Interest Being Shown In New Air Force Auxiliaries

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22757, 1 October 1948, Page 4

Interest Being Shown In New Air Force Auxiliaries

Interest in the recently-announced Territorial Air Force and the Air Force Reserves, for which applications were called by the Government, Is indicated by the demand experienced at the Chief Post Office, Gisborne, Tor enlistment forms. Officials today stated that the demand for the forms had been fair, a number of men taking several forms, apparently to be filled in by friends. Applications are required by October 15. Members of any of the regular forces and their reserves, except the existing Air Force Reserve, are not eligible for enlistment. Members of the Territorial Air Force, and of the active and general reserves, will be liable for mobilisation in time of war or imminent national danger. The Territorial Air Forces will be recruited initially from officers and airman who served in the British Commonwealth Air Forces during the Second World War. Present indications are that squadrons will be formed only in the four main centres, and it would appear that the Territorial Air Force will have no place in Gisborne, at least initially. The active reserve also will be composed of men who have completed service with British Commonwealth Air Forces. They will be required to undertake annual training not normally exceeding 14 days. The initial period of engagement will be for three to five years and may be extended as mutually agreed. Officers and airmen will be required in most trades, but notice is given that is not anticipated that any flying practice for aircrew in the active reserve wilT be possible in the fifst year. General reserve membership involves no training obligations. Officers and airmen from all branches and trades will be eligible for enlistment and discharge will be automatic at 55 years. Members will retain their discharge medical categories.