A passion for aviation has fuelled one Junee councillor to ensure two forgotten pilots get their time in the sun.
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Flight sergeant William Jones and leading aircraftman Vivian Vickers were killed after two aircraft collided over Wantabadgery during a training exercise in the midst of World War II.
An enquiry into the incident concluded the crash occurred due to pilot error and referred to unauthorised low flying maneuvers.
But a lack of documentation of the incident did not sit well with Junee deputy mayor Matt Austin, who has since pushed for the two men to be honoured with a memorial site in Wantabadgery following the 75th anniversary of the incident.
“I study history and when I found out that this crash had taken place, I couldn't find any reference to it,” Cr Austin said.
“I looked into it and thought it would be nice to commemorate these two young men.”
“The fact that two young men served for their country and died unexpectedly and quickly a long way from home at a young age just makes you think they shouldn’t be forgotten.”
The memorial site will consist of a commemorative plaque honouring the two pilots, along with an information board paying tribute to those who served throughout the Riverina.
The proposed memorial site has received the support of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Junee Shire Council, the Temora Aviation Museum and the local RSL sub branch.
Cr Austin is in discussions with the RAAF in regards to organising an honour guard, and is hoping the Temora Aviation Museum will be able to perform a flyover in the same Wirraway aircraft Mr Jones and Mr Vickers during their finals days.
The unveiling ceremony has been tentatively scheduled for May next year.
