Ipswich’s personnel capability specialist Corporal Jennifer Pearsall plays an integral role in keeping aircraft flying to and from the ADF’s main operating base in the Middle East region.
On her first operational deployment, the 36-year-old mother of two, is responsible for the communication of vital flight planning information within the Air Task Group.
“I provide the communication link between the aircrew and ground support teams in the C-130J detachment to ensure everything runs smoothly and aircraft can fly in support of operations,” Corporal Pearsall said.
“My role is imperative to ensuring all links to each mission flow seamlessly. Communication is the key to success.”
Corporal Pearsall is a third-generation member of the airforce.
“My father, Robert Saunders, joined the RAAF as an air combat officer in 1972 and served right up until 2009,” she said.
“And my grandfather, Jeffrey, served as a pilot in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War before he immigrated to Australia in 1961.”
Corporal Pearsall has enjoyed her deployment on Operation Accordion but is looking forward to returning to her unit at No.35 Squadron.
On her arrival home she will be reunited with sons Thomas, 6, Grayson, 3, and her husband Leading Aircraftsman Tim Pearsall, who is posted to No. 23 Squadron as a motor mechanic.
“I am looking forward to the big hugs my boys will give me when we are reunited at the airport,” Corporal Pearsall said.
“I’m also looking forward to the simple things, like the coffee my husband makes me each morning and sitting in my backyard watching the boys play.”
She is committed to raising awareness for the Children’s Tumour Foundation.
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