The Squadron’s 30-year reunion, the first gathering for the group since their tour of duty in Vietnam, was organised by Tamworth’s John Parsons in conjunction with Mal Antaw from Kirra Beach and Peter Amos of Willowbank, Queensland.

Mr Parsons said the weekend provided old friends with an opportunity to share memories, swap stories and pay tribute to comrades from the No 9 Squadron who never returned home.

Those who attended the reunion first gathered at the Tamworth RSL Club on Friday evening.

“A lot of people were hesitant,” Mr Parson said.

“They weren’t sure how they’d be greeted by old comrades and how they’d feel but it went well.”

Saturday’s address by Wing Commander Brian Dirou, a former CO of the now-disbanded No 9 Squadron, was followed by a service at the Vietnam War Memorial in Marius St. Reverend Ian Bailey from Uralla, himself a member of the No 5 Squadron of the RAAF, led the service, during which a wreath was laid and the eight names on the roll of honour read out.

The parade then marched to the RSL Club for the reunion dinner, where a total of 236 people were in attendance.

Mr Parsons said it was a very emotional weekend for the returned serviceman.

“It was an emotional weekend but a very successful weekend.”.

“I don’t think I heard one complaint, except about self-inflicted injuries after the dinner,” Mr Parsons laughed.

“There was a lot of history, a lot of old times and a great deal of interest.”

Mr Parsons said so successful was the weekend that the No 9 Squadron have already planned another reunion for Canberra in two years time.