No. 42 Squadron RNZAF
42 Squadron of the RNZAF was formed at Rongotai (Wellington) in December 1943 to provide a communications service around New Zealand, initially using impressed civilian types. It was briefly officially disbanded in 1946, but its aircraft continued with general purpose operations at RNZAF Base Ohakea (near Bulls). When reformed the squadron was equipped with various numbers of Harvard IIB & III, Auster, Avenger TBM-1, Oxford, Devon C.1, P-51D Mustang and DC-3A/C-47D Dakota.
TBF Avengers flown by 42 Squadron pilots were involved in the first aerial topdressing trials carried out in the world, spreading superphosphate fertiliser alongside the runways at Ohakea. Their main purpose was to tow gunnery targets (drogues and banners) for air-to-air gunnery and for the navy and army. The P-51 Mustang also provided high-speed towing of banner targets, especially for Vampire jets, and was used extensively for co-operation in army manoeuvres.
Read more about No. 42 Squadron RNZAF: Transformation and VIP Role, Peacekeeping Role
Famous quotes containing the word squadron:
“Well gentlemen, this is it. This is what we’ve been waiting for. Tonight your target is Tokyo. And you’re gonna play ‘em the Star Spangled Banner with two-ton bombs. All you’ve got to do is to remember what you’ve learned and follow your squadron leaders. They’ll get you in, and they’ll get you out. Any questions? All right that’s all. Good luck to you. Give ‘em hell.”
—Dudley Nichols (1895–1960)