RAAF 1925 - 1942

Bob learned to fly when he joined the Royal Australian Air Force in December 1925.  He joined 3 Squadron as a Pilot Officer in April 1926 on the reserve list. While he was flying commercially he maintained his training in the reserves and when he was called up to the active list in September 1939 he was a Flight Lieutenant.

11 Squadron was formed with two Qantas "C" class Empire flying boats and operated out of Port Moresby undertaking seaward reconnaissance in defence of trade routes and Australian shipping. The squadron was re-equipped with PBY Catalina's.  Bob was promoted to Squadron Leader in January 1941 and on 18 April 1941 he piloted a PBY on the first direct flight from Sydney to Noumea

Bob carried out many missions of maritime surveillance to New Britain, the Solomon Islands and New Hebrides with 11 Squadron and was made temporary Commanding Officer before his return to Qantas in October 1941.

 He was recalled to active service in March 1942 and was made Commanding Officer of 33 Squadron based at Townsville on 8 March 1942.

22nd Bomb Group USAAF

In February 1942 the 22nd Bombardment Group USAAF, equipped with Martin B26 Marauders,  left the United States and made their base at Townsville.  On 5 April 1942 the 22nd launched its first combat strike against Rabaul.  Bob's intimate knowledge of the flying conditions and geography around New Guinea made him a natural choice to fly with the Americans.

 On 2 May 1942 he was co-pilot in B26 40-1426 of the 19th squadron piloted by 2nd Lt Christian I. Herron which was damaged during an attack on Rabaul. The plane was forced down on South Kiriwina in the Trobriand Islands between Rabaul and New Guinea.  During the landing in the swampy ground the plane flipped over onto its back and Bob and Christian Herron were killed.  The other 5 crew survived and were rescued.

In Bob's honour the No.1 strip at Milne Bay, in August 1942 the site of the first defeat of the Japanese army in World War II, was named after him and is still operating today as Gurney Airport.

Bob is buried at Bomana War Cemetery, Port Moresby. Plot A3, Row D, Grave 14.

Christian Herron is buried at Manilla American Cemetery, Philippines. Plot A, Row 12, Grave 203.

LEST WE FORGET