Flying at just 150 metres, a formation of two C-130J Hercules from Number 37 Squadron will conduct a flypast as part of the commemoration of the Vietnam Veterans’ Day.

The aircraft will conduct two flypasts of the Cowra War Memorial. The first will occur at 10:28am. The Aircraft will then reposition and conduct a second flypast of the Memorial at approximately 10:32am. They will be travelling at approximately 400km/h at a height of 150 meters.

The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th century. Almost 60,000 Australians fought in the war and more than 500 lost their lives. 37 Squadron flew C-130E Hercules long range transport missions in support of Australian forces in Vietnam and the unit is proud to conduct flypasts with the latest generation of Hercules aircraft to support these commemoration services.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan where, on the 18th of August 1966, 108 brave young men from D Company 6RAR resisted an attack of 1,500-2,500 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong troops.

It would become one of the most extraordinary chapters in Australia’s military history and is also now the date on which Vietnam Veterans' Day is held each year.

Number 37 Squadron operates 12 C-130J Hercules aircraft from RAAF Richmond in Sydney’s North West. The Hercules is capable of carrying 120 passengers, or 20 tonnes of cargo.

Noise reduction and the environment are vital considerations in the planning and conduct of military flying and flypasts. Air Force appreciates the support it receives from the local community of Cowra.