Derrick Family Genealogy & History

Thomas Currie "Diver" Derrick (1914–1945) was a distinguished Australian soldier and Victoria Cross recipient, renowned for his valor during World War II. Notably, Derrick's heroic assault on a fortified Japanese position at Sattelberg, New Guinea, earned him the Victoria Cross in November 1943. His military career included significant achievements in the Middle East, such as receiving the Distinguished Conduct Medal at El Alamein, and participating in the siege of Tobruk. Derrick's dedication to service continued until his untimely death from combat wounds in May 1945 on Tarakan Island, marking him as a celebrated figure in Australian military history.

Derrick was born in Medindie, South Australia, to David Derrick, an Irish laborer, and Ada (née Whitcombe), an Australian. The family faced economic challenges, with Derrick often attending school barefoot. Despite these hardships, Derrick's formative years were marked by a strong interest in sports and a resilient spirit, which later defined his military legacy.

Butler Carson Derrick Jr. was a prominent American politician, serving as a U.S. Representative from South Carolina for two decades. Born on September 30, 1936, Derrick was a key figure in the Democratic Party, holding office from 1974 to 1994. He was known for his influential roles on the House Rules and Budget Committees and served as a Chief Deputy Whip. Despite representing a district that leaned increasingly Republican, Derrick maintained strong support, securing his last election with 61% of the vote. After retiring from Congress, he joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP and was active in the Common Cause National Governing Board. Derrick passed away from cancer on May 5, 2014, in Easley, South Carolina.

Chris Derrick, an eminent American distance runner born on October 17, 1990, has remarkably impacted the world of cross country and track events. Derrick is celebrated for clinching three consecutive US Cross Country Championships from 2013 to 2015. A former Stanford University athlete, he earned an impressive 14 All-American honors and set an American junior record in the 5000 meters with a time of 13:29.98. His high school career was equally illustrious, highlighted by a state championship win in Illinois and the Gatorade National Boys Cross Country Runner of the Year award in 2007. Derrick's association with clubs like the Nike Oregon Track Club and the Bowerman Track Club further underscores his dedication and prowess in distance running.

Christopher Hugh Derrick (1921-2007) was a distinguished British author, reviewer, and lecturer known for his fervent commitment to Catholic teachings. His career highlights include serving as a publisher's reader and Printing Officer at the University of London, and his prolific work as a literary adviser and book reviewer for prestigious publications like The Times Literary Supplement. Derrick authored numerous influential books, including "Escape from Scepticism" and "C. S. Lewis and the Church of Rome," engaging with topics like Catholicism, literary culture, and social issues.

Christopher Derrick was born in Hungerford to Thomas Derrick, an artist, and Margaret (née Clausen) Derrick. His brother, Michael Derrick, was the assistant editor of The Tablet. Derrick attended Douai School and later Magdalen College, Oxford, with his studies interrupted by service in the Royal Air Force during WWII. He married Katharine Helen Sharratt in 1943, with whom he had nine children.