F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Hi all,
Until my copy of Battle of France arrives (on order birthday present!) could anybody tell me what became of Flying Officer D. Pickup. I know that he served in France with 501 Squadron, but would like to know if he was killed there or returned to the UK.
Many thanks in advance
Gerry

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Flying Officer Arthur Derek PICKUP (90030) resigns his commission. 26th Sept. 1940.

He is later mentioned in the LG:

To be Additional Officers of the Civil Division of the said Most Excellent Order of the British Empire :

1st January, 1946
Commander Arthur Derek PICKUP, Officer Commanding No. 5 (Training) Ferry Pool, Air Transport Auxiliary

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Thanks Amrit,
That was quick and much appreciated.
Many Thanks
Gerry

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Hi Jerry

A follow-up to Amrit's note - I believe he was a founder member of the ATA.

Cheers
Brian

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Thanks Brian,
I wonder why he resigned his Commission.
Was that as unusual a move as it sounds?
Gerry

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Hi Gerry

I believe Derek Pickup was older than average for a fighter pilot once war had started for real, and being an Auxiliary was able to relinquish his commission to take control of the ATA.

I don't believe one was able to resign one's commission under ordinary circumstances - others may know better - my only service to Queen and Country was via the Boy Scouts and Air Cadets!

Cheers
Brian

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

I don't know if this is the same person but the dates seem to fit, especially as Pickup was commissioned 11th May 1932.

http://shum.huji.ac.il/~dutchjew/gen...illing/918.htm

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Thanks to you all for your help.
I have a much better knowledge of his movements now.
Many thanks
Gerry

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Gerry

I recognise that name! Did you find it where I think you found it? I looked at it and knew it was familiar but couldn't place why.

Andy

Re: F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France
 

Hi Andy,
ha ha !!
Yes indeed you are 100% right.
I noticed it and thought that I would like to try and learn a bit about him. Seemed a shame not to give him a mention in the final display.
My book still hasn't arrived, birthday later this month. I do hope that Pickup gets a mention, if only brief. By the way some great Battle of France pictures in this months flypast magazine if you haven't got a copy.
Best wishes
Gerry