John Miles (left) enjoys a laugh with Mr Richard Allcroft during his farewell after almost 40 years with the Department of Defence.

Senior Configuration Inspector Mr John Miles retired on November 8 after almost 40 years service with the Department of Defence.

After joining in April 1961, John served as storeman at the RAN stores at Woolloomooloo, Garden Island and Bunnerong. He became an inspector (stores) in 1972, commencing a period of sea service that betters most of us in uniform.

During this time John conducted stores audits and configuration validations on board ships ranging from HMAS ANZAC (battle class), Darings, DDGs, DE and FCPBs, often when deployed.

Like most inspectors during deployments, they became part of the ship's crew, with John remembering some memorable times such as HMAS BRISBANE's deployment for the Spithead review in 1977.

Some of the tales that could be told were documented in a series 'A Civvy at Sea', while articles printed in the Supply Newsletter during 1996 saw him receive the publisher's prize.

John also received a Fleet Commander's commendation in 1985 for his efforts in the decommissioning of HMAS YARRA.

More recently, John served as OIC of the combined Navy and civilian staffed MCCA Field Ops in Sydney, having coordinated the major move of the previous SOAP/SIR team from Zetland to the field ops location at Garden Island.

He also managed the MCCA assistance and outfitting program for HMA ships LEEUWIN and MELVILLE and was presented with a letter of appreciation by CMDR Trevor Ruting (Director General of Maritime Support) prior to his departure.

John and wife Judy will continue to be closely associated with the Navy through son Chris (a LSB in the west) and daughter Jane who is married to POMT Ian Arnott (currently on HMAS LAUNCESTON).

John now also looks forward to a spot of fishing while finding time as vice-president of St Mary's Rugby League Club.