Senator David Feeney, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, today attended RAAF Base Williamtown for the Reformation Ceremony of Numbers 452 and 453 Squadrons.
‘Attending the Parade was a special honour. The Parade celebrated the reformation with Air Force’s Joint Battlefield Airspace Controllers,’ Senator Feeney said.
These two Squadrons are a vital component of the national air traffic management system. They will provide airspace management for both civil and military aircraft operating in and around ADF airbases, including both Darwin and Townsville airports.
Number 452 Squadron will be headquartered at RAAF Base Darwin with subordinate Flights at Darwin, Tindal, Amberley, Oakey and Townsville.
Number 453 Squadron will be headquartered at RAAF Base Williamtown, with subordinate Flights at Williamtown, Nowra, Richmond, East Sale, Edinburgh and Pearce.
These two Squadrons will separate the tactical command and control of the subordinate Flights at each Air Base, allowing Headquarters 44 Wing to focus on operational matters and the overall management of the Battlefield Airspace Control capability.
‘The Reformation Ceremony is a fitting way to remember the traditions of the past, especially as Air Force celebrates its 90th birthday in 2011.
‘RAAF Base Williamtown contributes over $1 billion to the local economy each year, employing more than 3000 people,’ Senator Feeney said.
Number 452 Squadron was the first Royal Australian Air Force squadron to be formed in Britainduring World War II. It served in the European theatre from 1941 prior to reassembling inAustralia in 1943. It played a significant role in the defence of Darwin, before disbanding in November 1945.
Number 453 Squadron formed in Bankstown, New South Wales in 1941. The Squadron deployed to Singapore and Malaysia later that year. The Squadron reformed in the United Kingdom in June 1942. It rapidly became a capable multi-role squadron that also participated in the invasion of Western Europe, until disbanding in January 1946.
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