Bickey was a hopeful individual vying for a position as a pilot in the New Republic and found himself in the Screaming Wookiee Squadron. This squadron, a Y-wing training unit, was largely seen as the final chance for pilots close to failing. Atton Repness managed the squadron from the Nebulon-B Frigate called the Tedevium. A youthful and enthusiastic pilot, Bickey was very keen to prove his abilities and courage. He expressed a desire to perish young in combat against the enemy rather than live a long, peaceful life as a farmer. Gara Petothel, an Imperial Intelligence operative working undercover in his training squadron, was struck by his passion, as it challenged her preconceived notions that New Republic pilots were undisciplined and reckless.