WHEN sending important packages overseas, most people look for a fast, secure carrier – and perhaps no one does that better than a United States Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
The bomber was the mode of transport Ipswich RSL Sub Branch Secretary Debbie Wadwell turned to after receiving an unusual letter earlier in the year from a deceased RAAF aviator’s grandson (Dave Russell) in the United States.
The letter read: “Hello, I am not sure who to talk to, but I was hoping you can help me. My grandfather Frank George Russell was a WWII and Vietnam vet for the RAAF.
“The reason I am reaching out is because my dad (his son) and I live in the United States and are not sure who to talk to.
“My dad and I both are veterans of the US Air Force, and I would really like to honour my grandfather so my kids can see how remarkable a man he was. Any help of guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.”
The RSL was more than happy to help – and to go one step further.
Not only did it provide the family with a wealth of information on their deceased relative, but it also organised a presentation frame that included replicas of Flight Lieutenant Russell’s impressive medals, as well as folded Australian and US flags laid into a shadow box.
Group Captain Paul Jarvis, Officer Commanding 82 Wing, solved the puzzle of how to organise delivery of the shadow box to the family by speaking with Master Sergeant Emily Luzum who accepted the role of delivering the shadow box and a Quilt of Valour to Mr Russell in Nebraska.
“This has been one of the most humbling yet amazing things in my life to be a part of,” Ms Wadwell said.
Mr Russell junior received the presentation and wrote back: “Thank you so much for this beautiful tribute to my grandfather.
“Words can’t fully express how much this means to me and our family.
“My grandfather was a remarkable man who lived his life with unwavering dedication to his country and his family.
“Seeing his legacy honoured in this way brings back so many memories of the wisdom, kindness, and strength he shared.
“We are so proud of his service and the life he lived, and it means the world to know that others recognise the impact he made.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the extraordinary efforts of the Ipswich RSL Sub Branch and Ms Wadwell in honouring his legacy and for keeping his spirit alive in such a meaningful way.
“Always remembering the sacrifices and service of veterans like my grandfather remind us of the enduring values they fought for and inspire us.”
Flight Lieutenant Frank Russell enlisted in 1941 and served until 1976 – a career that took him through World War II, the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency and the Vietnam War.
Flight Lieutenant Russell served two tours in the 1940s and 50s, with the United States Air Force’s 110th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron who were deployed to RAAF Base Amberley on a Bomber Task Force mission.
