Transcript
of a letter addressed to Geale's sister, Section
Officer , Miss Elizabeth B. Hewson from F/O B.P. Swingler, Geale's
Flight Commander.
F/O B.P. Swingler
J28137 RCAF
143 Wing
B.L.A.
Sept 19/44
Dear
Miss Hewson,
By
now, no doubt, you will have received word that your brother has been
reported missing and as one of "Hewie's" friends I thought I
should write and try to relieve your mind somewhat.
Being
in the Forces you know how little we can write about operations but I
will tell you what I can. I was right behind Hewie when we attacked a
rather strongly defended post and saw his aircraft hit and start to
stream smoke. He had no other choice but to bail out and made a very
nice job of it.
His
chute opened just before I reached him and as I passed he waived that he
was unhurt. None of us actually saw him land but there was no reason to believe
he did not make a good landing and with a bit of luck we all fully
expect to see him come into camp one of these days.
His
groundcrew, who I believe could not think more of a pilot than they did
of Hewie, were worried at first until we explained the situation to
them, now have settled down to some patient waiting and if I may suggest
you do the same.
Sincerely,
Babe
Swingler
All
Photos
courtesy of G.W. Hewson Copyright © 2005. All rights reserved.
Tiger
Squadron
