When Group Captain Glenn Nattrass graduated from pilot's course in 1978, he was convinced his life would be "full of fun, excitement and adventure".
"And I was right!" he said, some forty-five years later.
That conviction and his dedication to service carried Group Captain Nattrass through an extraordinary career in the Air Force - recognised with the presentation of his second Federation Star.
Inspired by a childhood fascination with flying and science, Group Captain Nattrass originally mapped his plans towards the dream of becoming a test pilot or even an astronaut. What followed was even more than he anticipated - an exciting career filled with unique experiences and demanding roles.
From flying C-130E and C-130H Hercules aircraft with 37 Squadron and 36 Squadron, to managing an ice-runway construction experiment at the Australian Antarctic Division's Casey Base - work that earned him the Conspicuous Service Cross - and undertaking a secondment to the Australian Embassy in Saudi Arabia during the Iraq-Kuwait War, Group Captain Nattrass demonstrated his strong leadership philosophy.
As Commanding Officer of 33 Squadron, Officer Commanding of 84 Wing, Deputy Commander of the Australian National Contingent during Operation Enduring Freedom and Director of the Headquarters Joint Operations Command Air and Space Operations Centre, he reflected on one enduring lesson: "Inspiration works better than direction, and taking the time to get to know your people pays disproportionate dividends."
Transitioning to the Reserves in 2009, Group Captain Nattrass maintained a strong connection to service. He served in roles including airworthiness adviser to Commander 6th Brigade during Operation Slipper, Acting Director of the Headquarters Joint Operations Command Air and Space Operations Centre during Exercise Talisman Sabre in 2011 and 2014, and Director of Cyber Warfare and Networks in Air Force Headquarters.
"Maintaining the service connection was my biggest motivation," he said.
'Many experiences were challenging, but each one was enjoyable and rewarding.'
In the company of his loved ones, Commander Combat Support Group Air Commodore Robert Graham presented Group Captain Nattrass with a second Federation Star clasp.
"I hadn't given much thought to passing the 45-year mark, although I am somewhat bewildered at how fast it all went by," he said.
"I was very humbled by the recognition and the genuine warmth of those who were part of the presentation. Professionally, I am proud to have spent my entire adult life in the company of such people.
"I think military service is unique in that it engenders an unbreakable bond between those involved. I would do it all again, if it were possible."
For those just starting their journey, Group Captain Nattrass offered sound advice: "Take the time to seriously consider the values you wish to live by and the reputation you would like to have at the end of your career.
"There will be times when the temptation to compromise integrity for personal advantage will emerge, often in subtle and unexpected ways. A degree of vigilance is a good tool to have in the kit."
Reflecting on a career filled with milestones, he found it impossible to pick just one highlight.
"Each and every posting and task had its highlights and treasured moments," he said.
"Many experiences were challenging, but each one was enjoyable and rewarding."
Group Captain Nattrass' expansive career stands as a testament to a remarkable legacy and a lasting contribution to Air Force. The boy who once dreamed of the stars found his fun, excitement and adventure in a lifetime of service.
