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5 Airfield Construction Squadron

A wreath laying to honour the service and sacrifice of 5 Airfield Construction Squadron.

09 July 2023 11:00 am - 09 July 2023 11:30 am
Sanctuary, Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, VIC 3001
Free admission
Accessible venue

No.5 Airfield Construction Squadron (ACS) was formed in July 1942 and served in New Guinea and Borneo. It was first known as No.1 Mobile Works Squadron but ended the war as No.5 ACS. They were also known as 'The Flying Shovels'.

The role of No.5 ACS was to build and maintain airfields and runways in forward positions. This was usually done at short notice and under threat of attack, making it dangerous but necessary work. No.5 ACS built airfields and runways throughout the South West Pacific, including at Port Moresby, Milne Bay, Aitape and Noemfoor Island.

No.5 ACS was one of the few airfield construction units to continue after the Second World War ended. They would go on to serve in the British Commonwealth occupation of Japan and the Vietnam War. They would also serve throughout Australia, including assisting with Operation Hurricane – the British nuclear weapons tests off the coast of Western Australia. When No.5 ACS was disbanded in 1974 it was the longest-serving airfield construction unit.

Shrine Representative:

  • Shrine Governor Squadron Leader Steve Campbell-Wright

Watch the live stream:

Reviewed 02 June 2023

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