Personal Profile

Rodney Paul Yeomans

Rodney Paul Yeomans (Yoey)
Born Melbourne, 24 January 1958
Enlisted: 4 March 1975
Discharged: 20 August 1995

Initial Trade: Operator Keyboard and Radio.
Rank attained: Sgt

In 1975 he undertook the first of two experimental induction courses held by the Squadron at Swan Island to pre select unit members. After initial and trade training he was posted to 596 Sig Tp where he served mainly as a field operator using single channel HF equipment and off line cypher to provide long range patrol communications via CW.

During his time in the Squadron he served in a number of troops depending on the organizational structure. These included: Training Troop, 596 Sig Troop, 2 Commando Sig Troop and Commando Sig Troop. He fulfilled such roles as operator, patrol commander, instructor and Troop Sergeant. He also served as a section commander with 6 Platoon, 2 Commando Coy during 1990-91.

Specialist Courses successfully completed included: Basic parachutist (151 descents), Static line Dispatcher, Small Craft Handler, Shallow Water diver, Roping and Rappelling Instructor, Mountain Leader 4, Unarmed Combat, Demolitions User, Commando Patrol Medic, Small Scale Raids and Commando Raid Commander.

Awards: The Defence Force Medal, The Reserve Force Medal and the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal.

He left the Squadron to undertake sailing adventures on his yacht. As at 2008 he lives in Queensland and works for Queensland Transport as a Boat Harbour Controller, holding a qualification as a Master IV for commercial vessels. He also volunteers his time to the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard as does one of his former OC's, Sam Smalley.