TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

RAAF Pilot Wings

The RAAF Pilot Wings was instituted shortly after the Royal Australian Air Force's establishment on March 21st, 1921. Pilots wear the letters "RAAF" in a blue laurel wreath, surmounted by St Edwards crown (the crown worn by the sovereign at their coronation), with a swift's wing on each side. This badge comes with numerous variants, including sterling silver boxed versions.

During World War II, RAAF pilots earned their wings through a training process, largely conducted under the Empire Air Training Scheme (EATS). This initiative prepared Australian aviators for combat, often sending them to Canada, Rhodesia, and the United Kingdom for advanced instruction.

Training Stages:
- Elementary Flying Training School (EFTS) – Initial instruction in Australia, where cadets learned basic flight controls and maneuvers.
- Service Flying Training School (SFTS) – Advanced training overseas, focusing on combat techniques, aerial navigation, and operational flying.
- Wings Presentation – Upon successfully completing training, pilots received their RAAF wings, marking their readiness for deployment.

Grid List
NameDate of birthDate of deathAwards
Hall, Leonard Douglas 16-06-1944
Hemsworth, Godfrey Ellard "Goff" 07-05-1942
Hinkler, Herbert John Louis 'Bert'08-12-189207-01-1933
Hitchcock, Robert Edward19-06-191213-08-1940
Holmes, John Cecil00-00-192106-03-1945more
Howard, Basil06-07-191529-05-1945

Sources