ANZAC DAY 2026: Honouring Those Who Served
- 22 hours ago
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Ahead of Anzac Day, AAHOF pays tribute to the immense bravery and lasting contributions of our ANZAC Inductees, whose courage extended far beyond the battlefield. This week, we highlight the stories of young men who turned their eyes upward, once the guns of war fell silent.
Ray Parer & John McIntosh
As Ray Parer served as a pilot with the Australian Flying Corps, McIntosh rose from the 4th Field Ambulance at Gallipoli to the cockpit. Together, they overcame the brutalities of the battlefield, and went on to attempt one of aviation's greatest challenges.
In 1920, the pair flew a second-hand DH.9 against all odds, across some of the world's most unforgiving terrain, and successfully landed in Darwin. They had completed a journey which other well-equipped crews had failed to. Lest we forget not only those who fell, but those who carried their courage forward.
Paul Joseph McGinness
Before co-founding Qantas, Paul McGinness served as a pilot with the Australian Flying Corps during World War One, flying reconnaissance and combat missions over the Middle East. His wartime experience forged the vision and determination that would go on to shape Australian aviation forever.
William "Billy" Hart
William Hart was among Australia's earliest military aviators, serving with distinction during World War One. His contributions to the emerging field of military aviation helped lay the groundwork for the aerial capabilities Australia would come to depend upon.
Sir Richard Williams KBE CB DSO
Widely regarded as the father of the Royal Australian Air Force, Sir Richard Williams served with the Australian Flying Corps in World War One before dedicating his career to building Australia's independent air force. His legacy is woven into the very fabric of Australian aviation history.
James Bennett AFM and BAR MSM MiD
James Bennett's distinguished service earned him some of the highest honours available to an airman, recognised repeatedly for gallantry and meritorious service. His story is one of sustained excellence in the face of extraordinary circumstances.
We invite you to take a moment to explore the full stories of these remarkable men and the many other inductees who have shaped Australian aviation history. Their courage, vision and sacrifice deserve to be remembered especially in today's changing world.
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