Our People in QLD
Steven Hall - Gold Coast airman plays key role in supporting diggers in Afghanistan
C-17 pilot, Flying Officer Steven Hall, is supporting Australian Defence Force personnel on the ground serving with Operation Slipper in Afghanistan.
The Gold Coast 28 year-old is a member of Royal Australian Air Force's 36 Squadron based at Amberley in Queensland.
"I wanted to fly since I was really young so I joined the Air Force in 2003, after going to Hillcrest Christian College," Steven said.
"I've been flying two-and-a-half years now, after four years of training."
During his training Steven was quick to decide which particular aircraft he wanted to fly.
"As soon as I found out the Air Force was going to purchase the C-17 I decided that was it," Steven said.
"Before that it was going to be the C-130 Hercules."
In his role working in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Steven is delivering essential equipment and supplies from Australia to Operation Slipper personnel.
"I am a co-pilot, which involves a lot of mission planning and I'm mentoring other pilots who are new to the MEAO," Steven said.
"I like being here to help the guys on the ground in Afghanistan, delivering vehicles and equipment. It is a good feeling."
“I always wanted to work in a job where I would be deployed on operations and I enjoy working here in the MEAO."
The Air Force gives Steven a great deal of career and personal satisfaction.
"The social life is great, we have good pay and conditions and my wife Erin and I have everything we need," Steven said.
When Steven returns home from Afghanistan he has a new project to keep him on the go.
"We purchased a house in December in Brisbane and my hobby is fixing it up," Steven said.
"Also, when I have time, I play golf with my father Graham and my mates."
Steven has a sense of satisfaction after being deployed to Afghanistan.
"We know we're helping out, we love doing it and the C-17 is a great capability."