Corporal J. D. M. Pearson, GC, WAAF facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Corporal J. D. M. Pearson, GC, WAAF |
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| Artist | Laura Knight |
| Year | 1940 |
| Medium | Oil on canvas |
| Dimensions | 91.4 cm × 60.9 cm (36.0 in × 24.0 in) |
| Location | The Imperial War Museum, London |
Corporal J. D. M. Pearson, GC, WAAF is a powerful painting by English artist Laura Knight. She created it in 1940. This artwork honors Corporal Daphne Pearson. She was a brave woman who saved a pilot's life that same year. The painting is kept at the Imperial War Museum in London.
A Painting of a Hero
This painting tells the story of a real hero. It shows Corporal Daphne Pearson. She was a member of the WAAF. This group helped the Royal Air Force during World War II.
Who Was Daphne Pearson?
Daphne Pearson was serving in the WAAF. This was at the start of World War II. On May 31, 1940, a plane crashed. It was an Avro Anson aircraft. The crash happened in Detling, Kent.
Pearson quickly went to help. She helped the pilot get out of the plane. Suddenly, one of the plane's bombs exploded. Without thinking, Pearson threw herself over the pilot. This brave act protected him from the blast. Sadly, she could not save the other two crew members. They had already died.
Pearson was one of the first WAAF members to be honored. She received an award for her courage. First, it was the Empire Gallantry Medal. Later, it was replaced by the George Cross. This is a very high award for bravery.
How the Painting Was Made
Artist Laura Knight painted this portrait in 1940. She wanted to pay tribute to Pearson's heroism. Knight chose not to show the actual crash. Instead, she painted Pearson in a quiet countryside setting.
Pearson is shown seated and wearing her uniform. She looks up at the sky. Her expression seems hopeful or thoughtful. She is holding a respirator. This is a device used to help with breathing.
Knight first thought about painting Pearson with a rifle. But women in the WAAF were not allowed to carry weapons then. So, Knight changed it to a respirator. Pearson still holds it in a similar way to how she might have held a rifle. The painting captures her spirit and bravery.
