RSL meets today’s Air Force

Members of the Mereweather-Hamilton-Adamstown Returned and Services League (RSL) Sub-Branch attended RAAF Base Williamtown in May to experience today’s Air Force.

CAPTION: Air Force aircraft technician Corporal Leigh Gammie discusses the F-35A Lightning II aircraft with veterans from the Merewether Hamilton Adamstown RSL sub-Branch at 3 Squadron, RAAF Base Williamtown. Story by Flight Lieutenant Grace Casey-Maughan. Photos by Leading Aircraftman Kurt Lewis.

The participants toured 3 Squadron, got up close to a static F-35A Lightning II aircraft, and spoke with serving personnel about their jobs and the aircraft.

Phillip Frawley, president of Mereweather-Hamilton-Adamstown RSL sub-branch and an ex-Air Force pilot, attended the visit.

Mr Frawley joined the Air Force in July 1974 and retired on June 30, 2018. After a long and distinguished career he was inducted into the Guinness World Records as having been the oldest active fighter pilot in history.

He worked closely with Headquarters Air Combat Group to organise the visit.

CAPTION: Air Force aviators and ADF veterans meet at 3 Squadron, RAAF Base Williamtown.

“The visit was brilliant. The base staff were so welcoming, and made it a great visit,” Mr Frawley said.

“The highlight of the day was seeing how the sub-branch members enjoyed themselves on the visit, and learning more about the base and today’s Air Force.”

The engagement between the current serving members and the veterans during the visit was incredibly valuable, with the sharing of experiences and knowledge.

When asked what he would like newer Australian Defence Force personnel to know about the RSL, Mr Frawley highlighted veteran care and support.

“The RSL is there to help,” he said. “We provide a range of services to veterans, such as the social aspect, and help with medical and mental health services. We work closely with DVA to help take care of veterans.”

Commander Air Combat Group, Air Commodore Peter Robinson, spoke to the group on the history of Air Combat Group and the base, and described the character of today’s Air Force and its culture.

Air Commodore Robinson highlighted the Defence Values, and spoke about the smart, effective young personnel they met during their visit.

“It was a pleasure and privilege to host the Mereweather-Hamilton-Adamstown Returned and Services League Sub-Branch on their visit to RAAF Base Williamtown,” he said.

“The RSL is a leading voice for veterans, and are strong advocates for the needs of veterans and their families. Hosting the Sub-Branch at Williamtown was an opportunity for us to recognise the hard work this organisation tirelessly conducts, in their support of current and ex-serving ADF members.”

CAPTION: Commander Air Combat Group, Air Commodore Peter Robinson, meets veterans during the RSL Sub-Branch visit to RAAF Base Williamtown.

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