Lord recognises a familiar face

RESPECTS: The United Kingdom’s First Sea Lord, ADML Sir Alan West, pays his respects to the fallen at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Photos: ABPH Kade Rogers

G’DAY: ADML West spots a friendly face, POMUSN Brian O’Kane.

By ABPH Kade Rogers

When travelling abroad it’s always nice to run into an old mate. A familiar face spotted in a crowd of strangers can quite often make you feel at home.

ADML Sir Alan West, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff UK had an

unexpected surprise when he spied POMUSN Brian O’Kane while inspecting the RAN Band and Federation Guard at Russell Offices on his recent visit to Australia.

POMUSN O’Kane, a former member of the RN for 19 years, served under ADML West in the Royal Marine volunteer band in London and transferred to the RAN in November 2003.

After his inspection, ADML West called on Chief of Navy, ADML Chris Ritchie and Chief of the Defence Force, GEN Peter Cosgrove.

ADML West toured the Australian War Memorial where he laid a wreath on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Shown around by tourguide Peter Hugenot, ADML West was impressed by the world’s largest collection of Victoria Crosses and a spectacular sound and light show in the Anzac hall.

ADML West learned of the bravery of heroes like Ordinary Seaman Teddy Sheehan and his legacy, and was moved on hearing of the tragic demise of SGT Len Siffleet, who was betrayed and executed by the Japanese in 1943.

ADML West also toured Sydney where he attended a lunch at HMAS Watson hosted by CO CAPT Ian Middleton.

He then inspected the TENIX dockyard in Melbourne.

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