William Henry Lockwood

William Henry Lockwood was my father and served in the RAAF during World War 2.  He enlisted on 9 April 1942 and was discharged on 14 March 1946.  Dad held the Rank of Leading Aircraftman at the time of Discharge.  Dad’s posting at Discharge was 33 Operational Base Unit.

Dad lied about his date of birth to join the Air Force, listing his date of birth as 25 February 1924 when it was 25 April 1924.  He was 17 years old.

Dad served in Papua New Guinea and Thursday Island.  He would often sit on the bed and tell us stories over the war.  He would talk about planes flying over and bombs. 

His records show that he was paid 6/- per day and his application acceptance included a rail warrant requesting Dad to report to Melbourne.  He was described as a short, solid build, average dress and suitable type.

On one of his conduct sheets, he caused a disturbance I the meal line!

I proudly march each year at the Bendigo Dawn Service on ANZAC Day with a duplicate set of dad’s medals.  My sister, Sue Turner, marches at the Birchip 11am service with dad’s original medals.