RAAF University Squadrons

RAAF University Squadrons were formed in each state of Australia in 1950 as part of the Citizen Air Force (CAF).[1] They were formed to provide officer training to undergraduates who would then serve as commissioned officers in the RAAF General Reserve. Each squadron consisted of a number of specialist flights including: Flying, Medical, Equipment, Administrative and Technical. The squadrons were disbanded in 1973 following the end of conscription.[2] Approximately 3,100 commissioned officers were trained by the various squadrons over the period of 24 years.[3]

University squadrons

New South Wales

Formed as the Sydney University Squadron on 16 October 1950, its motto was Eadem Mens Alta Petendi (Latin: "In the Same Mind of Seeking the Heights").[4] The squadron changed its name to the New South Wales University Squadron in March 1967.[2] It was disbanded on 31 October 1973.[4]

Queensland

Formed on 31 October 1950 in Brisbane, its motto was Peritus Ac Paratus (Latin: "Skilled and Ready"). It was disbanded on 25 August 1973.[5]

South Australian

Formed as the Adelaide University Squadron on 10 November 1950, its motto was Astra Pete Discendo (Latin: "Seek the Stars by Learning"). The squadron changed its name to the South Australian University Squadron on 11 January 1967. It was disbanded on 28 September 1973.[6]

Tasmanian

Formed on 3 November 1950 in Hobart, its motto was Ingeniis Patuit Campus (Latin: "There is an Open Field for Talent"). It was disbanded on 25 August 1973.[7]

Victorian

Formed on 25 October 1950 in Melbourne, its motto was Strength From Knowledge. It was disbanded on 18 October 1973.[8]

Western Australian

Formed on 30 October 1950 in Perth, its motto was Scientia Potentia (Latin: "Knowledge is Strength"). It was disbanded on 24 August 1973.[8]

Notes

  1. ↑ Dennis et al 2008, pp. 460–461.
  2. 1 2 RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 222.
  3. ↑ "About Us". Queensland University Squadron. RAAF Association Queensland Division - QUS Branch. 2015. Retrieved 9 April 2015.
  4. 1 2 RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 223.
  5. ↑ RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 224.
  6. ↑ RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 225.
  7. ↑ RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 226.
  8. 1 2 RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 227.

References

  • Dennis, Peter; Grey, Jeffrey; Morris, Ewan; Prior, Robin; Bou, Jean (2008). The Oxford Companion to Australian Military History (Second ed.). Melbourne: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0195517849.
  • RAAF Historical Section (1995). Units of the Royal Australian Air Force: A Concise History. Volume 9: Ancillery Units. Canberra: Australian Government Publishing Service. ISBN 0-644-42802-3.
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