Long career of learning

More than 40 years ago, a recruit found himself questioning his decision to enlist while facing the challenges of initial training at Kapooka.

WO2 Raymond Waghorn is glad he persevered. His many years of service were recognised last month with a Federation Star, presented by Chief of Joint Capabilities, Lt-Gen Susan Coyle, at the Defence Force School of Signals (DFSS).

“It’s amazing how time, training and friendships formed along the way can change your perspective,” WO2 Waghorn said.

His initial commitment grew into a rewarding and fulfilling military career in the Royal Australian Corps of Signals and the Department of Defence.

“I still feel and think I am 20 years old. However, the body occasionally reminds me otherwise,” he said.

WO2 Waghorn could not have sustained the impressive service record alone, paying tribute to his spouse, Jane, and daughters Georgia and Eloise.

On the day of the presentation ceremony, Jane also reminded him of the passage of time.

“She’s earned the right to be cheeky after so many years of support,” he said.

WO2 Waghorn said he looked back fondly on his early years in Defence, including training at the DFSS, his first posting and first deployment.

He learnt the standards and professionalism required in communications security, summarised as ‘no friends in crypto’, and still in use today.

At 2 Sig Regt, he began in the line troop before progressing to roles as an operator keyboard, radio and cipher. During his first four years, WO2 Waghorn travelled to almost every state and territory across Australia, supporting the regiment.

Another highlight was supporting the 75th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli.

His first deployment, on Operation Bel Isi, opened WO2 Waghorn’s eyes to broader perspectives. Regular contact with Larrane, a Papua New Guinean religious sister, was the start of a strong friendship.

“Sister Larrane gave me a sense of service, community and understanding of others through a different lens, positively influencing me and my Defence career,” he said.

Empathetic leadership continued with WO2 Waghorn’s service in the 2003 bushfires emergency response, where he learnt about the dedication of reservist personnel.

“I am still amazed by reservist members – people from all walks of life,” he said. 

“It took me many years to appreciate fully that reservist members face different challenges.”

After becoming a reservist in 2007, WO2 Waghorn commenced working in secure communications for the Department of Defence.

The main lesson he shared was learning from new people and experiences.

“Every person I’ve met has in some way provided me support and helped shape my thinking,” he said.

“Put your hand up for a task. Sometimes they are hard, sometimes they are good. However, you will learn from every new exposure.”