Page 11 - William B. Lake

Bill & Daphne at the Air Trainees ball at Chatswood (August 1942)

We have very little record of Bill’s last weeks prior to his final mustering for travel, but we know
from local newspaper reports that he had about a week’s leave back at Kempsey with his
extended family after completion of his training. The Kempsey community also celebrated the
imminent postings of serviceman from their region by holding an event at the community hall. Bill
was present for that event and would have appreciated the community farewell.
In the following photo which was taken at Bill’s parents’ residence at the Fire Station at Kempsey,
Bill is in his RAAF aircrew uniform with trainee cap. Daphne is wearing a golden “wings” pendant
that was a gift from Bill at their wedding (Boxing Day 1941).

Daphne with Bill in the backyard of the Kempsey Fire Station