This Day in History: 1950-10-16

RAAF Sydney University Squadron was formed on 16 October 1950, its motto was Eadem Mens Alta Petendi (Latin: “In the Same Mind of Seeking the Heights”). RAAF University Squadrons were formed in each state of Australia in 1950 as part of the Citizen Air Force (CAF). They were formed to provide officer training to undergraduates who would then serve as commissioned officers in the RAAF General Reserve. Each squadron consisted of a number of specialist flights including: Flying, Medical, Equipment, Administrative and Technical. The squadrons were disbanded in 1973 following the end of conscription. Sydney University Squadron changed its name to the New South Wales University Squadron in March 1967. It was disbanded on 31 October 1973. Source: RAAF Historical Section, Units of the Royal Australian Air Force: A Concise History. Volume 9: Ancillery Units. Canberra: Australian Government Publishing Service, 1995. ISBN 0-644-42802-3.