Cadets thank Sir Peter for inspiring patronage

As General (retd) Sir Peter Cosgrove’s tenure as Patron of the ADF Cadets draws to a close, the cadet community expressed its deep gratitude for his contribution over the past three years.

CAPTION: General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove speaks with Australian Navy Cadets during a visit to the West Head Gunnery Range, Flinders, Victoria. Story by Tamara Robinson. Photo by Leading Seaman Sittichai Sakonpoonpol.

Head ADF Cadets Major General Douglas Laidlaw said Sir Peter’s commitment and experience had been instrumental in enriching the Navy, Army and Air Force cadet programs.

“Sir Peter’s leadership and insights have elevated the cadet experience, inspiring young Australians to develop skills, confidence and a strong sense of community,” Major General Laidlaw said.

“His engagement has had a lasting impact on more than 31,000 cadets and the thousands of volunteer cadet staff, families and local communities who support them.”

During his tenure as Patron, Sir Peter attended events, competitions and ceremonies across the nation, from mentoring at the flagship ADF Cadets Leadership Summit to reviewing end-of-year parades.

While engaging with cadets, Sir Peter often reflected on his own experiences as a former cadet and encouraged cadets to view their time in the programs as a stepping-stone to greater opportunities both in Defence and beyond.

“The ADF cadet community were privileged to be the recipients of Sir Peter’s mentorship over the past three years,” Major General Laidlaw said.

“I was unsurprised to see him get to as many cadet events, including regional and remote activities, as he did.

“We would like to recognise another chapter in Sir Peter’s service to the nation.

“His role as the first Patron of the ADF cadets provides a full circle to his lifetime of service and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cadets to come.”

Major General Laidlaw said Sir Peter’s efforts had contributed to the modernisation of the programs, ensuring they remain relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of society.

“His engagements with cadets, volunteers and family members across the country highlight Defence’s commitment to strengthening the cadet community and enhancing the inter-generational connection between the Australian Defence Force and the community that we serve,” Major General Laidlaw said.

“Defence and each of the cadet programs extend their heartfelt thanks to Sir Peter for his leadership, dedication and unwavering support during his tenure, and wish him all the best for the future.”

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