Tribute to volunteers

No. 1 Airfield Defence Guards Aircraftman Andrew Kutnyj and Leading Aircraftman Leigh Chillingworth put on a display in Adelaide on Reserves Forces Day. Photo by SQNLDR Deanna Nott.

Corporal Phillip Gardiner, Corporal Joanne Kohler and Leading Aircraftman John Butler, of No. 26 Squadron, at the Newcastle parade. Photo by SGT Nerine Eaton

Corporal Peter Bower and popular security dog Millie the German shepherd in Adelaide. Photos by SQNLDR Deanna Nott.

Flight Lieutenant Barry Cuthbert, No. 24 Squadron Training Officer, and Sergeant Jayne Gawley, Clerical Training specialist, with recruiting brochures.

By Graham Davis and
SQNLDR Deanna Nott

FOR the first time since 1960 Air Force Reserve pilots have conducted a formation fly past over Sydney.

Three Hawk 127 Fighters flew overhead during the Reserve Forces Day Parade 2003 on July 6.

The last fly past by Air Force Reserve pilots took place in 1960. On that occasion five Meteor jets were used.

As the echo of the fighters faded and with their service medals glinting and drums beating, more than 6000 Reservists from six nations proudly marched in the parade.

In Newcastle, Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne there were similar scenes.

It was a big day – and an important one – in which the 1.25 million men and women from the Air Force, Army and Navy Reserves who have served their country since World War II were acknowledged.

Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence Danna Vale described the day as “amazing and exciting” and one which demonstrated the “volunteer spirit” so evident in Australia.

In Adelaide, No. 24 (City of Adelaide) Squadron members were out in force with new brochures and banners, keen to encourage shoppers to consider a part-time career in the Air Force.

Squadron Leader Delwyn Ayling and her team chatted with hundreds of people at their large recruiting display.

“Air Force Reserves have played, and continue to play, an essential part in maintaining Australia’s security,” SQNLDR Ayling said. “Increasingly, Defence is drawing on the skills and expertise of Reservists to augment those of the permanent forces.”

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