FIFTEEN
new Air Force and Navy pilots achieved a major milestone in their
careers and Air Force history when they graduated from the 200th
pilots’ course conducted at RAAF Base Pearce on December 19 last
year.
The graduation marked the 200th pilots’ course conducted since
post-World War II flying training commenced at Point Cook in 1948.
The course was transferred to its present location at Pearce in
May 1858. Since then, 3143 pilots have graduated. CAF Air Marshal
Angus Houston, who reviewed the parade, noted that last year also
commemorated 90 years since the graduation of the first Australian
military pilots in August 1914.
“Those amazing men who graduated from the first flying training
course at Point Cook were viewed as courageous and daring risk-takers.
Whatever people might have thought of them [at the time], there
is no denying that they were incredibly brave,” he said.
“Today’s graduation represents the culmination of many long months
of very hard work by all of you. You have been challenged intellectually,
physically and emotionally.
By standing here today you have signalled your commitment to your
profession and to the values of both Navy and Air Force.
“You might feel like you are starting all over again. There’ll
be new faces, new demands, a new environment and new and different
pressures.
“I urge you to grasp the opportunities presented by this next
stage of your careers. Work hard, be prepared for every flight
and learn as much as you can. And remember, learning never ends,
especially when it comes to achieving excellence and ensuring
flight safety.”
PC-9 and Hawk aircraft made a congratulatory flypast afterwards.
