No, not April Fools…
The RNZAF turns 78 today.
The 1st of April 1937 was the date it became a seperate armed force. previously it was part of the New Zealand Army, and from 1923-1934 had been called the New Zealand Air Force (Territorails) and New Zealand Permanent Air Force. The name changed to RNZAF in 1934 but only because it received the title Royal from the King. It was still part of the army till 78 years ago today.
By: Dave Homewood - 1st April 2005 at 01:08
Interesting. Yes, it must be the financial year that means they all have the same birthday. Do any other air forces have april fool birthdays?
By: dhfan - 31st March 2005 at 17:03
Never thought of that…
The RAF was formed on the 1st of April 1918 and, I believe, is the oldest independent air force in the world.
By: allan125 - 31st March 2005 at 16:17
1st of April – not April Fool
“What is this fascination with the 1st of April?” probably because it is the beginning of a Government year, so they can set their annual budgets etc. 🙂
By: Jagan - 31st March 2005 at 16:07
Incidentally the ‘Indian Air Force’ was formed on the 1st of April 1933. When No.1 Squadron IAF was formed at Drigh Road in Karachi. That day was observed as teh IAF Day for many decades till the 70s it ws changed to another date.
What is this fascination with the 1st of April? I take it even the RAF Was formed or named on this date?
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March 31, 2005 at 1:26 pm