Tony and Bob with their Pickups for Peace vehicle
A Mission of Heart
If you’ve met Bob Ritchie it won’t come as a surprise that he has recently completed his seventh trip to Ukraine for charity Pickups for Peace. Known for his community spirit and people-focused approach, Bob has been a staunch supporter of this humanitarian initiative since its inception. This time, he was joined by Tony Walker, a long-time colleague at Ritchie. Together, they formed part of the 16th convoy of vehicles heading to Ukraine—an effort that embodies both generosity and grit.
You might wonder what motivates someone to drive thousands of miles into a conflict zone, bearing sole responsibility for delivering a vehicle in working condition. The journey is far from simple: from blown fuel tanks and flat tires to unpredictable weather and stringent border controls, challenges abound. Yet, against all odds, Bob and Tony have a story to tell.
What is Pickups for Peace?
Founded by a group of Scottish farmers with agribusinesses in Poland and Ukraine, Pickups for Peace was born out of a desire to support Ukraine following the 2022 invasion. Their connections with local officials led them to the **24th Engineering Brigade**, who identified a critical need for pickups.
Why pickups? In Soviet military doctrine, small, mobile units weren’t prioritized, leaving missions reliant on large, vulnerable vehicles. Pickups provide agility for reconnaissance, drone operations, and even casualty recovery, enabling safer and faster movements under enemy fire.
Each convoy is more than just a delivery of vehicles; it’s a lifeline. Alongside the pickups, convoys carry vital supplies, from spare tires and generators to medicine and winter clothing. These items support civilians, orphanages, and frontline troops alike, offering both practical aid and a morale boost in desperate times.
Tony and Bob’s October 2024 Pickups for Peace Journey
The October convoy consisted of:
- 33 vehicles, including an ambulance and several vans.
- 70 drivers from across the UK, Jersey, and Canada.
- A mix of donated and carefully prepped vehicles, ready for the challenges ahead.
Supplies Delivered:
- Humanitarian Aid: Winter clothing, medical supplies.
- Support for Orphanages: Calpol, toys, nappies, and even a sewing machine.
- Military Materials: Fire pumps, trench insulation, and vehicles for personnel movement and casualty recovery.
- Morale Boosters: Sweets and small comforts to brighten spirits.
The Route
Bob and Tony began their journey at Ritchie HQ in Forfar, setting off for Newcastle to board the ferry to Amsterdam. Convoy members took varied routes, with some departing from Dover and Harwich.
Not every vehicle made it—one pickup suffered a fuel tank explosion and had to turn back. For those that continued, the journey merged into a united effort as the convoy approached Wrocław, Poland.
The final stretch into Ukraine was fraught with caution. As the convoy neared Lviv, drivers were instructed to proceed nose-to-bumper, with lights dimmed, minimising exposure to potential threats. At the border, vehicle certifications were handed over, marking the official transition to military responsibility—no civilian insurance covers vehicles in a war zone.
In Ukraine
Once in Lviv, the drivers had a chance to learn about the city’s rich history, even amidst the ongoing war. A local historian guided the group, painting a vivid picture of life in a conflict zone.
One of the most poignant moments was visiting the cemetery. Rows of graves stood as stark reminders of the toll the war continues to take. Bob and Tony were deeply moved, noting the heart breaking loss of young men, women medics, and soldiers across generations. Some graves had been filled the previous day; others awaited the newly fallen.
Despite the sombre realities, Lviv remains a city of resilience. Its historic charm, beautiful architecture, and the determination of its people underscore why efforts like Pickups for Peace are so vital.
Impact as of November 2024
- 16 convoys completed
- 497 vehicles delivered.
- 896 drivers contributing to the effort
How you can help:
Pickups for Peace continues to rely on donations and support from individuals and organizations. Whether it’s spare parts, winter gear, or financial contributions, every bit helps make a difference.
