Born in Jamaica in 1923, Gilbert was a bright pupil who was interested in electronics, and used his skills to fix household appliances and recharge batteries. In 1943 news came that volunteers were wanted for the RAF. Gilbert passed the entry tests and within a few days he was sent to Kingston Palisadoes RAF camp, where after being kitted out and receiving some basic training, they were sent on a troop-carrying ship to Britain via the United States. While at the camps Gilbert would undergo physical training, gun training, combat training, and attend classes to study mechanics and engineering. They were also taught to identify both Allied and Axis planes and ships.
Summary
Drilling, marching and taking orders
