A leather flying helmet and goggles worn by Air Gunner Flight Sgt Ernest Hill in the Second World War offer a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by airmen decades ago.
The lot includes a scrap book containing photos of the flight crews, bomber planes – and Ernest. A note by his photo says ‘Ashbourne’. We are not sure if he originated from the Derbyshire town but we do know he lived in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs.
His wartime contribution will never be forgotten thanks to another important addition to this collection, his flying log book.
It detail his manoeuvres between spring 1944 through to late 1945 and also lists ‘special exercises’. This would suggest some degree of confidentiality. One entry of note from March 24, 1945 mentions his involvement in Operation Varsity as part of 295 Squadron.
To date, this is the largest airborne operation ever mounted. Acting as an air gunner, Ft/Sgt Hill would have taken up his position in a Stirling MK IV bomber aircraft as it towed a Horsa glider over the East Rhine in Germany.
295 Squadron consisted of 30 aircraft carrying 222 troops, vehicles and towed gliders. Some 29 aircraft managed to reach the drop zone with several hit by flak. One crashed from damage sustained, killing its pilot. Though ultimately a successful operation, the Glider Pilot Regiment suffered a casualty rate of over 20% killed or wounded. Nevertheless a stoical Ft/Sgt Hill recorded in his logbook that it was a ‘Good Trip!!!’.
The collection will be offered in Hansons’ March 28 Medals and Militaria Auction, estimate £300-£500.
To arrange a free militaria valuation email Matt Crowson: [email protected]
Matt hosts monthly valuation events at Hansons, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire. To book an appointment, call 01283 733988 or email [email protected].
