Revisiting secrets of barracks
Veterans from around world reunite
MORE than 135 electronic warfare veterans are heading back to the Borneo Barracks military base this weekend to attend a reunion of what was previously known as the Joint Telecommunications School and renamed as Defence Force School of Signals - Electronic Warfare Wing”
The military base at Cabarlah has always been a bit of a mystery, especially because the Joint Telecommunications School was where specialist Army, Navy and Airforce personnel were trained in the art of intercepting and transcribing foreign military communications.
Now that so many decades have passed, the veterans are able to share their stories.
About 780 veterans from all over the world have reunited on Facebook in the lead-up to the reunion at the barracks and the Farmer’s Arms Tavern, Cabarlah tomorrow, and about 135 will attend the event.
“Back then it was all about Morse Code and foreign languages. Technological changes have meant that Morse Code is pretty much a novelty skill now,” says Warrant Officer Jon Park, Sergeant Major of the current school, Defence Force School of Signals - Electronic Warfare Wing.
“Even within the wider Defence Force, Joint Telecommunications School students were regarded differently. Other military people mistakenly called us spies, because we couldn’t talk about our jobs,” Air Force veteran Maria Suarez said.
“Because we couldn’t tell anyone – not our family or our other friends – naturally we formed very tight friendships amongst ourselves.”
According to veteran Robert Tenaglia, “None of us were really prepared for the challenge that was ahead of us when we started. The job was so full-on and serious.
“It was also immensely exciting. Working in a specialised area of operations gave us a sense of satisfaction and ambition. We would go to work every day knowing that we never quite knew what might be put in front of us and it was vital that we got it right.”
The veterans attending the reunion share the view that the people they served with are like family.
“No matter where you go in Australia, there is always someone you can reunite with. This reunion is bringing the family back together in one place,” says Air Force Flight Lieutenant Cinda Skye.
Another veteran Jason Binns says “I’ve missed the camaraderie of like-minded people since I left the army.”
Sheryl Smith is travelling from Sweden to attend the reunion.
“This reunion is an amazing chance to take a walk down memory lane and pick up where you left off,” she said.
“We’ll laugh at the dumb things we did – after all, we were kids when we joined. Mostly I’m looking forward to spending time with the people who were a huge part of my life.”
Western District RSL President, Max Foot said it was important for ex and serving military members to be able to reunite.