Proud Magpies

No. 75 Squadron members stand to attention during a four-ship Hornet flypast at the parade at RAAF Base Tindal to present the Squadron with a Meritious Unit Citation.

WGCDR Steven Roberton, CO 75SQN, receives congratulations from Ted Egan, Administrator of the Northern Territory.

Photos by LAC Greg Pierce

NO. 75 Squadron received a Meritorious Unit Citation at a parade at RAAF Base Tindal on June 9 for its service in the MEAO.

The honour, presented by Northern Territory Administrator Ted Egan, recognises the achievements of the Squadron, which deployed 14 Hornets and about 250 airmen and women as part of Operation Falconer last year.

CAF Air Marshal Angus Houston said he was immensely proud of the unit.

“Most impressive were the Gunnies, working around the clock in the ordnance loading areas; as well as the maintainers who kept aircraft serviceability rates above 95 per cent for the operation. The avionics specialists worked admirably. They kept the Nighthawk FLIR pods working for the vital targeting and weapons employment roles.

“The maintenance and support efforts were a credit to the Air Force,” AIRMSHL Houston said. “Finally, the work put in by the members who were left behind in Tindal created this achievement. Many of the 75SQN Magpies didn’t deploy but maintained the vital logistics and spares support which enabled the operational success in Falconer and the re-constitution of the Squadron on its return.”

75SQN’s deployment was the first time Australia has deployed fighter aircraft to an operational area since the Korean conflict 55 years ago. Despite the lack of combat experience, the Squadron flew 168 combat missions in the face of threats from hostile aircraft, SAM sites and ground fire.

75SQN CO Wing Commander Steve Roberton said the “citation recognises the dedication of everyone involved in the operation”.

“It is a proud day in the unit history and a proud day for all 75SQN Magpies,” WGCDR Roberton said.

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