I'm a volunteer at the Regimental Museum, and a few weeks ago I spoke to a Malaya veteran who'd seen Pte McGibbon's name on the memorial plaque and told me about how he'd died. I was hoping someone here might be able to corroborate his account, and if it isn't already, record it for posterity.
The gentleman said McGibbon was involved in a road accident where the truck he was sitting in rolled over, and his rifle, which he was holding upright between his legs, was forced into his eye. He said that McGibbon was carried out of the truck, but died shortly afterwards.
Note: On reflection I've edited the above a little in the light of George's comment below about the full details having "been revealed to the N.O.K. but not necessarily for general knowledge"
Foolishly, I didn't give the gentleman in question a leaflet advertising our oral history project, and he left. I've no idea who he was.
So, my questions are: Was the gentleman correct? Is this what happened to Private McGibbon? And if so, is this knowledge recorded anywhere so that it won't be lost?
With the Malaya Veterans Association annual reunion coming up, this seemed like a good time to try and find an answer.
Many thanks.
