Robbie takes a long look

By Andrew Stackpool

RAF Chief Technician Lynden Stamper deployed with an AP-3C crew while on Exercise Long Look.

Photo by CPL Greg Walls

CHIEF Technician Lynden “Robbie” Stamper, from the Joint Helicopter Command at RAF Base Benson, reckons he has found an unexpected advantage to being “down under”.

Chief Technician Stamper is currently employed at RAAF Base Edinburgh as part of the UK contingent involved in Exercise Long Look 05 (LL05).

He is involved with the maintenance of the RAF Merlin Mk3 and Puma helicopters operated by Nos. 28 and 33 Squadrons, but spent many years working with Hercules aircraft.

“I know the Allison engine [fitted to the RAF’s C-130s] reasonably well. It’s basically the same engine [fitted to the AP-3C], but upside down,” he said.

He deployed to No. 24 Squadron as part of the UK contingent and is examining trade training methods that could be used by the RAF on his return.

“I see the need for cross fertilisation of information on operational tasks and systems within the armed services due to the increasing number of joint operations with which we are tasked,” he said. “I have applied for Long Look several times and am delighted I have finally made it.

“I joined the RAF in 1976 and came to Australia in 1978 on Hercules support, although things have changed [here since then].”

His tour with No. 92 Wing has not disappointed.

“I have hosted [Australian] Long Lookers in the past and have a good idea how you operate,” he said. “You have a smaller Air Force than ours and a much, much bigger country.

“I found the similarities about how we both operate a bit startling at first, as are some of the differences. Your privatisation of roles is a subject of heated discussion and I’ll reserve judgement until I have been here longer and I have a better understanding of the situation.

“I think the RAAF has an excellent esprit de corps. Your people are friendly, hard working and totally focused on the task being completed on time and to a high standard.”

As part of his investigations into technical training methods, he received permission to deploy with a No. 92 Wing detachment to RAAF Base Darwin.

“I am lucky to see them operate out of area and see how they match their roles to their location at Darwin. It has been an excellent experience. It’s a pleasure to see a well-motivated team of workers in action doing what they all thoroughly enjoy. They work hard to achieve success, tempered with a level-headed approach to their tasks and missions.”

He said he was made to feel welcome in Australia by Warrant Officer Kevin Francis, his No. 24 Squadron counterpart, now in the UK, and the staff at Edinburgh.

“Warrant Officer Francis provided home comforts such as kettles, irons, fridge, beers – I left him bitter, he left me lager – tea, coffee, etcetera.

“The chaps here [at RAAF Base Edinburgh] are some of the best troops I have served with.

“Their enthusiasm for the job is beyond reproach. They are friendly, approachable and have a wicked sense of humour.

“They are always ready to answer questions about their Air Force and its relationship to their way of life.”

Chief Technician Stamper returns to his home base on September 25.

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