Like many of the COs before him, CMDR King had served at the base about 15 years ago.

Since then he has gained well-rounded experience in operational roles on ships and on shore.

His operational career includes a number of public profile events including time as the supply officer aboard the Westralia – two years before the disastrous fire.

He was involved in the southern sea rescue of round-the-world yachtsman Tony Bullimore and was a part of the first ice fisheries patrol off Heard Island.

He spent two years with the submarine squadron at a time when women received the green light for postings aboard subs.

Cmdr King was the commander in the children overboard saga.

“I had my hours in front of the Senate Inquiry and I came out all right,” he said.

Following that he received a posting for three years in the UK, near where his wife Jacqui, now a captain in the Navy, was stationed.

He later spent six months as a supply officer in Baghdad, a task that carried an enormous amount of responsibility including being in charge of Australian personnel and vehicle movements.

“I was promoted to captain in theatre, which was quite a special thing,” he said.

“My posting to Albatross is wonderful. The command is extremely prestigious,” he said.

“Some things are similar to when I was here before. There are a few familiar faces and the deeply entrenched aviation culture is still strong and alive.

“It’s such a thrill to come back, I love this area,” he said.

During his two years at HMAS Albatross CMDR King wants to focus on fortifying the base’s financial future.

He also hopes to emphasise the importance of HMAS Albatross personnel as members of the Shoalhaven community.