June 18, 2022

The challenges Gustav encountered during his journey were real and substantial. The climate that day was unfavorable for flying. A fierce headwind was blowing at 30 to 50 mph, making for stiff resistance. The sun was shrouded by clouds, a major issue for homing pigeons, as they use the sun to help find their way. German-trained hawks and sharpshooters were also in the area, searching for pigeons flying overhead. But Gustav rose to the occasion. Flying non-stop over 150 miles for 5 hours and 16 minutes, Gustav entered his loft on Thorney Island at 1:46 pm.

Officials immediately telephoned London with the news. This despatch was the first report received in Britain of the Normandy landings.