Commander Samuel Dale

Commander Samuel Dale joined the RAN as an ADFA Midshipman in 1996. On completion of officer and academic training he completed pilot training through BFTS, 2FTS and the ADF Helicopter School, joining 723 Squadron at the end of 2000. Sam has since served on 723 Squadron (AS350BA Squirrel), 816 Squadron (S-70B-2 Seahawk), HMAS Anzac (III), HMAS Adelaide (II), HQ FAA, 725 Squadron (MH-60R Seahawk), and most recently at Maritime Operations.

Sam’s embarked tours include Operations ASTUTE, RELEX​, RESOLUTE and CATALYST. He completed qualified helicopter instructor course with the Royal Air Force, and has instructed students in AS350BA Squirrel and S-70B-2 Seahawk, while also assessing instructors in MRH-90 Taipan, A109E and the Bell 429 during his posting as HQ-FAA Chief Pilot Examiner. Sam has completed over 3000 flying hours to date and his last posting was as Deputy Director of Future Operations at Maritime Operations.

Sam’s education includes a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Military and Defence Studies from the Australian War College in 2019.

Commander Samuel Dale assumed Command of 723 Squadron in December 2021.