AIR FORCE

Hokitika Guardian, 18 December 1929, Page 6

AIR FORCE

CHANGE IN TITLES. INCREASED PERSONNEL. CHRISTCHURCH, Dec. 17. 'l’lie change of titles in both the permanent and territorial branches of the New Zealand Air Force from those denoting military rank to the equivalents used in the Royal Air Forcq has been authorised in the December General Orders issued by Majo r-General R. Young, General Officer Commanding in New Zealand. These changes were predicted some time ago by the Director of Air Services, Wing Commander S. GrantDalton, The titles which will be used from now onwards are, the equivalent military ranks being shown last in each instance:—• Wing Commander. Lieutenant-Colonel. Squadron. Leader. Major. ‘ Flight Lieutenant. Captain. Flying Officer. Lieutenant. Pilot Officer. Second Lieutenant. The Air Force will still remain a part of the military forces of the Dominion. The non-commissioned ranks have also been brought into line with those in use by the Royal Air Force, and in future privates will be ranked as air< raftsmen. The establishment of the New Zealand Air Force has also been altered, providing for an increased personnel. It now provides for fortyseven men other than officers. There is provision for nine warrant officers and for thirty-eight flight sergeants, sergeants, corporals, leading aircraftsmen. aircraftsmen and aircraft apprentices. The new establishment provides for two warrant officers and twenty-two others ranks as aero-engine fitters at the Wigratn Aerodrome and two warrant officers and Jive other ranks in a similar capacity at the Hobsouvillc air base. One warrant officer and seven other ranks are provided for in the rigging department at the Wigram Aerodrome, and one warrant officer and four riggers at Hobsouvillc. One boatbuilder, who will rank as a warrant officer, is provided for at Hobsouvillc, and each station is provided with one warrant officer as a ledger-keeper and one storeman. The enlistment of fifteen lads as aircraft apprentices is also notified. These will remain on probation for one year, and, if their service is satisfactory, will then have their appointments confirmed.