ADFA’s graduating class of 2017 throw their hats in the air to symbolise completion of three years military training and academic studies as a C-130J Hercules flies over in salute. Photo by AHC Studios.

Latest graduation from ADFA

15/12/2017 Posted by Brian Hartigan 7182 Views 0 Comments ADFA, Australian Defence Force Academy

More than 260 officer cadets and midshipmen graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra yesterday.

Families and friends of the graduates were joined by Governor-General General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Minister for Defence Marise Payne, Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin and other distinguished guests at the annual graduation parade.

ADFA Commandant Brigadier Cheryl Pearce said the dedication and maturity of the 2017 graduating class would ensure they excelled as leaders of the Australian Defence Force.

“This parade marks the culmination of three years’ hard work across military training and academic study,” Brigadier Pearce said.

“ADFA has provided these officer cadets and midshipmen with the skills and knowledge to progress to the next stage of their military careers and put into practice ethical and values-based leadership.

“I am privileged to be part of this unique tri-service military training establishment responsible for the education of the young men and women who are the future of our Defence Force.

“These graduates will make excellent young Navy, Army and Air Force officers and I look forward to seeing where their careers will take them.”

Sir Peter Cosgrove presented the Academy’s prestigious Commander in Chief Award to Officer Cadet Tom Darzins.

The medal and sword are for exceptional performance by a graduate in the fields of military and academic achievement.

In addition, Minister Payne presented the Citizenship Award to Midshipman Emma Finucan, Air Chief Marshal Binskin presented the Chief of the Defence Force Sword of Honour for Leadership to Officer Cadet Riley Brassil, and Major General Wilkie, Commander Australian Defence College, presented the RSL Sword of Honour for Service to Midshipman Matthew Newman.

Midshipman Thomas Fathers, Officer Cadet Hugh Connell and Officer Cadet Andrew Haes were awarded the Chief of Navy, Chief of Army and Chief of Air Force Prizes respectively.

The officer cadets and midshipmen who graduated today will be posted to establishments around Australia to continue their training, or commence operational duties.

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