Air Force honours WW2 veteran, community stalwart

Flight Lieutenant (retd) Brian Winspear, who died aged 104, has been remembered for his distinguished wartime service, post-war contributions to Tasmania’s tourism industry and community spirit.

CAPTION: Aviators from 2 and 29 Squadrons form both an honour guard and bearer party for the late Flight Lieutenant Brian Winspear in Mornington, Tasmania. Story by Flying Officer Matthew Dawson. Photos by Corporal Brett Sherriff.

His funeral was supported by 29 Squadron (City of Hobart) and his former unit, 2 Squadron, of RAAF Base Williamtown, with a ceremonial display of the 2 Squadron colours and citations – their first deployment since the unit’s re-formation in 2000.

Warrant Officer Paul Garante participated in the service and reflected on its significance.

“It is a beautiful reminder that regardless of when or where we serve, an Air Force member’s service is never forgotten,” Warrant Officer Garante said.

“I was humbled and honoured to be a part of Flight Lieutenant Winspear’s journey, even for just a brief moment.”

CAPTION: Sergeant Tanya Russell, of 29 Squadron, leads the honour guard carrying the late Flight Lieutenant Brian Winspear’s medals and uniform insignia.

Flight Lieutenant Winspear enlisted in the Air Force as a wireless operator/air gunner in 1940 at the age of 19, surviving bombing raids, including the 1942 Battle of Darwin. He later served with  2 Squadron, flying in Douglas DC2s and Lockheed Hudsons.

His stepdaughter Kathleen Tymms delivered the eulogy, sharing personal memories and stories from his autobiography, My Back Seat War, where he recalled the moment he saw bombs falling on Darwin.

“People gravitated towards him, not because he demanded attention, but because he gave it so freely,” Ms Tymms said.

“He made you feel like the most important person in the world – he had a gift.”

Post-war, Flight Lieutenant Winspear moved to Bicheno, Tasmania, starting several businesses and becoming a pioneer in the state’s tourism industry. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 1993 for his contributions.

The ceremony concluded with a solemn farewell by 2 Squadron’s bearer party, as family and friends placed poppies on the casket.

“He taught us to work hard and stand tall,” his great-granddaughter Zali said.

“His legacy is one of strength, service and love.”

CAPTION: Aviators from 2 and 29 Squadrons form both an honour guard and bearer party for the late Flight Lieutenant Brian Winspear in Mornington, Tasmania. Story by Flying Officer Matthew Dawson. Photos by Corporal Brett Sherriff.

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