Major Edward "Mick" Mannock

Thank you, Robert. My recall was faulty as the only images I could bring to mind were ones of him with a pipe. However, that does not remove question marks that may well still remain with the lot being sold.

As far as I know Mannock only ever smoked a pipe

The chances of naming him are slim and the only realistic hope is a headstone marked “Believed To Be” which is an accepted CWGC headstone in cases where identification is not absolute. Currently, the MOD have closed the door on that option although a recent fourteen page report from them has recently been viewed by me and I am in the process of formulating a response. The report, and conclusions, contain a number of factual errors, failure to understand certain key or salient points and it does not take into account more recently available information.

Watch this space…..!

As for the auction items. Hmmm.

As far as I know Mannock only ever smoked a pipe and the engraving looks suspiciously as if it is machine engraved. One wonders about the provenance, since they do not seem to have been in the families possesion at any time. On the other hand, it is noted that the description does not actually say that they belonged to the great man, nor that they are attributed to him. However, the inference that might well be taken by potential buyers is that they were his property. More importantly, when Mannock went to 85 Squadron at St Omer he was also a DSO holder. It seems inconcievable that the engraving would only mention the MC !!

The programme about Mannock’s death was shown again this weekend. Is there any more hope that he might eventually lie in a named grave? I know many millions don’t and will never have the chance to be identified, but if it is possible………..

Cant say that i approve of the sale of such items unless they are definately to the benefit of the veteran or their family.

Missed the programme on the mystery around the death of Major Mannock last week, is it going to be re-shown some time?