19 November 2020
A keen golfer and a model train hobbyist, Squadron Leader Stephen Lampard calls south-east Queensland his home as he heads towards retirement from his 50-plus year career in military aviation.
Born in Winchester, United Kingdom, Squadron Leader Lampard arrived in Australia with his family in late 1967 and with an interest in aeroplanes and model trains, began looking for an apprenticeship.
During year 10, he decided on an aviation career and was selected to join the ADF.
More than 50 years later, Squadron Leader Lampard is still working with Air Force in the critical role of Capability Management and Capability Preparedness Reporting at Headquarters Combat Support Group, RAAF Base Amberley.
"I joined the Air Force during the Vietnam era and I thought a quick nine years would do me, but more than 50 years later, I'm still here," Squadron Leader Lampard said.
"I completed my training as an electrical fitter and was posted firstly to Williamtown working on Mirage fighter aircraft.
"Twelve months later, I was posted to Butterworth, Malaysia, and that started 12 years of work in the Williamtown/Butterworth cycle.
"I loved Butterworth especially the food, people and warmth. It's a place where the locals are welcoming.
"We played a lot of sport there as well. I was involved with all football codes, basketball, volleyball, scuba diving and Tai-kwon-do. I even bought an MGB while I was there."
The opportunity to increase his knowledge led Squadron Leader Lampard to undertake the study necessary to progress to his favourite Air Force role, senior engineering officer, No. 75 Squadron.
"Senior engineering officers get to make decisions that directly affect aircraft serviceability and flight-worthiness; great challenges and wonderful outcomes," he said.
"Australia can be rightfully proud of our air capability growth from cloth-covered wooden framed bi-planes to the latest fifth-generation aircraft, given our population size.
"We have always been well regarded for our ability, tenacity and professionalism. I have luckily been involved with many other air forces during my service including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States. All have been glowing in their comments on what we do and how we go about achieving our goals."
Awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal for his work managing and simplifying parts replacement in the Australian F/A-18 Hornet fleet, Squadron Leader Lampard today puts his aerospace engineering skills to use developing an electronic reporting program for Combat Support Group aligning it with aircraft force element groups.
With people a strong focus of the Air Force Centenary, throughout 2020 and 2021 exceptional members who have contributed to the Air Force will be featured on www.airforce.gov.au/100 and Squadron Leader Lampard is a fine example of the thousands of people who make up our Air Force.
