Sydney Philip Smith DSO

[thedawnpatrol]

I recently came across an article recording the sale of Smiths Trio, in 2016.

i happen to have his Death Plaque and some paperwork, it would be nice to put these items back together……..

does anyone know who bought his medals by any chance ?
 

[seaJane]

Might be worth asking the auctioneers to pass a message - they have done similar occasionally for me when I found I had a photograph of a medal wearer.

[Starlight]

This may not help you with your query but your post has helped me solve a problem that has been outstanding for years - that of where, how and when Lt Arthur Phillippo of 6 Squadron died after being shot down on the 7th June 1917 with his observer Frank Durkin. The second letter in your post, written by Frank Durkin and addressed to an old buddy from 6 Squadron, Phil Smith, describes that event in detail (albeit 7 months after the event). The account includes the way Durkin attempted to land the RE8 by using the rudimentary controls in the rear cockpit after he realised that Phillippo was incapacitated. He also tells that Phillippo survived the crash and spoke to Durkin before he was taken away to another dressing station where he had his left leg amputated and subsequently died. Though we don't know precisely where or when Phillippo died,the letter is proof that he did survive the crash, managed to speak to Durkin but later succumbed to his injuries after Durkin was taken away as a prisoner of war. In my research experience over the past twenty years, It is amazing as to how many old questions are answered by sheer coincidence. Thanks for your help!

[thedawnpatrol]

thats really interesting Starlight, glad to be of help