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Auction: 24003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 76

India General Service 1908-35, 2 clasps, Waziristan 1921-24, North West Frontier 1930-31 (F/O. G. W. Gay. R.A.F.) very fine

George William Gay was educated at Westminster School and trained as a Flight Cadet at Cranwell between 1920-21. His flying career was brushed with several incidents. On 30 May 1922, whilst as a Passenger flying out of Old Sarum he was uninjured during an aero accident. The nature of the accident was noted as 'obscure', with possibly engine failure on endeavour to open out after a faulty attempt at landing.

Gay then saw service with No. 31 Squadron based at Ambala, India, flying Bristol Fighters. The Squadron helped police the Waziristan and Afghanistan regions as well as supporting the British Army in putting down any rebellions. On 1 July 1924, Gay landed his aircraft after a practice artillery shoot and his aircraft struck a small tree on the edge of the aerodrome. He suffered a wound to the chin but no Court of Inquiry was called. On 19 November 1924, he was taxiing his B.F.2.B. when the undercarriage collapsed, the Court of Inquiry found in favour of mechanical error.

During his time in India in June 1925, Gay was badly injured during night flying practice. He was promoted Flight Lieutenant (General Duties) on 1 January 1932 and returned to England after serving on the North West Frontier. Stationed at Hornchurch from 29 June 1935, promoted Squadron Leader on 1 January 1939 (General Duties) and retired in that rank on 26 September 1946.

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Estimate
£250 to £300

Starting price
£200