In 1985, a young Central Coast local with sun-bleached hair and an unmistakable grin joined the Royal Australian Air Force as an Airframe Technician.
Forty years later, that same man - now Wing Commander Kerry Mann - serves as Commanding Officer of the Air Lift Systems Program Office (ALSPO) at RAAF Base Richmond, capping a career defined by dedication, leadership and an enduring connection to the C-130 Hercules.
From the outset, aviation was in Wing Commander Mann's blood. His early years at 32 Squadron provided the hands-on maintenance experience that shaped his technical expertise. Soon after, he found his professional home with the Hercules - first on the C-130E and H, before moving onto the C-130J, an aircraft that has remained central to his career.
Wing Commander Mann's service has spanned remarkably over a breadth of roles and responsibilities. He has worked within 486 Squadron, 37 Squadron, 285 Squadron and ALSPO. Additionally, he has spent time embedded with the C-130J Maintenance Cadre in the city of Marietta in Georgia, United States - an experience that deepened his understanding of the aircraft and strengthened ties with international partners.
Demonstrating technical skill, initiative and leadership, he rose through the ranks to Warrant Officer before commissioning as an Engineering Officer. In every role, he brought the same commitment to people and platforms that earned him the respect of colleagues across Air Mobility Group (AMG).
That dedication was formally recognised when Commander AMG, Air Commodore Bradley Clarke awarded Wing Commander Mann with the Federation Star for 40 years of service.
Receiving the honour within AMG - an organisation so closely tied to his professional identity - was especially meaningful.
"It's not just about the platform - it's the people who support it. They're what make my work so rewarding," Wing Commander Mann said.
While humbled by the recognition, he insisted his service is far from over.
"I still have more to give. I'm not done yet," Wing Commander Mann said.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices that come with military life.
"Birthdays, Easters, holidays, Christmases - I've missed many over the years. This award doesn't just recognise my service. It symbolises the commitment my family has made as well."
Looking ahead, Wing Commander Mann is determined to continue serving the organisation that has shaped his life, while finding greater balance with the family who has supported him throughout his journey.
Four decades on, his trademark grin remains unchanged and his dedication to the Hercules - and the people who keep it flying - endures.
