Gibbs Made History Today
Joyce Gibbs (George's wife) and Leilani Henry (daughter)
A few months ago, I found another document that speaks of today's historical event. One of his ship mates wrote on January 14, 1940, George W. Gibbs, Jr. was the first Negro in Antarctica. It's exciting to find more evidence of personal connections aboard the USS Bear.
Today is the 75th anniversary!
The Prime Meridian in Antarctica is less than 500 miles/900 kilometers east from where the crew of the USS Bear docked for the first time, on the Ross Ice Shelf.
A few weeks ago, my mother and I stood on the Prime Meridian in Greenwich Park, London.
How cool is that? Thanks to our hosts Vicky Thomas and David Hall.
75 Years Ago-The U.S.S. Bear Set Sail
-courtesy of Leilani Henry files. Picture on USS Bear, near Antarctic circle January 1940.
There are many remembrances for this day. It's 50 years since the assassination of JFK.
I celebrate Hannah Claire, who turns 20.
The biggest day of my father's life happened on this day. He set sail for Antarctica and magnetic South Pole. His diary says on Nov. 22, 1939, "75 huskies howling day and night". Later on the trip, his autograph book is signed by Admiral Byrd.
To George W. Gibbs, Jr,
"Best wishes to one who has done so much to make our cruise more comfortable and pleasant"
- RE Byrd