By
CPL Simone Liebelt and FLTLT Mal Rankine
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RAAF
Base Edinburgh Airman of the Year CPL Jonathon Durrant with
his trophy.
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Photo
by CPL Craig Eager
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WHILE
he enjoys helping out his mates, Corporal Jonathon Durrant never
expected to be recognised for it with the RAAF Base Edinburgh
Airman of the Year award.
To his surprise, the avionics technician from No. 10 Squadron
received the accolade at a squadron parade on October 29.
CPL Durrant was presented with the trophy by Bruce Pitt, president
of 467/463 RAAF Squadrons Association, in recognition of his notable
achievements serving the local military and civilian communities.
The Association sponsors the annual base award in memory of airmen
who lost their lives while serving in 467 and 463 Lancaster Squadrons
during World War II.
In speaking of the achievements that earned him the award, CPL
Durrant said it came down to good teamwork and an enjoyment of
helping others.
“I toured the MEAO as part of the first 10SQN detachment
from April to July last year, which was a very rewarding experience
for me. It was all about working closely with my mates in an environment
where teamwork was essential,” he said.
After more than 10 years on the base, CPL Durrant has become involved
in helping the local community through volunteer work.
“I’m the coach and manager of both the junior and senior
cricket and junior Australian football teams with the Eastern
Park Football Club and am also involved in the XLR8 program, which
gives RAAF personnel an opportunity to act as a mentor for a high
school student, offering them guidance in their final school years,
as well as promoting the Air Force within the local community,”
he said.
Following the award presentation – which also included the
presentation of Australian Active Service Medals to several 10SQN
members – CPL Durrant joined his Squadron colleagues and
members of the Association in a celebratory barbecue.
