On Wednesday March 31 2021, the Royal Australian Air Force celebrated its centenary.
Federal Member for Gippsland and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel attended events in Canberra to mark the day including the Australian War Memorial’s Last Post Ceremony where Lakes Entrance local Robert Scott played the bagpipes.
The ceremony honoured the life and service of Air Mechanic William Henry Lord who served in the Australian Flying Corps during the Second World War and died tragically at age 22 as a prisoner of war.
“It’s an important day for RAAF personnel and for Australia as we mark 100 years of the Air Force and the more than 350,000 Australians who have worn the Air Force uniform over the last 100 years,” Mr Chester said.
“Our region is proud of its rich heritage in hosting the East Sale RAAF Base in our community for the past 78 years. The base has recently undergone a major transformation and will continue to serve our community for decades to come.
“It was great to catch up with Lakes Entrance local Robert Scott, who played the bagpipes during the Last Post ceremony, and to meet veterans and current serving Air Force personnel as part of the national commemorative event.
“Thank you for your service.”
