HIGH REPUTATION

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20087, 6 November 1939, Page 11

HIGH REPUTATION

NEW ZEALAND AIRMEN

OPINION IN BRITAIN

TWO INSTRUCTORS ARRIVE

(For Press Association.)

AUCKLAND, this day.

Two officers of the Royal Air Force have arrived at Auckland from England. Squadron Leader B. S. Niclioll, a New Zealander, has been transferred to the Dominion for the training of New Zealand airmen and Flying Officer C. A. Pope, who has been appointed for two years’ duty in New Zealand as engineer. The latter will go to Blenheim. Squadron Loader Nicholl was born in Christchurch and previously was a reporter on the New Zealand Times’ staff, Wellington. He went to England 10 years ago and after six months’ wait joined the Royal Air Force. He has had wide experience as a pilot and instructor.

Flying Officer Pope lias been 23 years in the Royal Air Force. He served in the last war and has a high regard for New Zealand trainees. Squadron-Leader Nicholl said that a number of New Zealanders had passed through his hands in Shropshire, where there was one of the largest English flying schools.

“The New Zealand boys have a reputation for reliability and initiative,” he said. “Every commanding officer thinks a lot of New Zealand material. A number of them already have been over Germany and have acquitted themselves with great credit. Before I left, a New Zealand lad asked me to tell his father he had made good. I am glad to comply with the request.’’