Then. Now. Always – 100 Years of the RAAF

On 31 March 2021, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) will mark 100 years of service to Australia.

RAAF Squadron Leader Bruce Chalmers said the centenary was a unique moment for the RAAF community.

“Being a part of commemorating 100 years of operation and service in Australia is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Bruce says.

“The day is more than an anniversary, it is our opportunity to inspire a new generation of aviation specialists, acknowledge the critical role the Air Force plays in our country and highlight Australia’s rich aviation history.

“It is our chance to demonstrate the importance of the Air Force in the lives of our fellow Australians and our service in their name; then, now and always.”

FROM MODEST BEGINNINGS…

Founded in 1921, the Air Force has evolved into a world-class service that our country relies on in conflict and peace. Its establishment followed Australia’s eight Australian Flying Corps (AFC) squadrons’ involvement in reconnaissance during World War One, when military aviation came of age. Formally recognised as the RAAF, Australian air and ground crews played significant roles in World War Two across the world with more than 6,200 aircraft in 61 squadrons by late 1944.

Today, the service continues to make important contributions to Defence and peacekeeping initiatives worldwide. On any given day, our Air Force has up to 700 people working on operations globally that contribute to coalition operations, peacekeeping, and humanitarian and disaster relief efforts.

In 100 years, the Air Force has earned its place in our nation’s history and we’ll be sharing more of the history of the RAAF and the stories of some of RSL Queensland’s members who have served in the Air Force as we draw nearer to the centenary on 31 March.

EVENTS WORTHY OF A CENTENARY COMMEMORATION

The centenary will be commemorated with various events (within COVID-19 safe environments) and a digital campaign which includes a dedicated website that shares fascinating insight into the past and recent history of the service.

“Sharing our stories via social media, newsletters and our website is paramount while we navigate COVID-19 restrictions, and also gives our many service men and women – both current and past – the opportunity to participate in commemorating this special occasion, wherever they may be,” Bruce says. 

Members, ex-service men and women, and aviation enthusiasts can attend events nationally including the Queen’s Colour Presentation Parade in Canberra on 31 March and several events at local bases.

A LASTING LEGACY

Perhaps the most poignant event of the occasion will be the unveiling of the Air Force Centenary Memorial at Point Cook, Victoria.

Considered the birthplace of the RAAF, Point Cook is a significant location for the service. Home to the 1938 memorial remembering those who lost their lives in service during WWI and the 2016 additional capsule with the names of 11,401 Australian Flying Corps and Air Force personnel who have died during operational service, the new memorial will be a poignant addition to such a revered location.

The memorial will recognise all those who serve, have served and will serve in the Air Force and can be viewed by visitors to the RAAF Museum Point Cook after November 2021.

Visit airforce.gov.au/100 regularly for details of RAAF Centenary events happening near you.