Guy Gibson and 617 Squadron RAF - the Dambusters

Guy Gibson was a British Royal Air Force (RAF) officer and pilot who played a significant role during World War II. He is most well-known for leading the famous "Dambusters" raid in 1943.

Guy Gibson memorabilia, particularly items associated with the famous Dambusters raid, is in demand among collectors and enthusiasts of World War II history. The Dambusters raid itself holds significant historical importance, and Guy Gibson's leadership and bravery during the mission have made him a celebrated figure.

A member of our Collexchange community has a well-preserved collection of items associated with Guy Gibson, including medals, photographs, letters. This member and is open to offers from militaria enthusiasts. See below some photos of this Guy Gibson collection. Contact Collexchange if you would like to be connected with the owner – email kate.atwell@collexchange.co.uk

Set of copy medals awarded to Wing Commander Guy Gibson with a picture of his fellow officers at Scampton

Photograph signed at the bottom by Guy Gibson

A full photo of the medals, photo and picture of Gibson

A picture of Wing Commander Guy Gibson and his crew

A signed letter from Gibson

The engraving on a silver plated cigar humidor presented to Gibson

A further close up of the inscription incorporating “The Great Dams Raid” May 1943

The open Humidor

The top of the Humidor

Wing Commander Guy Penrose Gibson, VC, DSO & Bar, DFC* (12 August 1918 – 19 September 1944) was a distinguished bomber pilot in the Royal Air Force.

Wing Commander Guy Gibson was a prominent figure in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II, best known for his leadership in Operation Chastise, also known as the Dambusters raid. This daring mission aimed to disrupt German industrial production by targeting key dams in the Ruhr Valley.

Guy Penrose Gibson was born on August 12, 1918, in Simla, British India (now Shimla, India). He joined the RAF in 1936 and quickly displayed exceptional flying skills. By 1943, Gibson had become a highly experienced pilot and was chosen to lead a specially formed squadron, No. 617 Squadron, which was tasked with developing and deploying Barnes Wallis's innovative bouncing bomb.

The bouncing bomb, officially known as the Upkeep bomb, was designed to bounce on the water surface and then sink before reaching the target. Its unique design allowed it to bypass enemy defences, such as torpedo nets and anti-submarine obstacles, which protected the targeted dams.

On the night of May 16-17, 1943, Gibson led a force of 19 Lancaster bombers from No. 617 Squadron in Operation Chastise. Their primary objective was to breach the Möhne and Eder dams, key components of the German industrial infrastructure. The dams provided water and hydroelectric power to the surrounding areas, and their destruction would significantly disrupt German production.

The raid required the utmost precision and skill. Flying at very low altitudes, the Lancasters approached the dams and released the bouncing bombs. The bombs had to be dropped from an exact height and distance to allow them to bounce over the water and hit the dam walls. The operation was carried out under intense anti-aircraft fire and searchlight illumination, making it even more perilous.

Despite encountering heavy resistance, Gibson's leadership and the bravery of his crews resulted in the successful breach of both the Möhne and Eder dams. The breach of the Möhne Dam caused extensive flooding in the surrounding area and disrupted German industrial operations. The Eder Dam also suffered significant damage, although it did not fully rupture.

Gibson and his squadron received widespread acclaim for their heroic actions during Operation Chastise. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for valor in the British Commonwealth, for his extraordinary leadership and determination. However, the success of the Dambusters raid came at a high cost, with eight aircraft lost and 53 crew members killed.

After the Dambusters raid, Gibson continued to serve in the RAF, taking on various operational and staff roles. Tragically, his life was cut short on September 19, 1944, when his Mosquito aircraft crashed in the Netherlands during a bombing mission. Gibson was posthumously promoted to the rank of Group Captain.

Operation Chastise, led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, remains one of the most celebrated and daring missions of World War II. The raid showcased the innovative spirit, courage, and determination of the RAF and became a symbol of British resilience in the face of adversity.

Collexchange is n auction website that simplifies trade between buyers and sellers of militaria. Our objective is to attract and connect militaria buyers with many trusted sellers, enabling the purchase of quality militaria – all on one easy to use website. Find out how it works here.

If you are interested in this Guy Gibson militaria collection please comment below or email kate.atwell@collexchange.co.uk