The Australian Defence Force Academy’s (ADFA) incoming Midshipmen and Officer Cadets were formally welcomed today at the annual Chief of Defence Force (CDF) Parade.
The CDF Parade marks the culmination of the initial military training period for more than 330 first year Midshipmen and Officer Cadets and their acceptance as members of the corps of Trainee Officers at ADFA.
Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Vice Admiral David Johnston, congratulated ADFA’s newest Midshipmen and Officer Cadets on completing their initial military period.
“Over the past three weeks, the Midshipmen and Officer Cadets were introduced to life in the Australian Defence Force including activities such as drill, physical training, leadership and ethics education, and weapons handling,” Vice Admiral Johnston said.
“This is just the beginning of military life for these young men and women who are the future of our Defence Force and our partner Defence Forces.”
The new Trainee Officers will now commence university studies at the University of New South Wales Canberra, co-located with ADFA, alongside ongoing military training.
“This unique combination of university education and military training prepares Midshipmen and Officer Cadets intellectually, physically and ethically for their future roles as officers and leaders in the Navy, Army and Air Force,” Vice Admiral Johnston said.
“ADFA is just the first step in a fantastic career in the Australian Defence Force and foreign militaries for this year’s incoming class of Trainee Officers, and I will be following their progress with interest.”