33SQN 20 years young

A No. 33 Squadron 707 with an impressive view of the east coast.

On July 1, No. 33 Squadron celebrated 20 years since it re-formed.

The squadron was reborn following acquisition of extra Boeing 707s and an expansion to include air-to-air refuelling (AAR).

In the 20 years since it was re-formed, the squadron has proudly and ably performed its various roles, which have included VIP transport, community aid, strategic transport and AAR.

This continues the proud tradition established during WWII where the squadron flew transport missions in support of troops to such locations as Milne Bay and Port Moresby.

In more recent times, 33SQN has been involved in operations in Somalia, the Middle East and Afghanistan. It was during the recent deployment to Kyrgyzstan in 2002 that 33SQN showed it’s abilities to the world.

While deployed as part of the international coalition against terrorism, the squadron flew more than 180 sorties over Afghanistan, offloading in excess of six million pounds of fuel to coalition fighters in support of ground operations.

Fighters from France, the US Navy and US Marine Corps all received fuel, with 33SQN earning an excellent reputation among the coalition partners for its flexibility and dedication.

The squadron plans to have a formal dinner to celebrate its anniversary, with an early August date currently in mind.
The squadron would like to extend an invitation to members, past and present, to attend.

For details contact Flying Officer Duncan Flemington on e-mail at duncan.flemington@defence.gov.au or by phone on (02) 4587 3306 during business hours.

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