Throwing their hats in the air today marked not only the end of their time at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), but also the start of a military career in the Australian Defence Force for 267 Midshipmen, and Army and Air Force Officer Cadets.
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel Warren Snowdon, joined by the Governor-General, Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Chief of the Defence Force General David Hurley, the Acting Commandant, Rear Admiral James Goldrick, other distinguished guests and families to celebrate the significant achievement of the graduating class of 2011.
Mr Snowdon said the Graduation Parade is a milestone in the careers of the young men and women.
“These young Officer Cadets and Midshipmen have successfully completed a three-year military and leadership training program while undertaking undergraduate studies through the University of New South Wales,” Mr Snowdon said.
Rear Admiral Goldrick said the education and training of the graduates had developed the fundamental knowledge, skills and qualities of character they would need as young officers in the Australian Defence Force.
“They have matured into exemplary individuals and I know that, as leaders in the Defence Force, they will demonstrate the high levels of professionalism, integrity and leadership vital to success in operations and in the host of activities required to support the modern ADF,” Rear Admiral Goldrick said.
Following three years at ADFA, Midshipman Samuel Jenkins graduates with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Physics and Oceanography from the University of NSW, along with achieving the rank of Sub Lieutenant. Midshipman Jenkins, who joined the Navy in Melbourne in 2008, is looking forward to his future career.
“I plan to be a maritime warfare officer, a submariner and then hope to command a submarine. My three years at ADFA have given me a strong desire to serve in the Navy,” he said.
Officer Cadet David Cooling graduates with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English and Indonesian.
“I joined the Army because I wanted a career outside the ordinary, one that was exciting and different,” he said.
Officer Cadet Cooling leaves ADFA to complete his officer training at the Royal Military College Duntroon and hopes to graduate in 12 months into the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.
Office Cadet Melissa Wilks came to ADFA in 2009 from Townsville, and she has been studying a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering. Although she graduates from the Academy with her third-year peers, she will return to ADFA next year for the final year of her degree. She hopes to serve the Royal Australian Air Force in Airlift Group.
The Midshipmen and Officer Cadets who graduated today will be posted to establishments around Australia to continue their training.
Media contacts:
Marcus Butler (Minister Snowdon’s Office) – 02 6277 7820
Cristy Symington (ADFA Public Affairs) – 0411 403 489
Defence Media Operations – 02 6127 1999
