Wing Commander Brett Darnley-Stuart has been awarded a second Federation Star in recognition of his 45 years of service in the Air Force.

Taking place last year at RAAF Base Glenbrook’s Combined Mess, on October 22, Air Commander of Australia Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz presented Wing Commander Darnley-Stuart with his second Federation Star medal. Air Vice-Marshal Braz commended the Wing Commander for his long-standing dedication to service in the Air Force and acknowledged the important support his family continues to provide.

“I consider myself blessed working in Defence, both Air Force and Australian Public Service, and have made many friendships over that period,” Wing Commander Darnley-Stuart said.

“Having that network of friends in various organisations within and outside of Defence has been very important in breaking down barriers. Knowing I can always call upon them for assistance/guidance any time, as well as being able to meet socially, has been critical for my well-being.”

On April 10, 1979, Wing Commander Darnley-Stuart enlisted in the Air Force as an armament technician. His career has included postings to 77 Squadron, 3 Squadron and 2 Operational Conversion Unit. 

'My advice to future aviators is: don’t burn your bridges and treat everyone with respect, as sometime in the future you may require their assistance.'

In 1991, he commissioned as an armament engineer officer. Two decades later, Wing Commander Darnley-Stuart transferred to the Air Force Reserves, and is now working for Headquarters Air Command as the Staff Officer O1 Weapons Support.

“In my career, I have worked on projects that introduced targets into Defence, and in squadrons and headquarters where I devised means on how to destroy [those targets] – bringing me to the conclusion that we are either a target or a piece of ordnance,” he said.

Wing Commander Darnley-Stuart has had countless joy flight opportunities. Most notably, in 1984, he flew in a Mirage at RAAF Butterworth, piloted by Flight Lieutenant William Henman – now Air Vice-Marshal (retd) William Henman. 

In 1988, he flew in the F/A-18B Hornet in Townsville with Flight Lieutenant Melvin Hupfield – now Air Marshal (retd) Melvin Hupfield, Chief of Air Force from 2019 to 2022 – as the pilot. 

“My advice to future aviators is: don’t burn your bridges and treat everyone with respect, as sometime in the future you may require their assistance,” he said.

He added that it is also incumbent on aviators to uphold Defence values and treat each other as they expect to be treated.