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A combined ceremonial parade to celebrate the consecration of `Squadron Colours' for No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit (3CRU) and No. 26 Squadron (26SQN) was held on 25 February 2021 at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW.
The parade acknowledged the distinguished and enduring military service of 3CRU (50yrs) and 26SQN (25yrs) of operational service respectively, during the Air Force’s centenary year.
3CRU, was formed on 1 November 1967 at Duckhole Hill at RAAF Base Williamtown to provide radar control services to the expanding air defence network. Since its establishment the unit has grown to generate a Command & Control Centre which forms the core of the nation's networked surveillance. 3CRU provides tactical Command and Control primarily for Homeland Defence/Joint Force training, an important contribution providing situational awareness and air battle management to protect Australia and its national Interests at home and abroad.
26SQN, formed at RAAF Base Williamtown on 1 July 1981 as an Active Reserve squadron to support Williamtown and Air Force operations in general. Today, 26SQN is Williamtown's Airbase Operations Squadron with over 250 Air Force and APS personnel. The unit is responsible for providing sustained and coordinated support for air and ground operations at Williamtown.
The Governor-General, His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley, AC, DSC (Retd) was the Reviewing Officer for the parade and the Officer Commanding 96 Wing, Group Captain Brad Clarke was the Host Officer for the event.
The parade provided a high sense of morale for both units, ahead of the official Air Force Centenary events that were held in Canberra on 31 March 2021.