HONOUR, pride and patriotism could be felt in abundance as young and old celebrated the 60th anniversary of the commissioning of HMAS Albatross at Nowra.
More than 650 uniformed personnel took part in Ceremonial Divisions yesterday to mark the diamond jubilee of our only Royal Australian Navy (RAN) air station.
Even the rain did little to dampen the spirits of Navy personnel past and present as they gathered to take part in the milestone celebration.
HMAS Albatross Commanding Officer Captain Mark Sackley described the event as "very successful", with the heritage of the base represented by many guests and the future personified by the youth on parade.
"This is a significant milestone - a lot has happened in 60 years," Capt Sackley said.
"It was a pretty emotional experience to be a part of."
He said he was gratified to see veterans and members of the local Returned and Services Leagues (RSL) among the crowds gathered for the ceremonies.
"To see the young and the old come together was really humbling," he said,
"The anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on 60 years of history, but also to look to the future.
"We are expecting the arrival of a new suite of helicopters, with things set to get a lot busier, as well as the new helicopter training school."
The milestone was also a chance for the RAN to reflect on the strong relationship forged over the years between the base and the Shoalhaven community.
Chief of the Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane, reviewed the parade and addressed the gathered personnel at the historical marking of 60 years since the site was commissioned as the home of the RAN's Fleet Air Arm.
Among the guests were eight ex-commanding officers of Albatross.
The diamond jubilee celebrations will culminate with celebrations on October 26.
HMAS Albatross was commissioned in August 1948 and the 20th Carrier Air Group, including Sea Fury and Firefly aircraft operated by 805 and 816 Squadrons, arrived in Nowra in 1949.
In November 1950 they were joined by 808 and 817 Squadrons, also flying Sea Furies and Fireflies.
In 1955, Sea Venoms and Gannets arrived, requiring radar workshops and test facilities, and a new control tower was built in 1958.
In 1965 it was decided to buy American aircraft, McDonnell Douglas Skyhawks and Grumman Trackers, to replace the ageing British Gannets and Sea Venoms.
In recent years significant redevelopment has taken place, continuing the operation of HMAS Albatross and recognising its strategic importance as the sole RAN air station.