30th Class Graduates from Australian Defence Force Academy

Throwing their hats in the air today marked not only the end of their time at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), but also the start of a new phase in the military careers of 224 officer cadets and midshipmen.
 
The Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK, MC, was joined by the Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC, and other distinguished guests and families at the 2016 Graduation Parade.
 
The achievement was extra special for ADFA as it marked the graduation of ADFA’s 30th class. Graduates from ADFA’s first class, who graduated in 1986, were also invited to attend the celebration.
 
Air Commodore Alan Clements, who completes his tenure as Commandant of ADFA with the 2016 Graduating Class, said the Parade marked the successful completion of academic studies and military training at ADFA for the young men and women.
 
“I commenced my tenure at ADFA with this cohort and have seen them grow from young and enthusiastic individuals to mature and dedicated junior leaders for our Defence Force,” Air Commodore Clements said.
 
“I am certain that they will make fine officers, demonstrating high levels of courage, respect, integrity and professionalism, values that are critical to success in the ADF. They join over 6200 ADFA graduates who have gone on to serve our nation with distinction.”
 
During the Parade, the Academy’s most prestigious award, the Commander in Chief Medal, was awarded to Midshipman Kate Millward. This medal is awarded to the most outstanding graduate in the fields of military and academic achievement. The Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, presented the Military Citizenship Award to Officer Cadet Michael Snart on behalf of the Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne. Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC presented the Chief of the Defence Force Sword of Honour for Leadership to Officer Cadet Johnathan Hensman, and Vice Admiral Ray Griggs AO, CSC, RAN, Vice Chief of the Defence Force presented the RSL Sword of Honour for Service to Officer Cadet Maxwell Harding.
 
Midshipman Peter Hunter, Officer Cadet James Wilson, and Officer Cadet Jake Kleinschmidt 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 to commence operational duties.