2 May 2003
F/A-18 Hornets complete their final combat mission in the Middle East.

The F/A-18 Hornet contingent is a part of Operation Falconer, the Australian contribution to the international coalition for the removal of weapons of mass destruction from Iraq.
After nearly six weeks of air combat operations the Royal Australian Air Force’s F/A-18 Hornets have flown their final missions in the skies over Iraq.
“The contingent is made up of people from all over the Air Force and Australia, many of whom met for the first time on this operation. They adapted rapidly, understood what was needed and worked tirelessly together to bring this operation together. They have served the Air Force and their country in a way which we should all be proud.”

	Royal Australian Airforce groundcrew welcome back one of the F/A-18 Hornets after the flights successful last combat mission over the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	The Royal Australian Air Force's Corporal David Thomas and Corporal Craig Whiteman move in to launch their F/A-18 Hornets for their final combat mission in the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	Wing Commander Mel adjusts his flying suit assisted by the maintainer of his F/A-18 Hornet prior to his final combat mission in the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	Flight Lieutenant Jordan, Squadron Leader Phil, Wing Commander Pete and Wing Commander Mel are welcomed back to base by Group Captain William Henman after successfully completing their final combat mission over the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	Corporal Dan Graham arms a missile as Corporal Craig McDonald siginals Wing Commander Mel in F/A-18 Hornet in preparation for his final combat mission in the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	Wing Commander Mel gestures to his maintainance crew prior to taxing his F/A-18 Hornet on its final combat mission in the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	Wing Commander Pete discusses final aircraft checks with the maintainer of his F/A-18 Hornet prior to his final combat mission in the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	An F/A-18 Hornet leads the way for the flight of Hornets on their final combat mission in the Middle East. (Date taken: 27 April 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res