3. The messengers

During World War II, Gustav was one of the few messengers given to Reuters and one of the birds belonging to the Royal Air Force.

In June 1944, Gustav was the messenger which delivered the news and details about the D-Day landings. The historic event took place in Normandy, and so Gustav had to fly from France back to Portsmouth.

He flew for over 5 hours, more than 200 km, to deliver the following message: ,,First assault troops landed 0750. Signal says no interference from enemy gunfire on beach…Steaming steadily in formation. Lightnings, typhoons, fortresses crossing since 0545. No enemy aircraft seen”.

A few months later the pigeon was awarded the Dickin Medal.