Handler swaps dog for Hornet

Leading Aircraftman Paul Nancarrow is briefed by Flight Lieutenant Marq Saunders before his flight in a Hornet. Photo by CPL Craig Sharp

By SGT Ralph Miller and SQNLDR Mick Kelly

LONELY nights, mosquitoes, snakes, rain and long shifts are some of the challenges that face the Military Working Dog handlers at RAAF Base Townsville.

This stoic group of quiet achievers work many hours and difficult shifts and provide invaluable security to the base.

The hard work and dedication of these members was recognised recently during Exercise High Sierra, with a MWD handler offered the chance of a lifetime – a ride in one of the aircraft he spends those long nights protecting.

Leading Aircraftman Paul Nancarrow was chosen by his Security Officer, Flight Lieutenant Glenn Motum, as the lucky member to take the ride of his life.

LAC Nancarrow passed his medical, was fitted with flying gear, briefed on safety, then it was up and away with Flight Lieutenant Marq Saunders and his F/A-18.

“It was impossible to describe the feeling seeing the Great Barrier Reef from 400m and inverted in an F/A-18 Hornet doing speeds of 300-600 knots and hitting six ‘Gs’ doing loops in the sky,” LAC Nancarrow said.

His 45-minute flight was a “dream come true” and a memory he said he would never forget.

He and the team at RAAF Base Townsville greatly appreciated 2OCU’s offer of the flight.

For LAC Nancarrow the nights around the base guarding aircraft won’t be so lonely now as they are filled with thoughts of just what these machines can do.

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