Chief awards troops at Williamtown

By Michael Brooke

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Shepherd chats with LAC Keith McManemin, standing, and CPL Stavros Tsolakides while inspecting a Hawk during a visit to No. 76 Squadron.

Photo by CPL Pete Borys

CHIEF of Air Force Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd has told the personnel of RAAF Base Williamtown that the role of our C-130s flying Bali bomb victims home provided a timely reminder of the many challenges ahead.

In his parade address on October 6, he said it was the dedication and hard work of personnel that enabled the Air Force to respond to emergencies such as the Bali bombing repatriation to Williamtown.

“The Air Force faces many challenges in maintaining the current operational tempo that will likely remain the same for a few more years to come,” he said.

“We need to strive to be the best that we can be, with the resources and equipment we have here and now.”

He said the future was very exciting because many squadrons, including some at Williamtown, would soon receive new equipment and technologies that would significantly enhance Air Force’s capabilities.

To acknowledge the efforts of his people, he presented more than a dozen medals and awards to Williamtown personnel.

In what was his first visit to the base since becoming Chief, he said it was important to stay in touch with the issues and challenges confronting personnel.

He demonstrated an excellent rapport with the men and women, discussing a range of issues including morale, deployments and training.

During a visit to No. 41 Wing’s Surveillance and Control Unit, he recognised Flight Lieutenant Rob Seabrook as his driver in Baghdad last year.

“Yes sir, that was me in the helmet and sun glasses, I’m surprised you remember me,” Flight Lieutenant Seabrook responded.

The Chief also made people feel comfortable with his good humour. When presenting a Defence Force Long Service Medal to Sergeant Bob Avery of No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit, he offered him some morning tea with it.

“You also get a chocolate biscuit with the award,” he said with a chuckle.

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