No. 214 (FMS) Squadron RAF - Personnel

PERSONNEL

G

To find the person that you want either scroll down the page or select them from the ranges shown below

Surname :

GALE, L C

Sgt Leslie Charles Gale, 1384752, Rear Gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 1 September 1943, Aged 21

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EE959 BU-E

Buried in BERLIN 1939-1945 WAR CEMETERY. Reference : Coll. grave 5. F. 24-29.

Son of Charles Hartley and Olive May Gale; husband of Doris Jane Gale, of East Finchley, Middlesex.

Adrian Lee's mother kept contact with Leslie's widow for quite along time after the war.

Source : Adrian Lee (son of Frank Lee) and Chorley and CWGC

Date record last updated : 27 November 2009

GALLAGHER, G B

Sgt G B Gallagher, Date taken POW 16 April 1943, POW number 1067

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III BK653 BU-A

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 1 - Barth, Germany
Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 6 - Heydekrug (Silute), Lithuania
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 357P - Thorn (Torun), Poland

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Sgt Gallagher was taken POW when Stirling BK653 BU-A, crashed in the village of Bonneuil les Eaux, Northern France on 16 April 1943

Source : Julien Saguez, French Researcher and Chorley and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 30 July 2011

GALLAGHER, J

John Gallagher

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Victor Mark I - 3 point tanker ??Barrell (Jul-1969)

Source : Nightjar Newsletter May 2013

Date record last updated : 25 January 2015

GALLAGHER, T N

FS Terence Noel Gallagher, 772724, Navigator, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 22 November 1945, Aged 20

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Liberator (model unknown) KL587

Buried in SUDA BAY WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 16. C. 19.

Son of Matthew Arnold and Eileen Emma Gallagher, of Kingston Hill, Surrey.

Source : CWGC and Jock Whitehouse

Date record last updated : 20 July 2011

GALLIENNE, W A

Flt/Lt William Anthony Gallienne AFM, Captain, 3132036, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom. KIA 19 August 1968 Age 36

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Victor K Mark I XH646

Named on the following Memorial : Armed Forces Memorial
Named on the following Memorial : Rolls of Honour, Church of St Clement Danes, London

Born 18 December 1931
Born in Limehouse, London.

Buried in MARHAM CEMETERY. Reference : Row 3. Grave 18.

Stationed at RAF Marham.

Jamie Gallienne would like to make contact with other family members and anybody else who has more information about his Uncle. Please contact the administrators and we will forward information to Jamie.

Source : Jock Whitehouse and Armed Forces Memorial and Ian Andrew and Jamie Gallienne (nephew of Flt/Lt William Anthony Gallienne)

Date record last updated : 28 October 2022

GALLOP, A C

WO A C Gallop, Pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EE899 (24-Jul-1943)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling (model unknown) EFG493 BU-?
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9289 BU-O

Source : Roy Tebbutt (Carpetbagger Aviation Museum, Harrington, UK) and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 10 March 2023

GAMBLE, R

Sgt R Gamble, Starboard Waist Gunner, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, Date taken POW 14 March 1945, POW number Unknown

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB772 (02-Nov-1944) BU-Q
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB799 (13-Mar-1945) BU-K
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB802 (14-Mar-1945) BU-O
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KJ110 (14-Jan-1945) BU-B

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

POW camp not known

Back in the UK on 9 May 1945

Source : "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock and Ian Hunt and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 18 April 2025

GAMBOLD, J

FS John 'Taff' Gambold, Signaller

Born 21 December 1922

Born in Abercrave, South Wales

Enlisted in the RAF on 7 October 1939. Re-enlisted in 1941 as a wireless operator. Trained initially with 272 Squadron, then 227 Squadron. Posted to Khartoum October 1944. Then to 230 OCU Scampton. After which he was posted to 148 Squadron, Upwood joining 214 Squadron on 18 September 1951 where he stayed until joining 7 Squadron on 7 January 1955. He finally joined 1426 Flight in January 1956. He flew Avro Lincolns at 214 Squadron serving in Kenya during the offensive against the Mau-Mau and until the Squadron was disbanded. He was a member of the first NCO crew to win the Laurence Minot bombing trophy with 7 Squadron. He remained in the RAF after his flying ended transferring to telecommunications serving in Rudloe Manor, Malta, Cyprus, Gan and the MOD, until retiring to civvy street 20 December 1968. After the RAF he worked for Honeywell Computers until his retirement.

Gambold_John_crew_photo_from_logbook

Crew photograph

Gambold_John_Avro_Lincoln_RE320.

Avro Lincoln RE320

Gambold_John_air_test_certificate

Air check certificate

Source : Dave Gambold (son of FS John Gambold)

Date record last updated : 28 February 2025

GARDENER, A

Al Gardener, Navigator, Royal Air Force

Buried in Mintlyn Crematorium, Kings Lynn

Husband of Florence Gardener

Al died in 2010 and his funeral took place on 10 December 2010.

Al was a navigator on the Victor on 214 in the early 70's. He had previously flown the Canberra and Valiant. He was heavily involved with the 2 V-Force reunions that have been held.

Source : John Gulliver

Date record last updated : 30 January 2011

GARNHAM, D W R

WO David William Roy Garnham LSGC, W1926687, Ground Crew, Royal Air Force, Nationality : British

Born 2 February 1937

Born in Lowestoft, England

Son of William Charles & Queeny Garnham. Husband of Irene Garnham.

214 Squadron. Valiant Tankers Marham.
214 Squadron OCU Victor Tankers. Marham.
TTTE Cottesmore as WO of Propulsion Flight Engine Test House
Tornado engine servicing until retirement in June 1983.

WO Garnham died on 4 September 2018 aged 81.

Source : Guy Kennedy and Colin Garnham (son)

Date record last updated : 26 April 2020

GARSIDE, T

AC1 Thomas Garside, 525315, Royal Air Force, KIA 29 April 1937, Aged 19

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Harrow (model unknown) K6950

Born in Leeds

Buried in St Nicholas Churchyard, Feltwell, Norfolk

Thomas Garside was from Pepper Street, Hunslet, Leeds

Peter Garside, family of Thomas writes :
This Monday just gone (November 2004) I drove up to Leeds and collected my aunt and took her to the grave at Feltwell. It is in the cemetery behind the small church next door to the Chequers pub in Feltwell. Two of the other crew are buried alongside.

Source : Jock Whitehouse and Peter Garside (relative of AC1 Thomas Garside) and Simon Glancey (researcher)

Date record last updated : 24 August 2018

GASPER

Plt/Off Gasper, Co-pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C X9758 BU-G

Source : Ian Hunt and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 29 March 2015

GASPER, C M

Plt/Off C M Gasper, Pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I N6092 BU-?

Involved in a crash whilst on a training flight.

Source : Chorley and John Jones (researcher)

Date record last updated : 17 May 2019

GATES, B O

FS Billy Orrin Gates, R/74829, Pilot, Royal Canadian Air Force, Nationality : American, KIA 15 April 1942, Aged 25

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C Z1148 BU-?

Buried in HEVERLEE WAR CEMETERY. Reference : Joint grave 3. E. 17-18.

Son of Basil Roy and Aletta Margaret Gates, of Loveland, Colorado, U.S.A.

Sgt Gates was an American from Loveland Colorado, serving with the RCAF

Source : Chorley and CWGC

Date record last updated : 28 February 2010

GATLAND, F E

from 1943 RNZAF Gazette

Gatland_Frank

Flt/Lt Frank Ellison Gatland DFM mid, NZ411970, Pilot, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Nationality : New Zealand, Date taken POW 28 November 1942, POW number 27404

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9194 BU-N

Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 344 - Lamsdorf (Lambinowice) Hospital, Germany - from 1943, was Stalag 8B
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 8B(G) - Lamsdorf (Lambinowice), Germany - until 1943 when it became Stalag 344
Imprisoned at POW camp Navy MM - Marlag-Milag Nord, Germany
Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 3 - Sagan (Zagan) and Belaria, Germany

Born 14 April 1917

Born in Onehunga, New Zealand

Son of Arthur raglan Gatland and Eliza Gatland

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

DFM awarded November 1942.

From London Gazette Issue 35791 published on the 17 November 1942.
"One night in October, 1942, Flight Sergeant Gatland was captain of an aircraft detailed to attack a target at Genoa. Heavy cloud obscured the target but despite this and opposing fire from the ground defences, Flight Sergeant Gatland courageously pressed home his attack from a low
level, while his gunners engaged the searchlights and gun emplacements. This airman, throughout his many operational sorties, has set a fine example by his determination, ability and devotion to duty."

Gatland_Frank_Ellison_DFM_citation

From November 1942 he spent the rest of the war in and out of POW camps before being repatriated in 1945 and returning to New Zealand :
Stalag VIIIB
Work Party E283 Stramburg (escape)
Work Party E585 Jaderndorf (escape)
Work Party Leobshutz (escape)
Stalag Luft III
Marlag-Milag Nord Camp

He spent the last 8 years of his life writing his memoirs, primarily for family interest. His son Arthur has now taken on the challenge of updating his memoirs, particularly looking for more photographs.

Frank died in New Zealand ion 12 June 2007, aged 90.

In May 2013 a memorial service for the crew of Stirling R9194 was held in France, arranged by Herve Savary. Arthur Gatland, son of Frank Gatland, attended along with Cyril Penna, the last survivor of the crash.

Penna_Cyril_and_Herve_Savary_and_Arthur_Gatland

Penna_Cyril_and_Herve_Savary_and_Arthur_Gatland

From Left to Right Herve Savary, Cyril Penna and Arthur Gatland, son of New Zealand pilot Frank Gatland. May 2013

Arthur Gatland (son of Flt/Lt Frank Gatland) has written a book of Franks's war record. It is called ESCAPE The Best Sport Ever!. Click on the name to see a description in the Gift Shop.

Source : Arthur Gatland (son) and Capitaine Herve Savary (French Gendarmerie Officer) and Nightjar Newsletter and London Gazette and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 20 November 2020

GAUNT, D B

Plt/Off Daniel Buntin Gaunt DFC, 778553 / 80446, Air Gunner, Royal Air Force, Nationality : Canadian

Born 25 September 1920

Born in Pennant Creek, Saskatchewan, Canada

Left Canada 20 September 1937 to become a mining technician in Southern Rhodesia (the mine owner was a Quebec industrialist).
Applied to join "Rhodesian Wing of the RAF", although his acceptance was deferred and he apparently had trouble getting back to Canada.
Enlisted in RAF as an AC2 on 3 January 1941. Service number 778553.
Remustered from Aircraft Hand to Air Gunner under Training on 6 May 1941.
Trained as a gunner at Evanton, from 1 September to 12 October 1941.
Promoted LAC on 25 August 1941.
Confirmed as Air Gunner on 13 October 1941.
Joined 214 Squadron July 1942.
Commissioned 14 October 1942. Service number 80446.
Took a Gunnery Leader Course at Sutton Bridge, December 1942 to January 1943.
Promoted Flying Officer on 14 April 1943.

Distinguished Flying Cross with No.214 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette 15 June 1943.
AFRO 1338/43 dated 16 July 1943 states :
"Pilot Officer Gaunt is a rear gunner who has served in this squadron (214) since July 1942. His operational missions have included sorties against such heavily defended targets as Berlin, Hamburg, Turin and Genoa. He has experienced attacks by enemy night fighters on several occasions. They have invariably been beaten off or evaded successfully as the result of the skillful direction given by Pilot Officer Gaunt. He has always set an excellent example to other aircrews and much of his success as an air gunner has been due to the care and efficiency with which he prepares for operations."

Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 14 October 1943.
Injured 18 November 1943 when Halifax of No.192 Squadron overshot on landing; three others in crew killed.
He was rear gunner; missing (POW), 25 May 1944 on Special Duty mission, No.192 Squadron, to Aachen.
Was taken prisoner of war with 192 Squadron on 25 May 1944 he was Imprisoned at POW camp Dulag DL - Dulag Luft (Oberursel), Germany
Transferred to RCAF with effect from 24 November 1944. service number C97012.
Repatriated 6 August 1945 and released 16 October 1945.
On a form dated 26 July 1945 he stated he had flown two tours with Nos.214 and 192 Squadrons (30 and 18 missions respectively), June 1942 to 24 May 1944, totaling 280 operational hours.

Source : London Gazette and Unknown

Date record last updated : 23 May 2025

GEORGE, D O

Sgt Dennis Owen George, 1164451, Wireless Operator / Air Gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : British, KIA 2 April 1942, Aged 22

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C Z1156 (01-Apr-1942)

Buried in DURNBACH WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 2. F. 9.

Son of William Charles and Jane Louise George, of Brighton, Sussex.

Source : CWGC and Kerry R Martin (relative) and Chorley's "Bomber Command Losses" 1942 volume

Date record last updated : 3 October 2008

GIBB, G L

Sgt George Leash Gibb, 1559476, Air Gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 25 July 1943

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EE902 (25-Jul-1943) BU-P

Buried in BECKLINGEN WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 20. A. 12.

Source : CWGC and Chorley

Date record last updated : 22 August 2019

GIBBENS, G H P

WO/II G H P Gibbens, Royal Canadian Air Force, Nationality : Canadian, Date taken POW 25 August 1944, POW number 706

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB763 (25-Aug-1944) BU-T

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 7 - Bankau (Bakow), Poland

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 16 April 2021

GIBBNEY, R M

Sgt Raymond Mordue Gibbney, 1527965, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 14 May 1943, Aged 24

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9242 (14-May-1943) BU-O

Named on the following Memorial : Church of St Peter, Monkwearmouth BOR
Named on the following Memorial : RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL Panel 150

Son of Thomas Marshall Gibbney and Alice May Gibbney, of Wallsend, Northumberland.

Source : Chorley and CWGC and Simon Glancey

Date record last updated : 1 December 2017

GIBBONS

Sgt Gibbons, Front Gunner

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) N2802 (07-Sep-1941) BU-A
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C R1342 (09-Jul-1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) R3233 (14-Jul-1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) R3233 (17-Jul-1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) R3233 (20-Jul-1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) R3233 (23-Jul-1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) R3233 (25-Jul-1941)

Source : Lynn Mortimer (daughter of Flt/Lt John Valentine Swan) and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 28 February 2020

GIBBS, J A

Fg/Off Jack Arthur Gibbs, J/17248, Mid Upper Gunner, Royal Canadian Air Force, Nationality : Canadian, KIA 5 February 1945, Aged 29

Buried in HOTTON WAR CEMETERY. Reference : IV. B. 2.

Son of Edward Clement Gibbs and Florence May Gibbs; husband of Ceridwen Margaret Gibbs, of Penticton, British Columbia, Canada.

Fg/Off J A Gibbs RCAF completed a tour as a mid upper gunner with 214 Squadron starting in mid 1942.

Gibbs_Jack_Arthur_Group

Can anyone identify the names of the crew and the aircraft? They are marked from L-R as Jimmy, Tuck, Buck, Skipper, Eddie, JA (Jack) and Bill.

After his tour with 214 Squadron Jack taught at an Air Gunnery School and in 1944 he joined the Canadian 419 Lancaster Squadron. He was killed in action with this Squadron. The village of Hotton was the western limit of the great German counter offensive in the Ardennes in early 1945.

Source : Mark Gibbs (son) and CWGC

Date record last updated : 30 January 2011

GIBBS, J R

Sgt J R Gibbs

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9145 (07-Aug-1942) BU-K
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I W7584 (06-Aug-1942) BU-D

Source : 214 Squadron ORB and Richard Maddox (researcher)

Date record last updated : 31 March 2023

GIBLIN, J A E

Sgt J A E Giblin, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, Date taken POW 31 August 1943, POW number 222698

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EE970 BU-B

Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 4B - Muhlberg am der Elbe, Germany

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Ian Hunt and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock and Chorley and Geoff Swallows (Australian Researcher)

Date record last updated : 31 January 2010

GIBSON, A W

Sgt Arnold Walker Gibson, 749389, Navigator, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 12 May 1941, Aged 26

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C R1462 BU-?

Named on the following Memorial : West Hartlepool Pillars
Named on the following Memorial : West Hartlepool St Paul's Church

Buried in HAMBURG CEMETERY. Reference : 5A. F. 1.

Son of Ernest and Laura Gibson, of West Hartlepool, Co. Durham.

Source : Christopher Jary - Author and Ian Hunt and CWGC and Simon Glancey

Date record last updated : 1 December 2017

GILBERT

Plt/Off Gilbert, Co-pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) N2778 (10-Feb-1941) BU-R
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) N2778 (14-Feb-1941) BU-R

Source : Ian Hunt

Date record last updated : 7 January 2010

GILBERT

Plt/Off Gilbert, Pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress (model unknown) ??Gilbert (21-May-1944) BU-H
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress (model unknown) ??Gilbert (24-Apr-1944) BU-H
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress (model unknown) ??Gilbert (08-May-1944) BU-?
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress (model unknown) ??Gilbert (22-Apr-1944) BU-F

Source : Donald Gilchrist

Date record last updated : 20 September 2008

GILBERT, C L

Sqn/Ldr Colin Leslie Gilbert, 39458, Royal Australian Air Force, Nationality : Australian, KIA 7 May 1942, Aged 24

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I L4269
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I L4365
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I N2529

Named on the following Memorial : Australian War Memorial Panel 12

Born 14 January 1918

Born in Maitland, South Australia

Buried in DURNBACH WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 2.G.4

Son of Elisabeth and Les Gilbert of Maitland, York Peninsular, South Australia

Colin served with 214 Squadron from 1937 through to 1940. During that time, while captaining a Harrow he had to order abandon ship at 11,000 feet, at night, over Pontefract; and had to belly-land a Wellington with damaged under-carriage. These were two of the four crashes he survived before succumbing to Flak over Mannheim in 1942, again in a Wellington but with 460 Squadron.

Colin's History :

Colin attended Maitland High School. Aged 15 in 1933 he enrolled at Prince Alfred College Adelaide.

In 1935 he was awarded a flying scholarship and was selected for training at No1 FTS at Point Cook. He trained in a DeHavilland Gypsy Moth and and a Westland Wapiti light bomber.
On 7 December 1936 he was awarded his wings and given the rank of Pilot Officer, aged only 18 years old.

On 7 January 1937 Colin was selected for Special Training with the British Royal Air Force. He sailed to England on the Royal Mail ship "Orford", arriving in Britain in February 1937.

Colin was granted a "short service" commisson as a Pilot Officer on 6 March 1937 and was posted to No3 FTS at RAF Spitalgate for assessment on the Avro Tutor.

Two weeks later on 20 March 1937 he was posted to No9 FTS at RAF Thornaby where he progressed to the Hawker Hart and the Hawker Audax.

On 30 June 1937 he was posted to 214 Squadron at Feltwell flying in a Handley Page Harrow, the largest land-based aircraft in RAF service at the time.

Colin was promoted to Flying Officer on 19 September 1938 and to Acting Flight Lieutenant on 7 July 1939.

On 27 August 1939 214 Squadron, equipped with Wellington bombers, moved to Methwold.

Colin's engagement to Daphne Corbett, the daughter of Captain Noel Corbett RN, was announced in the Adelaide Advertiser on 17th January 1940. Daphne's father was a Naval Officer of some standing. He was Officer Commanding 'A' Turret in H.M.S. 'Indomitable' at the Battle of Jutland in the First World War, and had been called back from retirement to serve in the Second World War as senior Royal Naval officer on the Faroe Islands (27 Nov 1941 to 25 Feb 1945).

Colin and Daphne were married in the Parish Church at Newmarket, Suffolk, on 20th April 1940.

On 13 February 1940 Colin was posted to Flying Duties with 99 Squadron at Mildenhall.

On 17 May 1940 Colin was posted to RAF Station Harwell for 'Flying Duties'.
No.15 OTU had been formed a month earlier, on April 8th, from No.3 Bomber Group Pool. Its function was to train night bomber crews using Wellington bombers. It would seem that Colin's experience and competence was to be employed in training bomber crews in the skills required for effective night bombing of enemy targets. Although a training unit, as part of their training crews carried out nickeling missions over France, and later even bombing raids over Germany.

On 21 September 1940 Colin was promoted to Flight Lieutenant and posted to 75 (NZ) Squadron from for flying duties.

Colin's Service Record records that from 14 February 1941 he was again posted to No.15 OTU for "Flying Duties."

13 June 1941 Colin was promoted from Flight Lieutenant to Acting Squadron Leader, thought to have been the youngest Squadron Leader in the Commonwealth forces at the time. Colin and Daphne's son, David, was born on this day.

On November 21 1941 Acting Squadron Leader C.L.Gilbert (Colin) was reportd having arrived at Molesworth from No.15 O.T.U. to be Flight Commander of 'A' Flight 460 Squadron R.A.A.F.

1942 December 4th-6th 460 Squadron moved to RAF Breighton. Colin's family moved to be nearby at 14 Tranby Avenue (official correspondence says Cranby Avenue in error), on the outskirts of York.

The official casualty records contain this information:

Date of Death : 7 May 1942
Aircraft Type: Wellington
Serial number: Z 1254
Radio call sign: UV L
Unit: 460 Sqn RAAF

For a full history of Colin's story please visit http://www.users.greenbee.net/~noelbaker/colin.htm

Source : Noel Baker and CWGC and Australian War Memorial

Date record last updated : 26 March 2021

GILBERT, J L

Flt/Lt John L Gilbert, Pilot

During the period April 1944 to May 1945 John was a fortress pilot and flew 25 ops. (actually "operational take-offs. Does not disregard aborted ops and early returns etc.)
He previously flew Stirlings with 214.

Source : Ian Hunt

Date record last updated : 30 November 2018

GILL, A H C

Sgt Adrian Harold Cooper Gill, 404024, Wireless Operator / Air Gunner, Royal New Zealand Air Force, KIA 17 August 1942, Aged 24

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I BF330 (17-Aug-1942) BU-H

Buried in MANBY (ST. MARY) CHURCHYARD. Reference : Grave 19.

Son of Theodore Gregory Cooper Gill and of Flora Gill (nee White), of Palmerston North, Wellington, New Zealand.

Source : CWGC and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 31 March 2023

GILLARD, K S

Sgt Kenneth Sidney Gillard, 751698, Air Gunner, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 23 June 1943, Aged 24

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EH882 BU-O

Buried in REICHSWALD FOREST WAR CEMETERY. Reference : Coll. grave 20. E. 1-3.

Son of Reginald Charles and Florence Annie Gillard, of Westcliffe-on-Sea, Essex; husband of Margaret Alice Gillard, of Rayleigh, Essex.

Source : CWGC and Chorley and Lesley Iles (historian of Southend School for Boys)

Date record last updated : 20 June 2010

GILLIES

Sgt Gillies

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) L7869 (14-Feb-1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) N2776 (09-Jan-1941) BU-G
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C R1447 (12-Mar-1941) BU-A

Source : 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 18 November 2022

GILLIES, H E Y

Sgt H E Y Gillies, Date taken POW 9 May 1941, POW number 25

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C R1447 BU-A

Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 357P - Thorn (Torun), Poland
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 18A - Wolfsberg / Spittal am der Drau, Austria

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Wim de Meester of The Netherlands and Chorley and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock and John Baines (Son of WO Harold Baines)

Date record last updated : 6 October 2019

GILLILAND, D C

Jnr/Tech Dennis Charles 'Gilly' Gilliland, 681577, Royal Air Force, Nationality : British

Born 6 April 1940

Born in Felixtowe

Source : Dennis Gilliland

Date record last updated : 13 July 2009

GILLIS, C M

FS C M Gillis, R/56399, Pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) ??Williams

Was part of an aircrew to be seconded to 15 OTU for 215 Squadron on 11 March 1942.

See Photo album 4 "The exodus of 214 Squadron to 215 Squadron".

Source : Colin Burningham

Date record last updated : 29 May 2010

GILPIN

FS 'Paddy' Gilpin, Mid Upper Gunner

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark II SR386 BU-N

Source : Gerhard Heilig

Date record last updated : 8 March 2008

GLASS, R R

Sqn/Ldr Robert Raymond 'Ray' Glass DFC, Pilot, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington (model unknown) ??Glass (1941)
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling (model unknown) ??Glass (1942/1943)

Ray Glass flew two tours with 214 Squadron. The first, on Wellingtons, when he flew as a Sgt Pilot from early 1941. The second, on Stirlings, he flew as a Flight Lieutenant in 1942-43, earning a DFC.

Ray Glass was best man at Sgt Ralph Reginald Shipley's marriage and Jonathan Shipley (grandson of Ralph) was in touch with Ray until his death, attended his funeral, and is still in touch with Ray's family.

Source : Christopher Jary, Author - Portrait Of A Bomber Pilot and Jonathan Shipley (grandson of Sgt Ralph Shipley)

Date record last updated : 27 June 2009

GLAZER, S

Sgt Sol Glazer, 40621, Navigator / Observer, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Nationality : New Zealand, KIA 13 March 1941, Aged 29

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C N2746 (13-Mar-1941) BU-M

Buried in GRONINGEN (ESSERVELD) GENERAL CEMETERY. Reference : Plot RP. Row Class 2. Coll. grave 26.

Son of Samuel Glazer and of Polly Glazer (nee Nissenbaum), of Wellington City, New Zealand.

Sol Glazer was from Wellington City, New Zealand. He was on his 5th mission when he died.

Steve McCready's grandmother was dating Sol in New Zealand, prior to his joining up and sailing to the UK at the outbreak of war.

Source : Stevin Oudshoorn and CWGC and Chorley and Ian Waters (son of Sgt Douglas Wilmott Waters) and Steve McCready

Date record last updated : 8 March 2019

GLEN, J E

LAC John Erskine Glen, R166646, Royal Canadian Air Force

Born in Shanghai China

Born in Shanghai China in 1920 and emigrated to Canada as a British citizen in 1927. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1942 and was discharged in the Autumn of 1945. In 1943 he was serving with 214 Squadron at RAF Downham Market in Norfolk. In 1944 he was at RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk. He was either a radio or radar technician. At some time during WW2 he was with 172 Squadron at Chivenor in Devon.

Source : Donna MacIver (Great Niece of LAC John Glen)

Date record last updated : 28 February 2025

GLENN, T D

FS Thomas Duke 'Tommy' Glenn, 1516790, Navigator, Royal Air Force, Nationality : British, Date taken POW 24 May 1944, POW number 18

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark II SR384 BU-A

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 7 - Bankau (Bakow), Poland
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 3A - Luckenwalde, Germany

Born 26 October 1922

Born in Retford, Nottinghamshire

Son of Cecil Thomas Glenn and Eva Glenn

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

CWGC states that Thomas was born in Newcastle upon Tyne. Family information states Retford Notts.

Thomas's aircraft was shot down 25th May 1944. He was handed over to the Germans on 27 May 1944.

From FS Tommy Glenn's POW diary held by his daughter-in-law Roz Glenn. On one page Tommy has written the following:
"In memoriam P/O Hockley, Alan James Noel [sic.] Our "Skipper" and pilot, who gave his life, so that we may live, remaining at the controls of the aircraft, thus allowing all but one of us to parachute to safety. He was a native of Sydney, Australia, aged 26, who was always tolerant, generous, sporting and certainly one of the best pilots in the RAF or RAAF."

After Tom's flight was shot down he was taken to Stalag Luft 7, Bankau, Germany (now Poland), in Jan 1945 they were all moved to Stalag 111A, Luckenwalde, Germany.

FS Glenn died in Newcastle upon Tyne in February 2000 aged 77.

Roz Glenn and family have now published a book called POW Wartime Log of F/Sgt T D Glenn. ISBN 978 0956373373

Source : Ryan Dudley (nephew of Allan Hockley) and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock and Roz Glenn (daughter-in-law of FS Thomas Glenn)

Date record last updated : 22 June 2014

GODFREY, N

FS Nelson 'Geoff' Godfrey, Navigator

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress (model unknown) ??Austin BU-O
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress (model unknown) ??Wynne

Geoff still remains undiscovered by Leslie Bostock, who is still searching for him. Can anyone help with information please?

Source : Leslie Bostock

Date record last updated : 27 October 2009

GOLDFINGER, Z

Sgt Zanwel Goldfinger, 1330847, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 24 May 1943, Aged 24

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III BF478 BU-G

Named on the following Memorial : RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL Panel 150

Son of Chajim Leib Goldfinger and Dewora Goldfinger, of Haifa, Israel.

Source : CWGC and Nightjar Newsletter Summer/Autumn 2003.

Date record last updated : 18 February 2008

GOLDSMID, P E

FS P E Goldsmid, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, Date taken POW 22 June 1943, POW number 318

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EH882 BU-O

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 6 - Heydekrug (Silute), Lithuania
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 357P - Thorn (Torun), Poland

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Chorley and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 20 June 2010

GOLDSON, A J

Sgt Allan James Goldson, 1246575, Port Waist Gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, Date taken POW 7 March 1945, POW number Unknown

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KJ106 BU-G

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

POW camp not known

Sgt Goldson was from Newcastle-on-Tyne.

Source : "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock and David Champion (researcher)

Date record last updated : 23 February 2018

GOODEY, S G

Sgt Stanley George Goodey, Air Gunner, Date taken POW 11 June 1942, POW number 39727

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9326 BU-G

Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 9C - Bad Sulza / Muhlhausen, Germany
Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 4 - Gross Tychow (Beninia?), Poland
Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 6 - Heydekrug (Silute), Lithuania

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

He was born in 1916 and initially joined 600 squadron aged 19. He joined 214 Squadron "Conversion flight" on 5 April 1942 when he transferred from 115 squadron.

The crew of R9326 were filmed as part of a Pathe News Gazette wartime film called 'Take it on the Chin' about the bombings raids over Germany, which they took part in. This can be viewed by visiting :
https://www.britishpathe.com/asset/81738/

When taken POW his leg was damaged, requiring surgery in a German hospital.

His son Richard Miller, was able to get in contact with Stanley and met him after a 50 year gap in 2007.
Sadly Stanley died around 8:00 pm on Monday 10th September 2007, aged 90, at the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead London. Please go to the following link to see a tribute from his son Julian Francis Miller :
http://www.elec.york.ac.uk/intsys/users/jfm7/Stanley%20George%20Goodey.htm

Source : Richard Miller and Julian Miller (sons) and Nightjar Newsletter Summer / Autumn 2004 and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 17 December 2010

GOODWIN, J

FS J Goodwin

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark II SR386 (07-Jul-1944) BU-N

Source : 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 28 March 2025

GORDON, A J

Sgt Albert John Gordon, 1376471, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 4 April 1943, Aged 29

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I W7621 (04-Apr-1943) BU-G

Named on the following Memorial : RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL Panel 151

Son of Albert Edward and Ellen Louise Gordon; husband of Gladys Amy Gordon, of Greenford, Middlesex.

Source : CWGC and Nils Hempel of Kiel Germany

Date record last updated : 24 March 2009

GOSLING

'Taffy' Gosling, Rear Gunner

He was a regular crew member with Frank Gatland

Source : Arthur Gatland

Date record last updated : 10 January 2016

GOSLING, G

FS G Gosling, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Date taken POW 24 July 1943, POW number 83662

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EE902 (25-Jul-1943) BU-P

Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 4B - Muhlberg am der Elbe, Germany

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Chorley

Date record last updated : 22 August 2019

GOULDING, K J

FS K J Goulding

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KH999 (08-Mar-1945) BU-M
Source : 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 23 May 2025

GRAHAM, S T

GRAINGER, A B

Sgt A B Grainger, Navigator, Nationality : United Kingdom, Date taken POW 2 August 1943, POW number 222407

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EF409 BU-V

Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 4B - Muhlberg am der Elbe, Germany

On 2/3 August, 1943, at approximately 0200 hours orders were given to abandon the aircraft off Wilhemshaven. He alighted in the sea, a poor swimmer and wounded, near to his pilot Sgt McGarvey who, despite his own wounds, which rendered his legs almost useless, swam towards him. Searchlights were being played on them both as they tried to swim to the nearest shore position. When dawn broke they set course for a light vessel which could be seen in the distance. The tide was, however, carrying them- away from the vessel. Sgt Grainger was only just conscious and Sgt McGarvey, discarding his " Mae West," swam to the light vessel to obtain assistance. At 10.30 hours Sgt Grainger was rescued in an unconscious condition but recovered after artificial respiration had been applied. Warrant Officer McGarvey had assisted him for 8½ hours, eventually saving his life in most difficult and dangerous circumstances.

Source : London Gazette 14 August 1945

Date record last updated : 11 February 2008

GRAVESON, G S

FS G S Graveson, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, Date taken POW 22 June 1943, POW number 151

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III EH882 BU-O

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 6 - Heydekrug (Silute), Lithuania
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 357P - Thorn (Torun), Poland

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Chorley and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 20 November 2020

GRAY

Sgt Gray

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9319 (20-Jun-1942) BU-S

Date record last updated : 3 October 2010

GRAY, R G

Sgt R G Gray

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling (model unknown) BK800

Source : 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 15 January 2021

GRAY, R R

FS Robert Reid Gray, R/93121, Wireless Operator / Air Gunner, Royal Canadian Air Force, Nationality : Canadian, KIA 27 August 1942, Aged 22

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9155 (27-Aug-1942) BU-Q

Buried in REICHSWALD FOREST WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 28. H. 7.

Son of Robert & Jane Gray, of Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Source : Chorley and CWGC and Arthur Skone

Date record last updated : 31 March 2023

GREEN

FS Green, Flight Engineer

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark II ??Van Den Bok (Dec-1944) BU-C

Source : Roger Mills (son of John Tudor Mills)

Date record last updated : 16 May 2009

GREEN, E S

Sgt E S Green

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9145 (07-Aug-1942) BU-K
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I W7584 (06-Aug-1942) BU-D

Source : 214 Squadron ORB and Richard Maddox (researcher)

Date record last updated : 31 March 2023

GREEN, I J

Sgt Ivan John Green, 1154443, Wireless Operator / Air Gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 21 September 1941

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark II W5452 BU-U

Buried in ROWLEY REGIS (ST. GILES) CHURCHYARD. Reference : Plot M.28 Grave 1554

Source : CWGC and Chorley and Mike Tallis

Date record last updated : 31 December 2014

GREEN, O W

Plt/Off Oliver William 'Ollie' Green, 183526, Special Operator, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 25 January 1947, Aged 22

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB817 BU-G
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KJ101 BU-H
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KJ114 (02-May-1945) BU-B

Buried in KIRKEE WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 9. C. 4.

Son of Joseph William Henry and Alice Green, of Whitchurch, Buckinghamshire.

As the Special Operator, Olly kept apart from the rest of the crew so they did not know him well.

Transferred to 84 Sqdn.after 1945

Source : CWGC and Ian Hunt and Alan Mercer

Date record last updated : 22 February 2009

GREENHALGH, E

Sgt Eric Greenhalgh, 1379905, Wireless Operator / Air Gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 27 March 1943

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I BF453 BU-L

Buried in HANOVER WAR CEMETERY. Reference : Coll. grave 10. B. 9-12.

Son of William and Elizabeth Ann Greenhalgh, of Astley Bridge, Bolton, Lancashire.

The following information was provided by Eric Matthews who has a family connection to Sgt Eric Greenhalgh :
"Eric volunteered in 1940. He was trained at Calne in Wiltshire in October 1940, Blackpool 1941, then later posted to Isle of Islay, then Lossiemouth. He pasted out as a W/O AG August 1942 and was then posted to Stradishall.
He came home on leave for his 21st birthday in January 1943. In February he was burned face and head during a raid and was allowed home to convalesce. During this time he attended my Aunts 21st Birthday, she was his fiance. He returned to Stradishall on 17 March 1943. She never saw him again. He was reported missing after a raid on Berlin. The crew of BF453, BU-L were all killed on the night of 27 March 1943.
I have the front page of the morning newspaper following the raid.which reads 'On the night of the 26/27 March 1943 a raid took place on Berlin involving 396 aircraft. 9 were lost, 4 Halifax, 3 Lancasters and 2 Stirlings."

Source : Eric Matthews (relative of Eric Greenhalgh) and Ian Hunt and CWGC

Date record last updated : 30 September 2020

GREER, S J

Sgt Samuel John Greer, 611098, Flight Engineer, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 26 July 1943, Aged 22

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III BK686 (26-Jul-1943) BU-C

Buried in REICHSWALD FOREST WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 6. C. 15.

Son of J. M. W. and Mary Greer, of Bloomfield, Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Sgt Greer's uncle states his role as Navigator, the CWGC states his role as Flight Engineer.

Source : CWGC and Jack Greer (nephew) and Ian Hunt

Date record last updated : 8 August 2009

GREGORY

Sgt Gregory

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB785 (Corke) BU-A

Source : Pilot Officer William Foskett

Date record last updated : 26 May 2009

GREGORY, A

Sgt A Gregory

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark II SR386 (07-Jul-1944) BU-N

Source : 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 28 March 2025

GREGORY, B

Flt/Lt Brian Gregory, 4066621, Adjutant

Named on the following Memorial : Rolls of Honour, Church of St Clement Danes, London

Born 10 June 1932

Born in Sheffield Yorkshire

Buried in ECCLESFIELD CEMETERY

Stationed at RAF Marham. Born in Sheffield Yorkshire. Killed in a motoring accident while on leave.

Died 28 July 1958 Age 26.

Source : Jock Whitehouse and Armed Forces Memorial

GRIGGS, F M

This was taken at RAF Stradishall on 29 June 1942. The proud young (only 20 years old at the time!) Australian pilot pointing to shrapnel damage to his Stirling Bomber Mark I N3751 is Sgt Frank Morton Griggs.
He was reprimanded by his CO for breaching the perimeter fence. This was the first of three "Wheels Up" landings he survived during WW2. The next two making sure he did NOT breach the perimeter fence. He and all crew were awarded a DFM for this heroic flight on 21 July 1942.

Flt/Lt Frank Morton Griggs DFM DFC, 400468, Pilot, Royal Australian Air Force, Nationality : Australian

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III N3751 BU-P

Named on the following Memorial : Australian War Memorial (Honours and Awards)

Born in Vinefera, Victoria, Australia

He was a farmer and a bank officer prior to enlisting on 14 December 1940.

Service Records of Sgt Frank Morton Griggs showing attachment to RAF 214 Squadron from 9 May 1942 until 24 August 1942.

Awarded the DFM on 21 July 1942 : Click on this link to see the entry in the London Gazette

3196 SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 21 JULY 1942
Award of the Distinguished Flying Medal

"Sergeant Griggs,was acting as captain. Displaying fine airmanship, and eventually flew his severely damaged aircraft safely back to base where he made a crash landing. Throughout the operation, these airmen displayed unflinching courage, great fortitude and splendid team work in foiling the attacks of 5 enemy fighters, 3 of which were shot down. Their conduct upheld the highest traditions of the Royal Air Force."

From Sgt Arthur O'Hara's obituary :

"Griggs and O'Hara were commissioned and left No 214 Squadron to join No 109 Squadron, just as it was converting to the Mosquito and transferring to the Pathfinder Force.
No 109 was pioneering the new, and highly accurate, blind-bombing target-marking technique known as Oboe. Flying down a narrow radio beam directed towards the target by a ground-based emitter, the Mosquito dropped flares and markers over the target for the main bomber force. Griggs and O'Hara were one of the original six crews.
By early 1943 they had flown seven operations against heavily defended targets, and the early difficulties experienced with the unique system, which had been developed by the scientists at the Telecommunications Research Establishment at Malvern, had been resolved.
Griggs and O'Hara were the first to drop a new type of target-marker when they spearheaded the attack on Dusseldorf on January 27 1943, flying at 27,000 ft, where they were untroubled by the intense flak directed at the main bombers flying below them."

Frank went onto a distinguished flying career also receiving the DFC with 109 Squadron on 12 November 1943 and became a successful commercial pilot retiring in 1974. He recorded an audio tape of his flying career in 1995.

Awarded the DFC on 12 November 1943 : Click on this link to see the entry in the London Gazette

Source : 214 Squadron ORB and London Gazette and National Archives Air Records AIR/50/233/13 and John Sutton and Obituary of Sgt Arthur O'Hara and Australian War Memorial

Date record last updated : 26 March 2021

GRISWOLD, W E

Sgt William Edward Griswold, 654640, Wireless Operator, Royal Air Force, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 8 January 1941, Aged 22

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C T2956 BU-?

Buried in MAGHERAFELT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHYARD. Reference : Plot J. Grave 52.

Son of Edward and Mary Griswold, of Magherafelt.

Source : CWGC and Chorley

Date record last updated : 15 June 2018

GRONAU, W E

Fg/Off William Edward Gronau, J42571, Royal Canadian Air Force, Nationality : Canadian

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III HB779 (08-Feb-1945) BU-K
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KH999 (03-Mar-1945) BU-M
SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark III KH999 (08-Mar-1945) BU-M

Born 18 June 1924

Born in Ottawa, Canada

Son of Frederick Gronau and Marion (née Murphy)

Fg/Off Gronau died on 21 February 2010

Please click on this link to see the obituary of William Edward Gronau

Source : Ian Hunt and David Champion (researcher) and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 23 May 2025

GROVE, W G

Flt/Lt W G Grove, 146424, Pilot, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Nationality : United Kingdom, KIA 24 March 1944, Aged 24

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark III BK653 BU-A

Buried in RHEINBERG WAR CEMETERY. Reference : 11.E.16

Son of Robert Elvey Grove and Margaret Annie Grove, of Dunvant, Swansea.

Sgt Grove evaded capture on 16 April 1943 and was later commissioned. He was killed on an operation to Berlin, while flying with 15 Squadron.

Source : Julien Saguez, French Researcher and Chorley and CWGC

Date record last updated : 30 July 2011

GUILD

Plt/Off Guild, Pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C R1341 (14-Jul-1941)

On 14 July 1941 R1613, R1614, R1341 and T2918 took off from Stradishall at 23:15hrs on a mission to Bremen.

Of the four aircraft sent by 214 Squadron this night, two returned to base which ultimately saved them from the disaster that lay ahead. R1341 piloted by Pilot Officer Guild returned claiming that bad weather and icing conditions would not let aircraft climb. Furthest point reached was 58-30 to 320.

Source : Ian Hunt and 214 Squadron ORB

Date record last updated : 31 August 2020

GULLICK, R F

FS R F Gullick, Date taken POW 13 May 1943, POW number 155

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Stirling Mark I R9242 (14-May-1943) BU-O

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 6 - Heydekrug (Silute), Lithuania
Imprisoned at POW camp Stalag 357P - Thorn (Torun), Poland

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Chorley and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock

Date record last updated : 20 November 2020

GULLIVER, J

Flt/Lt John 'Gulli' Gulliver, 8024813H, Navigator / Plotter, Royal Air Force, Nationality : British

Born 30 March 1948

Born in London

Flew Victor K Mark I B1A2P aircraft.

John is a member of the 214 Squadron Association Committee.

Source : John Gulliver

Date record last updated : 18 June 2008

GUNDY, R Y

FS Robert Yewen 'Bob' Gundy, Bomb Aimer, Nationality : New Zealand, Date taken POW 24 May 1944, POW number 23

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Flying Fortress Mark II SR384 BU-A

Imprisoned at POW camp Luft 7 - Bankau (Bakow), Poland

Born 2 May 1920

Born in Pukekohe, South Auckland, New Zealand

SEE PRISONERS OF WAR

Source : Ryan Dudley (nephew of Allan Hockley) and "Footprints on the sands of time" by Oliver Clutton-Brock and Roz Glenn (daughter-in-law of FS Thomas Glenn)

Date record last updated : 28 February 2010

GUNTON

'Dickie' Gunton, Engineers' Leader

See WO Roland Williams personnel entry for a mention of Dickie Gunton.

Source : Catherine Sommer (daughter of Roland Williams)

Date record last updated : 4 August 2009

GURNEY, J

John 'Dan' Gurney, Co-pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Victor K Mark I ??Rudin

John was a Victor Co-Pilot with 214 Squadron and a Victor Captain with 57 Squadron.

Sadly he died on 15 March 2015

David 'Tug' Wilson writes :
'Dan was married to the beautiful Angela and very sadly they did not quite make their Golden Wedding Aniversary due to Dans death earlier this year.

Dan left 214 1971 to become a Captain on , I think ,55.

After leaving 55 Dan went on to a successful civilian flying career with Laker,Dan Air & British Midland.

Dan & Angela lived at Kemble,Cirencester and we attended a couple of reunions.

Bev & I went to Dans funeral and the church was packed with friends and ex colleagues.'

Source : Nightjar Newsletter February 2016 and John Gulliver and David 'Tug' Wilson

Date record last updated : 1 December 2017

GWILLIAM

Sgt Gwilliam, Pilot

SEE CREWS AND LOSSES for Wellington Mark I C T2918 (14-Jul-1941)

On 14 July 1941 R1613, R1614, R1341 and T2913 took off from Stradishall at 23:15hrs on a mission to Bremen.

Of the four aircraft sent by 214 Squadron this night, two returned to base which ultimately saved them from the disaster that lay ahead. T2913 piloted by Sgt Gwilliam returned claiming engine trouble.

Source : Ian Hunt

Date record last updated : 9 January 2017

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