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817
judged best
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MCAUST,
RADM Raydon Gates presents the McNicholl Trophy to the CO 817
Sqn, CMDR Ken Macaulay-Black. The squadron has been judged best
for the second year running.
Photo by LSPH Brad Fullerton |
By
Graham Davis
Maritime Commander RADM Ray-don Gates has warned the personnel of
817 Squadron that a busy year lies ahead in the wake of the conflict
in Iraq.
He made his comments during the presentation at HMAS Albatross for
the second consecutive year of the McNicoll Trophy to 817 Squadron
(CMDR Ken Macaulay-Black) on May 6.
The squadron, which operates seven Sea King helicopters, has a Sea
King flight embarked in HMAS Kanimbla.
The trophy is awarded to the squadron judged the best for its operational
level, safety, reliability and training.
During 2002 the squadron participated in a number of civil community
emergencies including the water bombing of bushfires in the Shoalhaven
basin and the search and successful rescue of bushwalkers on Christmas
Island.
817 Squadron Sea Kings were also involved in outstanding operations
on ships involved in Operations Slipper and Relex and completed the
First of Class flight trials for Sea Kings operating from the RAN’s
LPAs.
The squadron’s 150 men and women formed up behind their CO when
he received the glass encased trophy from RADM Gates.
RADM Gates told the squadron that Operation Falconer has ended.
“It is now Operation Catalyst – the re-building role.”
“It is going to be another busy year and the tempo will be much
the same,” he warned.
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