McGIBBON , George Woodrow (G W)

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One thing I do wish to record, however, painful though it is, is an eye ? witness account of dear old Woodrow?s brave end. He was, unknown to me in action about a mile or so away from our own gun position, after returning from a ?Jack Column?, on the morning of June 28th , 1942. His battery made a stand against the furious and vicious onslaught of the Germans against the Western Perimeter. Hundreds of tanks supported by Stukas forced an entry and Woodrow?s battery came in for much of the initial strafing. He, together with three signallers, was in a dugout in rear of the guns and from there he was conducting the shooting which was indirect firing from an observation post. There was no stopping the powerful thrust and when Woodrow saw the tanks approaching he sent down his last orders and at the same time his last words. ?Okay Boys, here they come. Gun control. Give it stick?. This order meant that the shooting from then onward had to be open sights controlled by the sergeant of each gun. This was just at midday. No sooner had he sent this order to the guns then a shell burst directly in the dugout and Woodrow and two of the signallers were killed instantly. I have forgotten the name of the man who told me the tragic story. He also told me that Woodrow was held in high esteem by his brother Officers, and really loved by the men. I can quite believe it. He was a stout fellow and we honour his memory.

I dedicate my brave Uncle who I am named after, who gave his life so we could have freedom.