LINGHAM, William Alexander
| Other Name: | JOHNSTON-LINGHAM, William Alexander |
|---|---|
| Service Number: | 136512 |
| Enlisted: | 18 August 1943, Sydney, NSW |
| Last Rank: | Leading Aircraftman |
| Last Unit: | RAAF Eastern Area Headquarters (Sydney) |
| Born: | Manly, New South Wales, Australia, 31 July 1925 |
| Home Town: | Mosman, Municipality of Mosman, New South Wales |
| Schooling: | Knox College, Scots College |
| Occupation: | Student |
| Memorials: |
World War 2 Service
| 18 Aug 1943: | Enlisted Royal Australian Air Force, Leading Aircraftman, 136512, RAAF Eastern Area Headquarters (Sydney), Sydney, NSW | |
|---|---|---|
| 19 Jun 1947: | Discharged Royal Australian Air Force, Leading Aircraftman, 136512, RAAF Eastern Area Headquarters (Sydney) |
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Son of William O LINGHAM, 33A Lower Avenue Road, Mosman, New South Wales
William is a veteran of the Second World War.
Just weeks after turning 18 and while still a student at Scots College in Sydney, William enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Although he had wanted to join as a radio direction finder, he was enlisted as a trainee technician. William underwent his initial training in Sydney, followed by further technical training at No. 1 School of Technical Training in Melbourne. William was then retrained as a flight mechanic, completing a course at No. 1 Engineering School before being posted to the Air Gunnery School. In 1945, William was posted to Morotai with No. 9 Repair and Salvage Unit where he supported the Australian campaigns in Borneo. After the war ended, William was transferred to No. 381 Base Squadron as part of the British Commonwealth Occupation Forces in Japan.
In June 1947, William was discharged from the RAAF. He says he enjoyed the mateship and travel opportunities while serving.
William is married to Marilyn and they have 6 children and 7 grandchildren. The couple live on their 5-acre property in Western Australia. William has a real affinity with their animals.
And the secret to William’s long life? His healthy lifestyle, staying active and having a positive outlook.
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