Operation: Training

Date: 10th December 1941 (Wednesday)

Unit: No. 59 Operational Training Unit. 81 Group. Fighter Command

Type: Hurricane I

Serial: W9342

Code: -

Base: RAF Crosby-on-Eden, Cumberland

Location: Near Aspatria, Cumbria

Pilot: P/O. Alexander George Wicks NZ/411486 RNZAF Age 28. Killed

REASON FOR LOSS:

During air to sea air firing practice the weather rapidly deteriorated between 1500 and 1600. It seems that he entered a shallow dive through the mist in order to establish position.

Tragically flew into the ground and caught fire, killing the pilot.

Burial details:

/O. Alexander George Wicks. Carlisle Cemetery (Dalston Road). Ward 11. Sec. P. Grave 20. Born on the 08th April 1913 at Te Awamutu, North Island. A sheet metal worker for Alex Harvey and Sons, Auckland prior to service. Enlisted at Levin on the 02nd March 1941. Received his pilots badge and commission on the 25th April 1941. Joined 59 OTU on the 10th November 1941. Son of Norman and Caroline Wicks (née Bush) of Auckland, New Zealand. 152 flying hours logged.

Researched and dedicated to the relatives of this pilot with thanks to Jenifer Lemaire and to the extensive research by Errol Martyn and his publications: “For Your Tomorrow Vols. 1-3”, Auckland Library Heritage Collection, AWMM, Weekly News of New Zealand, other sources as quoted below: