On behalf of the Minister for Defence, I wish to congratulate the 240 midshipmen and officer cadets who graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) today. I had the privilege of representing the Minister at today’s graduation ceremony.
Three years ago, these young men and women embarked on a military career. Today, they graduate from the Academy as junior Officers in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and other Defence Forces, having successfully completed their military training, in addition to attaining undergraduate degrees from the University of New South Wales at ADFA.
The graduating class were joined by 600 midshipmen and officer cadets who are in their first and second years at the Academy.
The Graduation Parade is an important milestone in the lives of our midshipmen and officer cadets, as it recognises their professionalism, dedication, intellect and integrity throughout their training at ADFA. I see these qualities in our ADF personnel, and it gives me great pride to see these attributes instilled in our junior officers.
Graduation is also a time to acknowledge the families of our midshipmen and officer cadets, who have played a vital role in shaping their lives and supporting them through the initial phase of their military careers. I ask that you continue to support them as they face the challenges of Service life.
I am confident that the military training and academic studies offered at the Academy will provide them with the knowledge, skills and qualities required to lead our sailors, soldiers, airmen and airwomen.
Our midshipmen and officer cadets have chosen an honourable career in pursuit of Service to their country, and for that, Australians around the nation can be proud.
I would also like to congratulate the 11 international cadets who graduated from the Academy today; they have been exceptional ambassadors for their counties. Thank you for the contribution you have made during your time at ADFA.
I also want to acknowledge Officer Cadet Nicholas Barber who was awarded the Academy’s most prestigious award – the Commander in Chief Medal. This award was presented to the graduate who displayed outstanding military and academic achievements, as well as exceptional leadership skills, during their time at ADFA.
Media note:
Still imagery will be available at www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2010/
Media contacts:
Adam Carr (Parliamentary Secretary for Defence): 02 6277 3415
Sharelle Mathias (ADFA): 0411 403 489
Defence Media Operations: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
