Farewell kindles fond memories

Air Vice-Marshal John Kindler and his wife, Narelle, at his last official appearance. Photo by ACW Libby Ginn

AFTER a long and successful tenure as Air Commander, Air Vice-Marshal John Kindler has said goodbye to “the best job in the Air Force”.

While farewelling his distinguished service career, AVM Kindler welcomed in a new era for Air Force with the official handover of his command to Air Vice-Marshal Geoffrey Shepherd in a traditional ceremony at RAAF Base Richmond on December 12.

In congratulating new Air Commander and friend AVM Shepherd on his appointment, AVM Kindler reflected on his last, and most significant, role in the Air Force to the audience from across Air Command.

“The last three years and eight months, apart from being a bit of a record tenure for an Air Commander, have been the busiest that command has seen in many decades,” he said. “Together, we have been involved in the planning and execution of some 37 operations including East Timor, the MEAO and Solomon Islands.

“I owe a lot to my COs and FEG commanders, both past and present. Your professionalism and values have helped us through some very trying times, and I suspect there is more to come.

“I take with me the memories of working with the most professional airmen and airwomen, sailors and soldiers, having achieved a long list of extensive successes that all speak for themselves.

“Together we have increased the already high credibility and image of the RAAF. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved, and all of you should be, too.”

AVM Kindler and his wife, Narelle, are looking forward to spending much more of their lives together in retirement.

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