Rev Ira Menear (1901 - 1977). Born at Kapunda. Worked at the Kimba and Pt Neill mission stations on the west coast of South Australia before studying at the Brighton Training College and Adelaide University. Graduated B.A. Adelaide University 1928. After completing his theological training he was appointed to the Norwood Circuit before being appointed to take charge of the Methodist Inland Mission at Cloncurry. Minister at Crow's Nest, Gympie & Rockhampton 1936 - 1940. In 1940 he was accepted as a pilot officer in the RAAF, having been given leave of absence by the Methodist Conference. Menear enlisted RAAF air crew but was later transferred to the administrative staff. He rose from A.C.1 to the rank of Acting Wing Commander. He served in many parts of Australia, including the Darwin area. After the war Rev Menear took charge of the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Centre at Mount Osmond and later Mount Breckan, Victoria Harbour Rehabilitation Centre. B & W waist length studio portrait of Rev. Ira Menear dressed in his RAAF Flt. Lt. uniform."Seasons Greetings I Menear F/LT Control Officer Operations Room Pearce W.A."ira menear, methodist, minister, adelaide university, brighton training college, methodist inland mission, cloncurry, raaf, commonwealth rehabilitation centre

Craftsman David W O'Brien served in the Royal Corps of Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, and flew test flights in Vietnam with 161 Reconnaissance Flight (161 Recce) in 1965-66. His job was to ensure that instrument panels were functioning properly. This helmet was assembled for him by Corporal Peter D Menear, Air Radio Technician, Royal Australian Airforce, who was also serving in 161 Recce. Craftsman O'Brien requested that he have his own helmet, instead of having to be issued with one prior to each test flight and retuning it afterwards. Corporal Menear obliged.A flying helmet. Gentex/ 8415-782-3037. Is khaki in colour with a sun visor. It is fitted with a microphone at the front. 19 Large/ DSA100-4804 Gentex Corp. Microphone / M-33A/AIChelmet, vietnam, raaf, o'brien, 161 recce, menear