Shining links

Volume 48, No. 20, November 2, 2006

PROUD: LAC Jay Ruddell accepts the Beaufighter and Boston Trophy from Association President Ralph Ind.  Photo by LACW Alice Gardiner

THREE members of 6SQN and two from 1SQN are the winners of the south-east Queensland 2006 RAAF Associations’ Day awards.

They received their accolades at 82WG’s annual associations’ day, held at RAAF Base Amberley recently.

For 82WG, the event is important as it maintains a tangible link between past units and servicemen and women, and current Air Force personnel.

Members from six Air Force associations in south-east Queensland gathered at the base to present trophies to Wing members and base personnel who support Amberley in recognition of their outstanding performances.

FLTLT Simon Nickson from 6SQN and FLTLT Leo Lochran from 1SQN both won the Beaufort Trophy, which is awarded to aircrew members whose efforts during the year have significantly contributed to squadron flying operations.

FLTLT Mathew Michell from 1SQN received the Pathfinder Trophy, which recognises the most outstanding aircrew member on his or her first operational tour.

CPL Matthew Hume from 6SQN claimed the 467-463 Squadron (QLD) Association Annual Trophy, which is awarded to technical airmen in their early years of service who demonstrate excellence in general service attitude and proficiency in mustering.

LAC Jay Ruddell from 6SQN won the Beaufighter and Boston Trophy for his support of strike reconnaissance activities in a non-technical combat support role.

“I was extremely surprised [to be nominated] and didn’t think I had really done anything extraordinary, apart from doing my job and what was required of me, to receive such an award,” LAC Ruddell said.

“On receipt of the award, however, I was extremely proud to be recognised for the work I have done, and proud to be part of 6SQN and the Air Force.”

After an official welcome by OC 82WG GPCAPT Leo Davies, CHAPs Paul Goodland and Andrew Knight conducted a moving memorial service in the Officers’ Mess.

GPCAPT Davies acknowledged the importance of the commitment of association members to retaining a critical link to our history.

“The significance of these trophies is not lost on the deserving recipients, as you can see the pride in their faces,” he said.

“Of course, outside of the presentations is the story telling. Stories of bad weather, enemy fighter and ground fire during 1000 bomber
raids and Japanese fleet attacks leave us in awe of these guys.”

.