Community & Business
9 December, 2024
Cadets recognised for outstanding efforts at Passing-Out Parade
The 19th Australian Army Cadets Unit (19ACU) held its annual Passing-Out Parade last week at Pittsworth State High School, presenting a number of special awards to selected cadets for their outstanding efforts throughout the year.
The afternoon began with the 19ACU parade, for which former Officer Commander, Major (AAC) Carol Walker was the reviewing officer.
Special awards were then presented to selected cadets for outstanding behaviour throughout the year.
Mr Allan Petersen, President of Pittsworth RSL Sub-Branch presented Cadet Lance Corporal Anastazia Kingsford with the Most Improved RSL perpetual trophy, in recognition of her development in both personal leadership and cadet skills.
“During her time with 19ACU she has shown much dedication to the unit and a passion for Army Cadets,” Lieutenant (AAC) Will Rasmussen said.
“She continues to grow and develop as a junior leader and we look forward to seeing what she achieves in the future.”
Principal of Pittsworth State High School, Dan Norris, presented the Year 12 Medallions to Cadet Under Officer Shannon Caesar, Cadet Sergeant Alice Train and Cadet Warrant Officer Class One Luke Lacey.
The Most Outstanding Cadet (Junior) was awarded to Matilda Mesken for demonstrating her commitment to the unit through leadership and cadet skills, being proficient in her endeavours, and showing strong aptitude toward the cadet program.
“She has a willingness to learn, and strong potential for future leadership positions,” Lt. (AAC) Rasmussen said.
Ashford McEwan received the award for the Most Outstanding Cadet (Senior).
Mr McEwan completed the Cadet Corporal Leadership course in July this year and is enrolled to attend the Sergeant Leadership Course during the school holidays.
“He has a readiness to take on new challenges and consistently achieves where he puts his focus,” Lt. (AAC) Rasmussen said.
“Ashford is also our resident bugler, and you would have heard him many a time at our ceremonial events.”
The Officer Commanding Trophy for Most Outstanding Cadet was presented
by Officer Commanding Captain (AAC) Peter Greenwood to Cadet Corporal Jimmy Gartner, for his consistent demonstration of excellence, working hard in his endeavours and earning the respect of his peers.
This particular award is based on staff and peer recognition.
Mr Gartner joined 19ACU in February 2023 as a Cadet Recruit.
He completed the Cadet Corporal Leadership Course in July this year, and was promoted to Cadet Corporal in August.
“As a demonstration of his skill, at the recent Cadet Corporal Leadership Course, Jimmy ranked third out of 46 attendees and the top for our unit,” Lt. (AAC) Rasmussen said.
He is enrolled to attend the Sergeant Leadership Course, alongside Ashford, during the upcoming school holidays.
Mr Petersen gave a brief speech of appreciation to the 19ACU for all their efforts in supporting the RSL over the last 12 months.
“I take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the 19ACU Pittsworth Cadets for their participation in helping out the Sub-Branch on Anzac Day, Korean and Vietnam Veteran’s Day, Remembrance Day, and the Sub-Branch reunion where Cadet Sergeant Travis Lacey, Cadet Under Officer Shannon Caesar and Sergeant Alice Train, were our guest speakers,” Mr Petersen said.
“I’d like to also thank Lieutenant (AAC) Will Rasmussen, Captain (AAC) Peter and Colleen Greenwood, and Major (AAC) Carol Walker for their commitment in their continued training and support of the cadets.”
After the formalities of the parade had concluded the cadets and their families enjoyed some light refreshments.
