Our People in SA
Andrew Latham - Back from Desert Duty
The Leading Aircraftsman is just back from a Middle East tour of duty. He was part of a 170-strong Air Force detachment operating surveillance patrols over the Persian Gulf and Iraq.
Andrew has specialised in mechanical work with engines and airframes. “The Orions are a great aircraft to work on,” Andrew said. “The air-crews build up a trust with the maintainers to bring them back safely … the aircraft have to go up in top shape.”
Andrew joined the RAAF at 36 — after 18 years as a sheet metal worker. He found himself at recruit training with rookies half his age. “I was a bit worldlier and I knew they were telling us things for a reason.”
He said wife Danielle, 36, backed his career change. “We spoke about it over the years, she was fully supportive,” he said.
The Banksia Park High School graduate said that now he’s home, he would load his pack and tent and head to Burra Creek with sons Shane, 13, Dale, 11, and Brody, 8. “They’ll be itching to go outside!”
Some 1400 members of the Australian Defence Forces remain on duty in the Middle East as part of Operation Catalyst, the Australian Government’s contribution to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Iraq. Working with the Iraqi Government and coalition forces, Australian military personnel are continuing to work for a more secure environment and assist with national rehabilitation programs.