Sixty-eight aircraft are participating in a flypast above Buckingham Palace that includes two patriotic Australians in honour of His Majesty King Charles III.
Paul Shepherd of the Royal Australian Air Force and Lieutenant Daniel Cochrane of the Royal Australian Navy will be waving to the crowds of people rejoicing on the newly crowned King and Queen.
Both participants now serve as embedded members of British military units while on exchange in the country.
The fourth year that Warrant Officer Shepherd has been on exchange with the 51 Squadron of the Royal Air Force.
He has played a part in Her Majesty’s flypast for His Majesty The King’s Coronation will usher in a new monarch after celebrating The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last year.
Warrant Officer Shepherd stated, “It is great to see everyone down on the Mall cheering as you fly past.
“I am fortunate to have witnessed both the Jubilee and the Coronation here.
I am thrilled to participate in it because flypasts are rare for me. It is unique.
Similar sentiments are shared by Lieutenant Cochrane, a Merlin HM2 pilot who is now serving a three-year exchange with the Royal Navy’s 820 Squadron.
Lieutenant Cochrane commented, “Flying above the Palace is something I never anticipated doing.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Although I have taken part in a few flypasts in Australia, this is the first time I have come close to this.
“It is a significant occasion for the Commonwealth and the people of the United Kingdom.”
The two participants are eager to attend the event with their British friends and coworkers.
Lieutenant Cochrane continued a close ally like the British has provided an excellent opportunity for him to observe how another country conducts itself.
Lieutenant Cochrane remarked, “The Royal Navy has supported me and incorporated Commonwealth representatives in the Coronation flypast.
