History of 409SQN AAFC

Number 9 Squadron was raised on the 24 November, 1941 in Ballarat. It was re-designated 9 Flight No 9 Flight (Ballarat) on 19 November 1945 but then disbanded in March 1947. On the 4th September 1947, 9 Flight was re-formed at Malvern Grammar School but again disbanded sometime after 1956.

A new 9 Flight was formed at 1959 at Sale Technical School. 9 Flight was then subsequently regraded as a town Flight in 1962. In 2001, the Air Training Corps (AIRTC) was renamed Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) and 9 Flight became 409 Squadron

409 Squadron Patch

The 409 Squadron patch features three stylized training aircraft. The training aircraft are a reflection of the home of 409 Squadron, RAAF Base East Sale. East Sale has a long history as training base with Central Flying School and Air Mission Training School (formally School of Air Navigation) being resident units since the 1940s. Recently, Officer Training School and the re-formed 1FTS (formally BFTS) have also relocated to RAAF East Sale.

Additionally, the choice of training aircraft is a reminder to all members of 409 Squadron that the unit represents their first steps towards their own goals. Whether this be within the ADF, aviation, or the wider community, 409SQN will foster the attributes required to succeed in life.

409 Squadron Banner

The 409 Squadron Banner was dedicated on the 22nd April 2007 at RAAF Base East Sale. The squadron banner is presented on an azure blue satin cloth. In each corner of the banner is the official flower of Victoria, Common Heath. Featured in the centre of the banner is the Sale Clock Tower. The clock tower was originally part of the colonial post officer built in 1884 and has long been synonymous with Sale. The clock tower is adorned on each side with an inwards facing black swan. The black swan is prevalent throughout Gippsland lakes area and are a common sight in Sale. The Squadron motto Simplex Optimus translated as Simply the Best is presented on a golden scroll.

Simply the Best

The 409 Squadron motto, Simplex Optimus or Simply the Best, represents the expectations of cadets and staff. All members of 409 Squadron are asked to give their best efforts to all their endeavors. This dedicated mindset reflects on the wider AAFC values of Honor, Honesty, Courgage, Integrity, Loyalty, Teamwork, and Citizenship

'If everyday you try your best, one day you will wake up, and realize you have become a success' BRIG E L Palmer, Australian Army