21 August 2025
When Flight Lieutenant Lyle Oaklands first walked into a Defence Force Recruiting office in 1979, he could not have imagined it would lead to a record-setting career, spanning two generations of service and culminating in one of Defence’s rarest honours.
Now, 45 years later, that extraordinary journey has been formally recognised with his second Federation Star – an accolade reserved for those who demonstrate a lifetime of dedication to Australia and its air power capability.
The milestone was celebrated during a special ceremony at 37 Squadron, RAAF Base Richmond, where family, friends and colleagues joined Flight Lieutenant Oaklands.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, Air Commander Australia Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz presented the honour in the form of a sixth clasp to the Defence Long Service Medal, describing Flight Lieutenant Oaklands’ career as “an incredible achievement in anyone’s language.”
“It’s a testament to his dedication, but also to the support of family and loved ones who’ve been there throughout the journey,” Air Vice-Marshal Braz said.
Enlisting as a firefighter, Flight Lieutenant Oaklands went on to serve in numerous postings across Australia, supporting operational deployments, exercises and helping shape the evolution of today’s integrated, technologically advanced ADF.
“Joining the Air Force was something I always wanted to do,” Flight Lieutenant Oaklands said.
“My brother was a Navy clearance diver, another served in the Army as a musician, and I had 10 aunts and uncles who enlisted during World War 2.”
Reflecting on his time in service, Flight Lieutenant Oaklands has witnessed significant change across Defence.
“Conditions have improved so much – housing, promotion pathways, pay. It’s amazing how far we’ve come since the early days,” he said.
After decades on the ground as a firefighter, Flight Lieutenant Oaklands commissioned as an operations officer, where he found renewed purpose in mentoring and leadership.
'I’ve had incredible support throughout my career, especially after commissioning. I’ve worked with a great team, learnt a lot and enjoyed every minute.'
Air Vice-Marshal Braz praised Flight Lieutenant Oaklands’ contribution to the Air Force’s people and capability.
“Your service over many years is a testament to the journey you can take through an Air Force career, starting as a firefighter and ending up where you are today with a commission,” Air Vice-Marshal Braz said.
“When you look at the medals on someone’s chest, you’re seeing decades of dedication and sacrifice. What Flight Lieutenant Oaklands has given to Air Force matters – and it’s made a lasting difference.”
One of Flight Lieutenant Oaklands’ proudest moments came when both of his sons also joined the RAAF as firefighters.
“We were the only father and two sons in the firefighter mustering at the same time – that’s something no one else has done in RAAF fire service history. I was incredibly proud,” he said.
Now serving with 37 Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Oaklands says his passion for the role remains as strong as ever.
“I’ve had incredible support throughout my career, especially after commissioning. I’ve worked with a great team, learnt a lot and enjoyed every minute,” he said.
His advice for the next generation of aviators is modest and heartfelt. “If you do the right thing, good things can happen,” he said.
As Air Force enters its second century, members like Flight Lieutenant Oaklands continue to embody its values – demonstrating the enduring pride, professionalism and service that define the RAAF.
