Frank McNamara (RAAF officer)

Frank McNamara (4 April 1894 – 2 November 1961) was an Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest award for gallantry "in the face of the enemy" that can be awarded to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces. He was the first and, as of 2023, the only Australian aviator to be awarded the VC.

Born in Rushworth, Victoria, McNamara enlisted in the Australian Flying Corps (AFC) in 1916 during World War I. He served in the Middle Eastern theatre, flying reconnaissance and ground attack missions. He earned his VC for rescuing a fellow pilot, Captain (later Air Vice-Marshal) Donald Rutherford, who had been forced down behind enemy lines near Gaza on 20 March 1917. Under heavy enemy fire, McNamara landed his Martinsyde G.100, picked up Rutherford, and flew him back to base, all while his aircraft had sustained damage.

After the war, McNamara played a significant role in the formation of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in 1921, transferring from the AFC. He held various senior positions within the RAAF, including Director of Training and Air Member for Personnel.

During World War II, McNamara served in a senior administrative role, focusing on personnel and training matters. He retired from the RAAF with the rank of Air Vice-Marshal in 1946. He is remembered not only for his extraordinary act of bravery but also for his contribution to the development of the RAAF as a modern air force.