SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence
Thursday, 10 December 2009
055/2009
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY GRADUATES ON
DISPLAY
Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today congratulated 256 Midshipmen
and Officer Cadets who graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy
(ADFA).
The Class of 2009 marched on Parade with over 600 of their peers to mark the
auspicious occasion in front of family and friends.
Senator Faulkner was received on Parade and met with graduates and their families.
“The Graduation Parade is an important milestone in the lives of these young men
and women as it is a celebration of their hard work and commitment,” Senator
Faulkner said.
“They have successfully completed three years of military and leadership training, in
addition to an undergraduate degree from the University of New South Wales at
ADFA.
“Today commences the next phase of their careers in the Australian Defence Force
(ADF).
“The training and education offered by the Academy has provided them with the
knowledge, skills and attributes required to be junior officers in the ADF.
“They are outstanding individuals who demonstrate the professionalism, dedication,
intellect, courage and integrity that we expect from ADF personnel.
“Their achievements are a credit to themselves, the Academy, military and academic
staff and undoubtedly their families, who have played a vital role in their success,”
Senator Faulkner said.
During the parade, the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Her
Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, presented the Commander in Chief Medal to
Officer Cadet Elizabeth Buffett.
The Commander in Chief Medal is the Academy’s most prestigious prize, and is
awarded to the graduate who displays outstanding military and academic
achievements, as well as exceptional leadership skills.
The Midshipmen and Officer Cadets who graduate today will be posted to units and
establishments around Australia.
Twelve international students will return to their respective Defence Forces having
been exceptional ambassadors for their counties.
Media contact:
Michael Nguyen (John Faulkner): 02 6277 7800 or 0429 571 843
Sharelle Mathias (ADFA): 0411 403 489
Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
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