Squadron remembers its wartime legacy

Members of 100SQN visited the Australian War Memorial in Canberra last month to take part in the Last Post Ceremony, a moving tribute to the more than 103,000 Defence personnel listed on the Roll of Honour who died as a result of their service to Australia.

The ceremony commemorates an individual serviceman or woman each evening and provides an opportunity to reflect on and acknowledge their service and sacrifice.

In a fitting coincidence, 100SQN’s visit coincided with a dedication to SGT Archibald Campbell, an air gunner from Naringal, Victoria, who was killed in a Hudson flying accident over Northern Ireland in 1942. As custodians of the world’s only airworthy Lockheed Hudson, the attending members of 100SQN had a serendipitous connection to the veteran they were there to honour.

ACW Audrianna Wells said taking part in the ceremony was a moving experience.

“It was a privilege to stand in remembrance and reflect on the service and sacrifice of Sergeant Campbell. I was proud to pay my respects on behalf of those serving today,” ACW Wells said.

“It was an honour to be involved.”

Following the ceremony, squadron members laid a wreath in honour of SGT Campbell, and also paused to acknowledge two 100SQN World War II veterans, Bristol Beaufort pilot James Birt and wireless operator/air gunner Ted McConchie.

The recent deaths of both gentlemen marked the loss of the squadron’s last living links to its World War II history.

100SQN WOFF Andrew Doyle said the ceremony provided squadron members with a greater understanding of their own service.

“Memorialising our past grounds us in respect and provides a better understanding of where we are today,” WOFF Doyle said.

“Being able to understand the sacrifices made by those who came before us, and what it took to get us to where we are now, it is only right and honourable that we stop to reflect and remember them.”

100SQN’s visit to the Australian War Memorial continued to strengthen the unit’s connection to the people and the aircraft that shaped its history, while reinforcing the traditions that underpin service today.

The ADF continues to play an important role in supporting the Australian War Memorial's Last Post Ceremony program through volunteer readings and ceremonial participation.

Personnel who have not yet participated in the Last Post Ceremony are encouraged to nominate as volunteer readers, ensuring the stories of service and sacrifice continue to be shared with visitors from across Australia and around the world.