Another quick look at the Friston ORB this morning...
This must surely be one of the most bizarre entries in any RAF ORB...
7th July 1942.
At 07.55 hours a tank which had arrived on the aerodrome to demonstrate a new method of exploding a minefield was being serviced near the cliff edge when it got out of control and crashed 130 feet over the cliff into the sea below. The occupant of the tank, Signalman GARDNER, 2372889, of the ROYAL TANK CORPS, sustained multiple injuries despite gallant rescue work and a blood transfusion in the Medical Crash Room on the Aerodrome prior to removal to the local hospital. In the afternoon, both Squadrons departed having been suddenly ordered to return to their home bases in the morning. This totally unexpected move caused great disappointment and left the Station strangely quiet.
From CWGC -probably thought he had a cushy posting near his home
GARDNER, AYLWYN GEOFFREY
Initials: A G
Nationality: United Kingdom
Rank: Signalman
Regiment/Service: Royal Corps of Signals
Unit Text: 11th Armd. Div. Sigs.
Age: 34
Date of Death: 07/07/1942
Service No: 2372899