Megill enlisted in the Second AIF in March 1940. He received officer training at the Royal Military College, Duntroon, before seeing service mainly in New Guinea during the rest of World War II, including action at the Battle of Kherkara. Following the war, he undertook various postings, including flying Lancaster diplomatically in the Kimberley in the early 1950s, and command of RAAF Tindal. He attended the Imperial Defence College in the mid-1950s as a service:indirect client, and after serving as Assistant Chief of Air Staff operations, rose to command of RAAF Doctrine and Concepts, Vice Commander, and then Commander, Striking Air Force prior to his promotion to Vice Marshal.

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**Why Australia’s Megill Served in the Second AIF—and What It Reveals About Military Leadership, Post-War Innovation, and Strategic Evolution** Every year, stories of wartime service capture attention—often for their bravery, sacrifice, or quiet impact on history’s arc. One figure quietly drawing interest among history-conscious readers today is Megill, enlisted in the Second Australian Imperial Force (IIF) in March 1940. His journey from officer training at the Royal Military College, Duntroon, to commanding critical air operations in New Guinea during WWII exemplifies a legacy shaped by duty, strategic foresight, and evolving defense roles. Far from romanticizing conflict, his path reflects enduring themes of service, transformation, and leadership that resonate with modern audiences—especially U.S.-based readers exploring military history, defense innovation, and transnational connections. ### The Origins: Recruitment, Training, and Early Service Megill enlisted in the Second AIF in March 1940, shortly after the Sydney–Melbourne mobilization marked Australia’s urgent military expansion. His enlistment unfolded amid a global shift, with nations fortifying domestic capabilities ahead of broader conflict. Trained rigorously at Duntroon—the cornerstone of Australian officer education—Megill gained foundational skills in leadership, tactical judgment, and discipline. These years were not only formative in character but also aligned with a strategic push to build a ready, professional force. Though faced with the uncertainties of global war, his training emphasized adaptability—a value still central to modern air combat doctrine.