LtCol Stephen M. Piantanida graduated from the University of North Florida in December 2003 and was commissioned via the PLC program a Second Lieutenant in March 2004. Upon completion of The Basic School, LtCol Piantanida reported for flight training at NAS Pensacola, FL. He was winged a Naval Aviator in April 2007 and reported to HMLA/T-303 at Camp Pendleton, CA for instruction as an AH-1W pilot.
In September 2007, LtCol Piantanida was assigned to HMLA-167, where he served as the Flight Equipment OIC and Legal Officer. In March of 2008 LtCol Piantanida deployed with HMLA-167 in support of OIF. In February 2009, LtCol Piantanida deployed with HMLA-167 in support of OEF. In February 2010, LtCol Piantanida reported to 2nd Battalion 9th Marines to serve as a Forward Air Controller deploying to OEF in July 2010.
April 2011, LtCol Piantanida reported back to HMLA-167 where he served as the Flightline Officer, Assistant Maintenance Officer, Tactics Officer in Charge, and Weapons and Tactics Instructor. LtCol Piantanida reported to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One in June of 2014 to serve as an Instructor Pilot in the AH-1 Division.
LtCol Piantanida reported to MAG-29 in July 2017 and was assigned to HMLA-167, where he served as the Maintenance Officer and Executive Officer. In February 2019, LtCol Piantanida converted to the AH-1Z.
In April 2020, LtCol Piantanida reported to Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) in Quantico, VA. While at HMX-1 LtCol Piantanida served as the Manpower OIC, Flight Officer, and Operations Officer.
In July 2024, LtCol Piantanida reported to MATSG-21 in Pensacola, FL and assumed the role of Executive Officer.