Guy Gibson, VC (1918–1944)

© the artist's estate. Image credit: Penlee House Gallery & Museum

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Notes

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Guy Gibson joined the Royal Air Force in 1936 and by the outbreak of World War II had become a bomber with 83 Squadron. He won the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1940 on Bomber Command's first raid of the war and transferred to Fighter Command. At the age of 23, he was promoted to the rank of Wing Commander, being posted back to Bomber Command.

In May 1943, Gibson was selected to carry out the highly dangerous Dambusters Raid, using the Barnes Wallis 'bouncing bomb'. For his role in this mission, Gibson was awarded the Victoria Cross.

It is thought that this painting was donated to West Cornwall School by Bouverie-Hoyton and that Guy Gibson was once a pupil there.

Penlee House Gallery & Museum

Penzance

Title

Guy Gibson, VC (1918–1944)

Date

c.1943–1988

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 61 x W 51 cm

Accession number

PEZPH : 1989.41

Acquisition method

commissioned by Penzance Borough Council c.1943–1988

Work type

Painting

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Penlee House Gallery & Museum

Morrab Road, Penzance, Cornwall TR18 4HE England

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