Amongst some of Australia's darkest days, three of Australia's brightest and best fighter squadrons were formed.

As a response to Japanese aerial attacks on Darwin on 19 February 1942, 75 Squadron, 76 Squadron and 77 Squadron were formed in March 1942.

As this year marks the 60th anniversary of their formation, these remarkable squadrons each celebrated appropriately to mark the occasion.

75 Squadron, formed in Townsville on 4 March 1942, is now located at RAAF Base Tindal.

A squadron open day was held on 9 March which included a ceremonial plaque unveiling and display of squadron colours, followed by a formal dinner.

The events provided an opportunity for some of the original members of 75 Squadron to get together and mix with current and former 75 Squadron personnel.

76 Squadron was formed less than a month later, on 14 March 1942 at Archerfield QLD. On the 15th March 02, a Colour Parade boasted the presence of retired GPCAPT Colin Patching (ex CO 76SQN 1992-1994) as the Reviewing Officer.

Following the parade, the squadron continued the celebrations with an open day and barbecue lunch.

Within a couple of days, 77 Squadron was formed in Perth on 16 March 1942. In association with the close links to the formation of 76 Squadron, 77 Squadron also celebrated the formation of their squadron with a Colour Parade on the 15 March 02.

The Chief of Air Force, accompanied by WGCDR retired Dick Cresswell (Ex CO 77 Squadron 20 April 1942 - 20 July 1943 and 11 November 1950 - 16 August 1951), were in attendance to review the parade.

This was followed by lunch and an open day for families and former members.

Members from past and present of both squadrons were provided with the opportunity to swap stories of now and then.

It is poignant to note that on the actual date of 75 Squadron's 60th anniversary, the squadron was involved in providing air defence support for Operation GUARDIAN II.

This involved 75 Squadron flying armed combat air patrol overhead at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting venue on the Sunshine Coast, QLD in early March this year.

By CPL Angela Rose