On October 14, Bruce Robertson, a 105-year-old Air Force World War 2 veteran – who was the first to detect a Japanese submarine attack on Sydney Harbour – died peacefully, surrounded by family in Sydney. 

He was farewelled at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Castle Hill, Sydney, on October 28. 

Bruce’s two daughters, Judy Thornton and Penelope Svarups, were presented with a folded RAAF Ensign and Airman’s Cap respectively, as a memento of Bruce’s distinguished service.

He enlisted in the Air Force in 1941 and posted to 30 Squadron as a wireless radio operator the following year. 

Bruce was scanning for Morse code transmissions in the middle of the night, when he detected an unfamiliar signal. 

What Bruce heard was communication between Japanese submarines as they readied for an attack on Sydney Harbour, which would claim 22 lives. 

Soon after, Bruce and 30 Squadron deployed to New Guinea, where he fought in the Battle of Milne Bay – the first defeat of Japanese land forces. 

His squadron provided support to Australian and Allied troops, deterring Japanese vessels. 

In March 1943, 30 Squadron Beaufighters led an assault on a Japanese armada carrying reinforcements across the Bismarck Sea and helped clinch a decisive victory on Australia’s doorstep. 

‘Bruce just ran his hands over the names and he said, “They are not just names, they were mates”.’

Bruce was passionate about the squadron’s role in the Battle of the Bismarck Sea and wrote of the anxiety those sitting back at the Wards Strip experienced after they farewelled the Beaufighters and their precious crews. 

However, that anxiety changed to delight when he tuned to the Beaufighters' radio frequency. 

They put the signal through on a loud speaker so all could hear the Bismarck Sea battle taking place.

The words “Well done boys, let’s go home” came through. 

“For a battle to be won in 28 minutes is incredible,” Bruce said.

“In all probability, [it was] a feat never accomplished against such a large force, in war’s long history.” 

The squadron’s fighters, along with United States aircraft, sank eight transports and four destroyers. 

Bruce discharged in 1946, but spent his whole life honouring the memory of those he served alongside.

He was sought after for interviews and as a guest of honour at veteran and commemorative events. He regularly spoke at schools, ensuring the legacy of the past was never forgotten.

Decades after the war, Bruce designed and constructed a brick memorial honouring fallen 30 Squadron personnel, who died from 1942 to 1945 in service. 

The memorial is in front of the RAAF Base Richmond chapel and serves to commemorate the Battle of the Bismarck Sea each year. 

Bruce was the squadron’s last surviving World War 2 veteran, who was also part of the squadron when it first formed.

He was president of the 30 Squadron Beaufighter Association when he died. 

'It was a privilege and an honour to be your mate, Bruce. Thank you for your service.'

Wing Commander Sharyn Bolitho was the first Commanding Officer when it was reformed in 2010 at RAAF Base East Sale, and became vice president of the 30 Squadron Beaufighter Association this year.

She said Bruce was a dear friend whose calibre was measured by his commitment to honouring the legacy of 30 Squadron, particularly those who sacrificed their lives during the war. 

In 2022, Bruce travelled for the fourth time to RAAF Base East Sale – this time for the squadron’s 80th anniversary. 

To mark the occasion, Bruce organised and unveiled replica plaques to those on the memorial at RAAF Base Richmond, commemorating the Battle of the Bismarck Sea. 

“My most vivid and touching memory of Bruce was when he unveiled the plaque with all those names,” Wing Commander Bolitho said. 

“Bruce just ran his hands over the names and he said, ‘They are not just names, they were mates’."

“It was such a poignant moment. I had tears in my eyes, and I know everyone else there did too.

“It was a privilege and an honour to be your mate, Bruce. Thank you for your service.”

At the funeral, Air Vice-Marshal Dave Rogers (retd), Patron of 30 Squadron Beaufighter Association, passed on condolences from Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, and then delivered an Air Force eulogy. 

The RSL also paid tribute. Bruce was a much-loved member of the Castle Hill RSL.

Vale Bruce Robertson.