6 April 2023
On Friday March 31, aviators across the nation stopped to reflect on the 102 years since the formation of the RAAF.
In addition to local base commemorations, official events were conducted in Canberra, including the raising of the RAAF ensign, a commemorative service at the RAAF Memorial on Anzac Parade, a Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial and the Air Force Proficiency and Leadership Awards ceremony.
Heritage aircraft from 100 Squadron conducted a flypast over the RAAF Memorial in Canberra and RAAF Base Williams, Laverton.
Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Rob Chipman said the foundation of Air Force’s achievements had always been the aviators – “the men and women of Australia who have declared their allegiance and served our country”.
“People are unquestionably our greatest capability, our asymmetric advantage, and so it is fitting that we’ve chosen to celebrate our aviators this year during the Air Force birthday events,” Air Marshal Chipman said.
He said Air Force was well positioned to build on its 102-year history.
“We must again grow and transform our aviators for the future,” he said.
“We’ll be challenged by advancing technologies and accelerating strategic uncertainty, but we’re up for that challenge. I’m confident that our aviators, current and future, will uphold and strengthen our wonderful heritage.
“So, to all aviators who have served in the Royal Australian Air Force and still do, thank you.
“Thank you for your commitment, loyalty and dedicated service, every single one of you has helped get us to where we are today and you are all helping us lay a pathway for the future. Your contribution to our Air Force truly matters.”
