Born in New Waterford (Cape Breton), Nova Scotia.  John enlisted in the RCAF in 1951.  He was a member of the infamous "Down Home Gang" on Rec Spec Course number five, including both Bordens; young Hubbard; "Cussie Fells" and the "old leprechaun" himself.  John's personalized Irish accent; devilish smile; constant limericks; and "Top-O-the-Morning!" salutations made him a welcome addition to the Rec Spec fraternity.  He served on units, stations and bases across Canada, Europe and the Middle East.  Following his retirement in 1980, John went on to spend two more decades in uniform as a commissionaire in NS and PEI.  John is remembered for his stern advocacy in all matters "personal," which reflected his tough miner-town upbringing and firm Catholic convictions.  He was in no way a conformist without good reason for being so.