The courageous service of an Australian World War II aviator was celebrated on both sides of the country at a special Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.
Members of the Birt family, alongside aviators from 100 and 460 Squadrons, attended the service dedicated to Flying Officer Peter Birt, who flew with 460 Squadron as part of Bomber Command in the European theatre on the Avro Lancaster.
Peter flew 14 operations over Germany and quickly earned the respect of his crew for his calmness, professionalism and skill.
The squadron suffered the highest casualty rate in Bomber Command, and sadly, Peter was one of them. While on his 15th operation in January 1945, his Lancaster, 'S for Sugar', was attacked over Stuttgart. He ordered the crew to bail out and managed to control the aircraft long enough for most to safely escape.
Peter, along with two of his crew, was killed in the crash. He was just 20 years old.
Watching the service from his home in Perth was Peter's brother, James, who served with 100 Squadron in World War II, flying the Bristol Beaufort.
"It brought back many memories hearing his story," James Birt said.
'Despite more than 80 years hav[ing] passed since Peter's service, the values of our past aviators echo in our Air Force today.'
The Birt family received a special tour of the Bristol Beaufort held by the Australian War Memorial, which has been painted to reflect its wartime service with 100 Squadron, and the 'G for George' Lancaster, which was operated by 460 Squadron, providing them with a glimpse of what James and Peter might have experienced flying these aircraft.
Commanding Officer 100 Squadron Wing Commander Richard Brougham reflected on the poignancy of the visit.
"There's a living connection between these aircraft and the Birt family, which has brought Peter and James' stories to life," Wing Commander Brougham said.
"It means a lot for families to see their relatives' service remembered, and how we are maintaining history and legacy for future generations."
For Commanding Officer 460 Squadron Wing Commander Karri Roberts, the service highlighted the ongoing connection between aviators past and present.
"For our younger aviators in particular, it's an important opportunity to appreciate the courage and sacrifice of those that have served with 460 Squadron, and ensure their legacy lives on," Wing Commander Roberts said.
"Despite more than 80 years hav[ing] passed since Peter's service, the values of our past aviators echo in our Air Force today.
"The courage and service shown by Peter continues to provide inspiration for all our aviators, and we are thankful for his family's continuing support."
