Description:

(1917-1981) British pilot of Lancaster ED936/G AJ-H of 617 Squadron on the Dambusters Raid, 16th May 1943. Rice’s Lancaster crashed following its crossing the Channel. On December 20, 1943, he would be shot down by flak over Belgium, losing his entire crew but miraculously surviving when thrown clear from the wreckage. Held as a P.O.W. at Stalag Luft III. Rare war-date A.L.S. “Geoff” with “F/LT G. RICE” in return address, 1p. 4to., a folding German P.O.W. letter sheet from Stalag Luft III, Nov. 6, 1944, to “My Dear Old Dad & Anne”, in pencil. Rice states that he was pleased to receive a letter and know everything is well at home, also inquiring: “You have not mentioned yet whether my uniform & belongings have been sent home. Will be interested to know. Particularly my photos, letters & telegrams etc. & my suitcases & wallet. I had about £5 in that I think, but other contents more important!... Since my first request for a parcel I have changed my mind a bit. If you can send anything, pyjamas, socks, a blanket, razor blades, toothpaste & soap & a scarf are really the most important. Also please include some DFC ribbon with wings…We hear there is an all round increase in pay. Would you see bank for me & see if it is coming through alright…Merry Christmas to everyone. Have one for me!...” Very good. After his crash, Rice spent five months on the run, with the aid of the Resistance, but was betrayed to the Gestapo and taken prisoner. The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) ribbon and wings which Rice requests were awarded to him in November 1943, the citation singling out his efforts during the raid on the Dortmund-Ems canal and praising his “great determination and courage”.


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July 30, 2019 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000