RAF (Glider) Pilot Grouping – Named to Pilot James Henry Grant DEAS

Original WWII RAF (Glider) Pilot grouping named to Pilot James Henry Grant DEAS (1573100). Born on 16 November 1923 and attested on 21 September 1942, Deas underwent flight training in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and also in the United Kingdom. During his service he flew a variety of aircraft, including the famous Horsa glider. We have not conducted any further research since acquiring the grouping, and therefore cannot confirm whether he took part in Operation Varsity in 1945, leaving interesting research potential for the next owner.

The grouping is centered around an original 2nd pattern Denison Smock, 1944 dated, size 2, which remains in very good condition. There is clear evidence that one of his RAF pilot wings was once sewn onto the smock, although this is difficult to show clearly in photographs (see the Denison book page 92). The only issue worth mentioning is that the zipper does not close correctly and the runner requires some attention. The right arm displays the Staff Sergeant rank insignia, with the correct King’s crown.

Also included is a large collection of original paperwork and personal effects consisting of his wartime logbook, service and release books, a photograph album from his training in Canada, additional original photographs, summer flying glasses with their leather holder named with his service number, a Horsa Mk I Glider Instruction Book, and various other related documents.

An exceptionally interesting and largely untouched RAF pilot grouping with excellent display value and considerable research potential.