from Moree Champion
World War II’s only indigenous fighter pilot has been honoured in a moving ceremony in Boggabilla with a large crowd paying their respects.
Leonard Victor Waters flew his Kitty Hawk plane, with ‘Black Magic’ painted on the fuselage, in more than 100 hours of combat flying and 95 operational sorties.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans and Services Association NSW president and national vice-president, David Williams, said it was important for all Australians to remember their ancestors who fought for their country.
“We’re here for Len,” Mr Williams said.
Many groups and individuals laid wreaths in the pilot’s memory, including his wife, family, friends, organisations and local politicians.
Representatives from all the military services, the Army, Navy and Air Force, conducted the formal aspect of the service.
Leonard Waters enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in August, 1942.
It was not until November 1944, however, that he was posted to the 78th squadron to fly a plane, after facing a long struggle with racial prejudice to get in the air.
The hymn Amazing Grace was sung towards the end of the ceremony by indigenous pastor Ray Minniecon, who acted as chaplain for the ceremony.
Many people joined in singing the hymn, with voices continuing to join in with the nation’s national anthem, Advance Australia Fair, played soon after.
Indigenous veterans and ex-servicemen travelled from all over NSW, Canberra and Queensland to attend the ceremony for their comrade.
Leonard Victor Waters was born on June 20, 1924, and died August 24, 1993.
He was buried in St George, Queensland.
His wife and six children survive him.
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