John was a member of the Australia Regular Army from 1953 to 1978 and the Citizens Military Forces from 1979 to 1984. He served in Malaya, New Guinea, the UK and Vietnam in various companies and platoons. 

John received an Australian Defence Medal and a Vietnamese Campaign Medal and on discharge had achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

He served as OC of 176AD for a short period also.

May he Rest in Peace.