The following as written in the Association Bulletin - by George Gray

Wing Commander C.A. (Alan) Vardy No.420307 served as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner (WAG) in a 459 RAAF Squadron Hudson crew with Harry Hawkins as his pilot.  Harry later became famous as Air Vice Marshall OC of Ian Smith's Rhodesian Air Force post war, during the uprising leading to an independent Zimbabwe, under Mugabe.

No 459 played a most significant role, despite heavy casualties, in closing down the essential coast-crawling sea supply line for Rommel's advance beyond Alamein in the Middle East in 1942, and thereafter in harassing the Aegean Axis garrisons, Alan played his part in these operational tasks.  On return to Australia Alan served with No.84 Fighter Squadron in the South West  Pacific.

Post war he transferred to the permanent RAAF – Service No. 012713.  His Squadrons were No.1 Malaya and SE Asia, No.2, No 6, No.23 City of Brisbane, and QLD University Squadron; then there were postings to the Weapons Research Establishment, Woomera and Maralinga.  Later his non-flying service was mostly Air Intelligence, Administration and Recruiting of Point Cook  Cadets, Aircrew, Direct Officer Entry, Apprentices, WRAAF and Airmen (all categories).  He retired in 1972 as Wing Commander.  Unfortunately all his wartime records – log book, photos etc. were destroyed in a house fire, hence the absence of war photos and detail.

Alan survived more than his fair share of misfortunes with fortitude, unfailing hard work and loyalty to the Service and his wife Jean and children Philip and Joy.  His last years were extremely difficult  ending in a prolonged terminal illness.