2019 Chief of the Defence Force Parade at ADFA

Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell today officially welcomed the Australian Defence Force Academy’s newest members during the annual Chief of the Defence Force Parade.

The parade is an important tradition marking the successful transition from being a civilian, to the Australian Defence Force.

General Campbell congratulated the nearly 330 midshipmen and officer cadets on completing their initial military training, reminding them of their obligations as Australia’s future military leaders.

“You have made a solemn commitment to serve your fellow citizens as directed by the government of the Commonwealth of Australia; with energy, determination and if necessary sacrifice. In doing so, you commit to upholding the highest standards and the finest traditions of the Australian Defence Force,” General Campbell said.

ADFA graduates are represented throughout the ADF – from the most recent ADFA graduates who are performing critical roles on operations today, to the Admirals, Generals and Marshals who are ADFA Alumni.

“Here, you are among equals in an environment where excellence is the standard.

Success is not luck – it’s the result of hard work and commitment in everything you do,” General Campbell said.

This year’s class includes 21 international students representing 12 countries.

“The inclusion of international students encourages strong and enduring professional networks across all services and nations,” General Campbell said.

The Chief of the Defence Force also used the parade to welcome the new Commandant and ADFA Alumni, Commodore Peter Leavy, CSM, RAN. Commodore Leavy is the first ADFA graduate to return to the Academy as its Commandant.

ADFA is a unique military institution which combines military education and training, with study for an undergraduate degree.

The midshipmen and officer cadets will commence their academic program with the University of New South Wales Canberra on Monday.

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