We have been advised that Ian passed away in Sydney on Sunday at 88 years of age.
Our condolences are given to Robyn and family.
Ian graduated from RMC Duntroon in 1955 and subsequently served as a Platoon Commander in 4th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (4 RAR) before joining 1 Special Air Service Company (the forerunner of the SAS Regiment) as a founding member in 1957. He was appointed Adjutant 2RAR in 1959 and served in Malaya and Malaysia and also South Vietnam where he was Company Commander, B Company 6 RAR in 1966-67.
He is a graduate of the Pakistan Staff College, Quetta and travelled widely throughout Afghanistan during a particularly turbulent period in the late 1960’s. He is also a graduate of the Australian Joint Services Staff College.
In 1971 he took command of 7 RAR from Lt Col Ron Grey on the battalion’s return from Vietnam and in 1973 he was appointed Military Assistant to the CGS. Posting as an Instructor at the Joint Services Staff College followed and on promotion to Colonel in 1977, his last appointment in the ADF was as Colonel, Military Staff, Strategic International Policy at Defence Headquarters.
Ian is well known in national Australian and the Australian Defence Services Rugby circles for his Rugby prowess and success as a representative player, captain and coach.
His memory will live on with those who served with him.
Rest in Peace noble warrior your duty has been done.
