F/O D Pickup 501 Squadron Battle of France

[gedburke3]

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

[Amrit1]

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

[gedburke3]

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

[Brian]

Hi Jerry

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

Cheers
Brian

[gedburke3]

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

[Brian]

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

[Amrit1]

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

[gedburke3]

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

[Andy Saunders]

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

[gedburke3]

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