DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE
Issued by Ministerial Support and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6265 3343, Fax: 02 62656946
MSPA 064/09
Saturday, 28 February 2009
CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE WELCOMES FUTURE
LEADERS AT ADFA
The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, today congratulated
332 Navy midshipmen and Army and Air Force officer cadets, who have successfully
completed their initial military training at Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).
The young men and women celebrated with family, friends and more than 800 of their
peers at the Chief of Defence Force Parade earlier today.
The Honourable Dr Mike Kelly, AM, MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support –
representing the Minister for Defence – was received by the Parade, and attended a
reception for the new midshipmen and officer cadets and their families at the Academy.
Air Chief Marshal Houston said he expected much of the leaders within the Australian
Defence Force and welcomed the midshipmen and officer cadets to the Academy.
“They are an impressive group of young men and women, who have made a significant
and unique commitment in their lives. They have committed to serve their country as
members of Navy, Army and Air Force,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.
“Today’s parade is a significant milestone in their progress, marking completion of their
initial five weeks of intensive military training. We have seen them progress from
anticipation and uncertainty, to exhaustion, and ultimately to pride and a sense of great
achievement as they have developed a real sense of what it means to be part of a team.
“As these midshipmen and officer cadets continue their training and education at the
Academy, they are embarking on a career in which they will face many demands. They
will have the privilege of leading some of the finest Service people in the world who in
turn expect from them the highest standard of leadership.
“They should be proud of their performance here today, as should their families, loved
ones and everyone associated with the Academy. I have every confidence in their ability
to achieve great success in the future.
Air Chief Marshal Houston also welcomed to the Academy ten midshipmen and officer
cadets from Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
“Your presence here today reflects Australia’s commitment to our region and is a
reminder to us all that true security can never be found in isolation.
“I know that the friendships you will make and the understanding you will gain of
Australia – as well as all that you will share with us – will help to maintain and extend the
close ties between our countries into the future,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.
Media contact:
Jennifer Reilly
0411 403 489
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
