Vale

Born in May 1948, Ian was a Bachelor of Engineering graduate before he sought a career in the Royal Australian Navy. He entered the RAN in June 1977 at the age of 29. At the time, age restrictions precluded direct entry into the Engineering category. Demonstrating early determination, he joined as an Instructional Technique (IT) Officer with the understanding that he could later transfer to the Engineering branch if found suitable.

His initial training at HMAS Cerberus was followed by a posting to HMAS Melbourne in January 1979. It was during this time that a sea ride in HMAS Onslow, then under the command of Geoff Anderson, sparked his passion for submarines a calling he would often good-naturedly attribute to Geoff Anderson.

Ian successfully achieved his goal, transferring to the General List as a Weapons Electrical Engineer (WE). He undertook submarine training in the United Kingdom and, upon returning to Australia, qualified at sea and was awarded his coveted Dolphins. He was promoted to Lieutenant Commander in July 1982.

In October 1982, Ian joined HMAS Onslow and by June 1983 was the Senior Officer during the submarine's SWUP refit. It was during this period that his profound sense of duty and care for his shipmates became evident. He took it upon himself to locate as many as possible of the officers and sailors involved in the tragic gassing incident aboard Onslow in March1981, ensuring they were aware of their follow-up medical checks and repatriation entitlements.