As the holiday season approaches, Defence News shares stories on the good work and achievements of ADF members from throughout the year.

During October, 2 Squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown designed a special edition pink patch to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

The squadron raised $2000, which was donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), with members proudly wearing their patches both locally and overseas on exercise. 

Leading Aircraftwoman Jessie Laverty and Leading Aircraftwoman Sophie Read, personnel capability specialists from 2 Squadron, brought the idea to their social club with the desire to give back to NBCF. For Leading Aircraftwoman Read, breast cancer research is a cause close to her heart. 

“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is close to me and my family as my mum was diagnosed in 2018 with breast cancer. She is now in remission, but I have experienced firsthand the impacts cancer can have on families, which I know a lot of people can also relate to,” Leading Aircraftwoman Read said.

“Over 20,000 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer per year, so it is important to shed light on Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I wanted to give back to the National Breast Cancer Foundation to support research so more people can have a positive outcome like my mum.”

'2 Squadron was more than supportive of this fundraiser. Most members of the squadron bought a patch to wear.'

The social club, wider 2 Squadron members and the chain of command put their full support behind the fundraiser, with pops of pink brightening up the shoulders of members throughout October. Of 300 patches made, more than 250 were sold. 

“2 Squadron was more than supportive of this fundraiser. Most members of the squadron bought a patch to wear. As the patch is bright pink, it sparks a lot of conversation from other members around the base who are interested to know the meaning of the patch – which was one of our goals when creating the fundraiser,” Leading Aircraftwoman Read said.

Leading Aircraftwoman Read and Leading Aircraftwoman Laverty deployed during October to Florida on Exercise Chequered Flag. Deploying overseas with such a vibrant patch on the shoulders of the 2 Squadron contingent instigated more important conversations. 

“The patch was worn by some members overseas whilst on Exercise Chequered Flag 25. The patch is hard to miss. United States Air Force and Marine members were keen to know more about the patch as they have a huge patch culture,” Leading Aircraftwoman Laverty said. 

“US members were inspired by the idea and hopefully will recreate it for their own units next year in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.”

2 Squadron was proud to come together to contribute to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, ensuring that continued conversation and awareness was front of mind during October.