Some 10 years ago I started to research all Commonwealth heroes who are buried in and near Geel, Belgium (more than 500) Most of them died during a forgotten batle, the liberation of Geel (between the Albert Canal and the Escaut Canal). Sometimes I guide schools and people on these military cemeteries. I talk about my research, the book I wrote about it and the story of individual soldiers. Anyway, the question I received the most is…”who is the highest ranking officer buried here”… I knew his name: Lt Col Gibson J T, servicenumber 27977 from 1/5th Welch, but sadly nothing more. So I started my search for this man (his relatives) and a picture to show the people but sadly without any direct results. (not in books and not even the Royal Welsh Museum at Brecon, South Wales has one) However I was able to receive some newsarticles and more information about the man from a helpfull source: GIBSON. Lt Col, Commanding officer, Jack Tremayne, 27977, D.S.O. 1/5th Bn The Welch Regt, 158th Inf Brig died 20th September 1944, age 41, "Market Garden Op" in the canal crossing area action, he was killed by a sniper. Son of Surgeon Capt George Gibson R.N. & Mary Elizabeth Tremayne Gibson, husband of Jean Gibson of Newcastle, Monmouthshire. (Actually the man was severly injured by the sniper and he was brought to Geel to a ADS which was established in the local mental hospital. Sadly he died of his wounds that same day.) Now I'm looking for a picture. Since he was such a high ranking officer, I assume there just has to be a group picture with him on it. Does anyone can help me with this? Thanks in advance!
Not got an image of the bloke but have attached description of the DSO award, also provides various details which might help others track down an image:
