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Pigeons, recruited into the RAF as a valuable means of communication often become war
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Pigeons, recruited into the RAF as a valuable means of communication often become war
Pigeons, recruited into the RAF as a valuable means of communication often become war casualties. In many cases they are shot at by farmers who mistake them for pests. In this picture Flight Lieutenant Arthur H. Lancaster of Weybridge, Surrey, extracts a pellet from a bird which had landed at a Halifax bomber station in Yorkshire after bringing back news which resulted in the air/sea rescue of a bomber crew. The bird was shot at over home territory, but flew on to its homing base, and has now recovered from its injuries. The nursing orderly is Corporal W.H. Thomas of Birmingham, formerly a blacksmith. Picture issued May 1945
Official
Reach PLC
Mirrorpix
Yorkshire
England
Media ID 21904983
© Mirrorpix
Armed Forces Birds Communications Injured Pigeon Royal Air Force Shot Wounded
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this poignant print from the 1940s, we witness the remarkable contribution of pigeons to the Royal Air Force during World War II. These feathered heroes were recruited as invaluable messengers, braving enemy fire and perilous skies to deliver crucial information. However, their bravery came at a cost. Flight Lieutenant Arthur H. Lancaster of Weybridge, Surrey is captured in this image delicately extracting a pellet from a wounded pigeon that had landed at a Halifax bomber station in Yorkshire. This brave bird had successfully completed its mission, bringing back news that led to the successful air/sea rescue of an endangered bomber crew. Shot at by farmers who mistook them for pests over home territory, these innocent creatures often became casualties of war. The compassionate nursing orderly Corporal W. H. Thomas of Birmingham can be seen assisting Flight Lieutenant Lancaster in providing care for the injured pigeon. Formerly a blacksmith, his gentle touch reflects both his dedication to duty and respect for all lives affected by conflict. This powerful photograph serves as a reminder not only of the sacrifices made by humans during wartime but also highlights the unsung heroes among our animal companions who played vital roles on battlefields too often forgotten or overlooked. Issued in May 1945, this picture stands as testament to courage and compassion amidst chaos—a symbol of hope even amidst dark times—capturing an extraordinary moment where humanity intersects with nature's resilience against adversity.
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