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WORLD War II pilots and ground crew who trained at Mildura were remembered on Wednesday at the 80th anniversary commemorative service for the local No.2 Operational Training Unit.

Locals and visitors gathered at the War Graves Cemetery in Nichols Point to commemorate the occasion and mourn the loss of those training in Mildura that never made it to war.

Between 1942 and 1945, 58 pilots and ground crew were killed at the training unit, which was the last stage of training for aircrew before being assigned to operational units.

Mildura RSL general manager Kim Archibald said it was important to acknowledge the event and its local connection.

“It is really important to acknowledge all those that served their country and more so that lost their lives,” he said.

“And really what’s poignant about this is it was very close to us here in Mildura having pilots killed in training before they even had the opportunity to get to the southwest Pacific.

“It’s just really important that we learn about Mildura’s involvement in World War II and what occurred here nearly 80 years ago.”

Mr Archibald said members of the unit, that now operated out of Williamstown in NSW, came to Mildura to acknowledge the service of those that had trained here.

He said a F35 Strike Fighter was also meant to put on an aerial and static display at Mildura Airport, but unfortunately had to cancel.

“The Mildura RSL and the Mildura community in general have a wonderful connection with that unit,” he said.

“We are sure that the great connection we have with the unit in Williamstown will continue and there will be another opportunity in future for a contingent to come down with a F35 Strike Fighter in the next 18 months.”

Article provided by Sunraysia Daily
https://www.sunraysiadaily.com.au/