Photograph - RCAF pilot killed in action

Photograph - RCAF pilot killed in action

Code: P22873-175

Dimensions:

W: 28cm (11")H: 36.5cm (14.4")

SOLD

Framed and glazed reprint photograph of RCAF pilot Warrant Officer (then Sergeant) Donald Burton McPhail, R/67887, born on August 20th 1917 in Windsor, Ontario. At 13.10 on December 7th 1942, eight Whirlwind fighters of 263 Squadron took off from Warmwell on a low level anti-shipping strike. An enemy convoy was sighted south-west of Jersey lying just off St Brelade Bay and they attacked two vessels of 800 and 500 tons. Two aircraft were damaged by the intense flak encountered and S/Ldr. R.S Woodward made a controlled landing 400 yards from the nearest vessel but was subsequently declared lost. Unfortunately McPhail's aircraft disappeared straight into the sea. A memorial plaque to both pilots was erected at Noirmont, in remembrance of these brave airman who lost their lives. It was placed on the side of a former German bunker overlooking the exact spot where their aircraft crashed.  McPhail is also remembered on panel 101 at the Runnymede memorial.  

The frame is approximately 28 x 37cm and the good quality image shows McPhail in his Suits Aircrew blouse, 1941 pattern 'Flap Type' Mae West marked 'DON' to right lobe and first pattern Nuffield 'escape' boots.  The photo also comes with three 6 x 4" photos of the German bunker and memorial plaque.  Stock code P22873-175.