816 Squadron cloth patch
Date2007
Object number00044936
NamePatch
MediumFabric
DimensionsOverall: 100 x 85 mm, 7.26 g
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Sea Power Centre Australia
DescriptionThis unofficial patch features the image of a blue-tongued lizard and the text, 'these are the cards we've been dealt'. It was designed by members of HMAS TOOWOOMBA's 816 Squadron Flight 5, deployed to the Middle East in 2007 and worn on their civilian clothes. The Squadron team of 16 Seahawk helicopters provided anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface surveillance. Their call sign was 'Bluetongue'.HistoryThe 816 Squadron operates 16 Sikorsky S-70B-2 Seahawk helicopters. The primary role of the Seahawk is to embark in the Navy's FFG and FFH frigates and provide anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface surveillance. The Seahawk extends the combat radius of the ship by finding, localising and attacking where appropriate, surface or submarine targets either independently or in conjunction with other forces. The Seahawk's main weapon is the MK 46 torpedo. The official 816 Squadron crest depicts the head of a Bengal tiger on a black field in allusion to its warlike and courageous qualities. The motto, 'Imitate the Action of the Tiger' is drawn from the extract of William Shakespeare's 'Henry V'.
During 816 Squadron's deployment in 2007, Flight 5 was deployed on HMAS TOOWOOMBA to the Middle East Area of Operations. HMAS TOOWOOMBA (FFH156) is the seventh ANZAC class guided missile frigate of MEKO 200 design to be built by Tenix Defence Systems at Williamstown, Victoria.SignificanceThis patch highlights the recent action of an Australian squadron in the Middle East. It is indicative of the pride 816 Squadron has in its deployment.
