No 2 Squadron
No 2 Squadron (2SQN), the most decorated squadron in the RAAF, has a legacy we deeply cherish. 2SQN formed at Kantara, Egypt, in September 1916 as part of our Air Force’s predecessor, the Australian Flying Corps. The values of courage, dedication, teamwork and professionalism are the living principles we strive to impress on our aviators every day. More than a century ago, our forebears flew combat missions in wood and canvas aircraft. Today, our Squadron is equipped with the E-7A Wedgetail.
Gathered here are some of our 2SQN stories compiled as part of History and Heritage – Air Force’s Living History Program.
Frank Smith
Francis Ryan Smith was born on 23 July 1896 at Kangaroo Point in Brisbane, Qld, the son of William Smith and Bridget Ryan, and was raised in Toowoomba, Qld. On leaving school he became a bank clerk.
On 20 July 1915, Frank enlisted in A Company, 31st Battalion, beginning his service in defence of Australia. This was a journey that would see him wounded, promoted, and eventually piloting an SE.5a aircraft and becoming one of 2SQNs air aces.