Tip of Propeller : BE2c

Propeller tip. Portion of propeller off B.E.2c machine number 4312, one of the first aircraft taken by No. 67 (Aust) Squadron RFC.

The B.E.2c was a twin seater, tractor biplane with a four bladed propeller. It was powered by a 90hp RAF 1a 8-cylinder engine giving it a maximum speed of 72 miles per hour (116 km/h) at 1980 metres. The aircraft was armed with two machine guns and had a modified wing and tail configuration designed to provide a stable reconnaissance platform. It was used for photo reconnaissance, as a light bomber and as a Home Defence fighter against dirigibles. No. 67 (Aust) Squadron RFC (titled No. 1 Squadron AFC from 18 January 1918) were equipped with BE2c's in June 1916 after arriving in Egypt for service in the Palestinian theatre. However these aircraft began to be replaced in December 1916 with B.E.2e's.

The item is associated with the service of Lieutenant Leslie William Sutherland MC DCM MID. Sutherland was born in Murrumbeena, Victoria on 17 December 1892. He enlisted as a Private in 1 Signal Troop, ANZAC Mounted Division on 19 August 1914 but was a Corporal on embarkation on 20 October 1914. Sutherland was promoted to Sergeant on 22 May 1916 and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous gallantry in action on 31 August. He was promoted to Second Lieutenant and transferred to 1 Light Horse Regiment on 6 September and was promoted to Lieutenant on 21 December. On 15 June 1917 Sutherland was transferred from Base Signals Depot to Royal Flying Corps Rafa for duty. He was then attached to No. 67 (Aust) Squadron RFC (officially titled No. 1 Squadron AFC from 19 January 1918) on 13 July 1917 before being formally taken on strength on 14 August as a Flying Officer (observer). Sutherland was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry and devotion to duty in the field on 1 December 1917. On 1 November 1917 Sutherland relinquished his appointment as a Flying Officer to be the Squadron’s Recording Officer. He resumed duty as a Flying Officer on 13 July 1918 but trained to become a Flying Officer (pilot) during the latter half of 1918. Sutherland graduated as a Flying Officer (pilot) on 20 January 1919. He returned to Australia on 5 March 1919 aboard the Port Sydney and had his military appointment terminated on 16 June 1919.