Alan joined the RAAF in December 1942. After initial training at Somers Alan was selected for pilot training and posted to No. 10 Elementary Flying Training School, Temora. His first posting was to Mount Gambier as a staff pilot at the time of the Japanese mini submarine scare. They were sent to look for evidence of refuelling and 50 miles off the coast Alan spotted what they thought was an oil slick. At about 80 metres above the water Alan executed a steep turn and the port motor suddenly stopped. Alan takes up the story.