Lest We Forget..
Susan Lee Felsche was a trailblazing Australian who made history as the first woman to die in active military service for the Australian Defence Force. Born in 1961 in Sydney, Felsche joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in 1983, driven by a passion for serving her country and a keen interest in aviation.

As a young corporal, she trained as an Air Defence Operator, a role that required precision, discipline, and courage. Her dedication to her duties and her trailblazing spirit earned her respect among her peers, marking her as a pioneer for women in the Australian military during an era when female participation in combat-related roles was still rare.

In 1987, at the age of 26, Felsche’s life was tragically cut short during a training exercise in the United Kingdom. While stationed at RAF Waddington, she was killed in a mid-air collision involving a Royal Air Force aircraft, becoming the first Australian servicewoman to die on active duty.

Her loss sent shockwaves through the military community and highlighted the inherent risks faced by service members, regardless of gender. Felsche’s legacy endures as a symbol of courage and sacrifice, inspiring future generations of women in the Australian Defence Force. Her name is honored in memorials, including the Australian War Memorial, where her service and sacrifice are remembered as part of the nation’s military history.

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