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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. ^ a b RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 222.
  3. ^ "About Us". Queensland University Squadron. RAAF Association Queensland Division - QUS Branch. 2015. Retrieved 9 April 2015.
  4. ^ a b 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. ^ a b RAAF Historical Section 1995, p. 227.

References