Austin, Arthur

Arthur John AUSTIN

Leading Aircraftman, 457 Squadron

RAAF.  Number 23009

He was born 2^nd February 1919 and enlisted 15^th July 1940.  He was one of the original ground crew recruited in Australia in 1941 for 457 squadron which departed for the UK.

Arthur was posted to an RAF squadron for six weeks experience and then went to the Isle of Man late 1941.  Peter Watson comments that Arthur, with two others, serviced his aircraft, F for Freddie, for two years at the Isle of Man, Red Hill and Darwin.  He states that he cannot recall one instance where he had to return with an unserviceable aircraft.  Arthur was a wonderful Flight Mechanic.

He was discharged 25^th January 1946 and went to Brisbane where he ran his own taxi service.  He then moved to Albion, Queensland. He later nursed his invalid wife who predeceased him.

Written by Bruce Read Edited by David Hamilton