CO with plaque Officer Commanding No. 78 Wing, GPCAPT William Johnson opened refurbished facilities and unveiled a plaque that acknowledged the Macchi's significant contribution to pilot training at RAAF Base Pearce.

On 16 March 2001, No. 79 Squadron and dignitaries, including former World War II Squadron members, gathered to farewell the Macchi 326 and officially welcome the 127 Hawk into No. 79 Squadron service.

As a tribute to both aircraft, 79 Squadron held a commemorative ceremony at which the Officer Commanding 78 Wing, Group Captain William Johnson, CSM opened the Squadron's refurbished facilities and unveiled a plaque that acknowledged the Macchi's significant contribution to pilot training at RAAF Base Pearce.

Following the unveiling of the plaque, Base Padre Squadron Leader Robert Paget blessed the fleet and the refurbished hangar. Members and guests were then able to view the various Squadron, BAE SYSTEMS and Rolls Royce static displays and were treated to a flypast comprising two Hawks escorting two Macchis on their final training flight.

At the end of what amounted to a most successful day, a Squadron dinner was held in the hangar where guests and Squadron members saluted the fine contribution made by the Macchi over the years and farewelled an old friend.

Story by FLGOFF Dean McAuliffe
Photographs by CPL Kirsty Chambers