By CAPT Drew McKinnie
One
of the Navy’s larger than life characters, CMDR David Charles
Allen, passed away on November 25 after a battle with cancer.
Dave was an extrovert and talented officer, whose contribution
to Navy was enormous. He served as a junior officer in HMA Ships
Melbourne, Vampire and Stalwart, then in Ovens and Oxley.
In Otway, Otama, Ovens and Platypus he served as Navigator, Sonar
Officer XO and Ops Officer.
His UW expertise was a great asset in Torrens and Perth, and as
PWO Directing Staff at Watson. The seagoing highlight of Dave’s
career was Command of HMAS Dubbo, where his training and fishing
skills were legendary.
After service at the San Diego ASW School, he provided outstanding
support at Navy Systems Command as Director Navy Regulatory and
Safety Policy. Dave is survived by his wife, Karen.
Bon voyage, friend.
