Sergeant David Humphry was only 16 when he joined the Royal Australian Navy as a firefighter, a decision that would set the course for five decades of military service. From the outset, he embraced every challenge and opportunity the Navy offered. 

Now, as he retires from service 50 years on, Sergeant Humphry’s career is like a living chronicle of Defence history, from the pomp of royal celebrations to the grit of emergency response, from Navy ships to Air Force bases.

Sergeant Humphry fondly recalls turning 19 just before entering Portsmouth, England, for the 1977 Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.

“Side-by-side we lined up with 200 Commonwealth ships,” he said.

“As the Britannia sailed past, we could just see Her Majesty’s small white glove waving. We yelled ‘hip hip hooray’ and waved our caps in the air.

“That was a highlight – representing Australia.” 

Life at sea brought moments of pride, but also danger. As a firefighter on HMAS Melbourne, he recalled responding to incidents, including witnessing a live ejection from an A-4 Skyhawk.

“The jet blast effect was coming up out of the flight deck and the next minute there was a mighty ‘bang’ noise,” Sergeant Humphry said.

'That was a highlight – representing Australia.'

“We turned to look up to the front of the flight deck and there was mustard-colour smoke. We had just seen the ejection.” 

When the Navy retired its fixed-wing capability in 1984, Sergeant Humphry transferred to the Royal Australian Air Force, continuing as a firefighter across postings to RAAF Bases Pearce, Richmond, Sale, Amberley and Williamtown, and two deployments to the Middle East. 

He responded to aircraft incidents, bushfires and humanitarian tasks. Throughout, he emphasised the fundamentals of communication, teamwork and safety. 

“When the crash alarm or air horn goes off, as a fire controller you’ve got 30 seconds to be on radio,” Sergeant Humphry said.

“You get all that information, hop in the truck, repeat the information and your crews are already listening. 

“We were always on the go … you follow the emergency all the way until you see the crew physically exit the aircraft.”

His skillset extended far beyond firefighting. Over the years, he served as a Navy diver, unit safety advisor, unit photographer and firefighting instructor. Mentoring younger aviators became a defining part of his later career.

“My advice to junior aviators is to take every opportunity where they can do advanced training … keep learning about equipment and procedures.” 

Service to community has been just as central to his life as service in uniform. A Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, Justice of the Peace, RSL member and advocate for youth programs, he has raised thousands of dollars for charity and participated in national initiatives supporting men’s mental health. His involvement in international triathlons and state-level sport further reflects his drive and discipline.

Now transitioning from service, Sergeant Humphry remains focused on supporting veterans, strengthening community ties and giving back wherever he can. 

His career across the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force stands as a testament to resilience, loyalty and a lifelong dedication to helping others. 

“I am proud to defend the people of Australia, very proud to put my uniform on, proud to wear my three medals and proud to wear my uncle’s medals on Anzac Day.”