Our People in NSW
Alan Williams - Former Teacher trades classroom for ticket to the world
Nichols resident and former high school teacher Alan Williams sought adventure outside of the classroom. He joined the Navy and he’s now surrounded by sand in the Middle East.
Now a commander in the RAN, Alan drew on his teaching experiences to follow a career as a Training Systems Officer. His decision to trade the classroom for a life of adventure is not one he regrets.
“When I joined the Navy I was working as a high school teacher. I like to think that I traded a classroom for a ticket to the world,” Alan said.
“I’d certainly never have gotten to the Middle East if I’d stayed with the teaching job.”
Alan is the Senior Personnel Officer for the Australian Military Headquarters in the Middle East. His team is responsible for the management of all Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel in the Middle East.
His role requires his team to keep a track of all changes that occur in the operational arena and how this will impact on those coming into theatre and those returning home at the completion of their tours of duty.
“It’s a real buzz to be part of international affairs that most people only see on television.”
Alan reflects on his experience in the Middle East as a stark contrast to his childhood memories of growing up in British Columbia, Canada.
“This deployment is an experience like none other. As an ex-pat Canadian, I come from a place known for its ice and snow,” said Alan. “Over here, I’ve experienced temperatures over fifty degrees Celsius and had to dodge wild camels crossing the road.”
About 2500 ADF personnel are deployed in the Middle East and Afghanistan as part of Operation SLIPPER, Australia's military contribution to international campaigns against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.
“I am constantly in touch with all the Australian Task Groups throughout our area of operations and working with a great team to ensure that we have the right people, in the right place, at the right time,” Alan said.
He has high praise for his colleagues and the work they are achieving.
“The people I work with are real professionals. We are making a real difference over here and I am really proud to be a part of it,” Alan said.
Alan is not the first member of his family to join a defence force. His father was a Canadian Air Force pilot who later joined the Canadian Naval Reserve. Continuing the family line in defence is one of his sons - a sapper (Army Engineers) with the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment based in Townsville, Australia.
Aside from deploying to the Middle East, Alan’ personal highlight during his career was the opportunity to serve as the Captain of the Queen’s Guard at Buckingham Palace in 2000 whilst a member of Australia’s Federation Guard.
“Standing in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, in front of over 10,000 people and conducting the changing of the guard with the British Coldstream Guards was a real thrill,” Alan said.
Upon his return home to Canberra, Alan intends to take some time off to spend with his wife and two sons.