The Returned and Services League of Australia, Washington, DC

2011 Board of Governors and Office Holders: President - David Gudes, Vice President - Col. Jeff Quirk CSC and Bar, Secretary - Dave Ward, Treasurer - Kurt Lee, Program Chairman - Mario Mirarchi* Legal Advisor - Bill Bennett, Selection Committee Chairman - Edward Connor. Board Members: Steve Ching, Bob Cutler, Walt Dow, Harry McAlpine, Vivian McKay, Matt Prisutti, Patrick van Rooyen, Richard Southby, Jack Szalasny, Simon Willis.

When: Thursday, February 10. Time: Noon to 2:00 pm Where – Amenities room Embassy of Australia 1601 Massachusetts Ave Washington DC 20036 Guest Speaker – Mr. Richard Kirkland Topic - Tales from World War II Australia Biography: Richard C. Kirkland flew 103 combat missions in P-38 and P-47 fighters with the famed “Flying Knight” squadron in the southwest Pacific during World War II. He flew one mission with Charles Lindbergh who was teaching fuel economy during the war. After World War II, Richard participated in the atomic bomb test “Operation Greenhouse.” During the Korean War he flew 69 helicopter missions rescuing downed airmen from behind enemy lines and evacuating wounded to the 8055 MASH. After his military career he was a demonstration pilot for Hughes Aircraft where he later served in a management capacity. He documented his amazing experiences in sketches and paintings. After his retirement, these were published in magazines and five book