Philip was born on 14 April 1905 in San Mateo, California to Philip and May nee Hyman. His father died in 1907 when Philip was two years old and his mother died in 1930. Philip’s wealthy aunt, Lady Henriette nee Meyer and her husband Sir Mortimer Barnett Davis who resided in Canada adopted him and he then used the surname Davis. Philip and his cousin Mortimer studied at school in England and returned to Quebec in 1929. Philip returned to England in 1933 and worked as a solicitors articled clerk. Later that year Philip enlisted into the RAF.

Philip was onboard Hudson III V8983 which flew into a wooded hillside after descending to establish its position at Bordon Wood, Wendover, Bucks killing all the crew.

Pilot, Raymond Cook, 64275
John Forbes Andre Day, 02113
W/Op, Arthur George Hudd, 637393
Nav, Walter John Morbin, 1179044