Our People in NSW
FLGOFF John “Ted” Danson
John is an Electronics Engineer with the 1 st Combat Communication Squadron based at RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales, providing radios and infield equipment for Air Force operations.
“Flying in aircraft is a great experience, but I think my job is just as exciting,” He said.
The Flying Officer started his career in the Air Force because he wanted to be a pilot.
“I went to the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) to become a pilot, but I never applied. While I was studying I fell in love with electronics and I’ve been happy ever since,” John said.
Since graduating from ADFA, John has continued training, learning the finer points of being an Air Force Officer. Later this year he will complete radar training and a joint tactical course.
“I’ve also done a tactical communication course, which all junior officers are sent on to get a wider understanding of what junior airmen go through,” he said.
Living on-base, John can be found in the Officers Mess where he enjoys one of his passions, playing the piano. His fellow officer’s like his skills as a pianist, however he seems to get the same request over and over again.
“Great Balls of Fire seems to be every one’s favourite because I get more requests for that one song than any other,” he said.
John’s also tries to get home to his parents farm where he help’s with the beef cattle and drive his four wheel drive and ride his motor cycles.
Continuing service with his Squadron, John hopes to get his first deployment overseas in the next 12 months, something he’s been holding out for since finishing at ADFA.
“I’ve been looking forward to getting overseas for some time now, and I just found out my Commanding Officer has loosely pencilled me in so pretty excited,” the Flying Officer said.