90TH Anniversary Of The Anzac Spirit Honoured

CPA 127/05
Friday 22 April 2005

90TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ANZAC SPIRIT HONOURED BY FUTURE LEADERS OF THE ADF

A range of ANZAC Day activities throughout the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales will be supported by Navy Midshipmen and Army and Air Force Officer Cadets from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).

To celebrate and commemorate the ANZAC spirit, approximately 900 ADFA Midshipmen, Officer Cadets and military staff will gather at the Australian War Memorial for the Dawn Service commencing at 5.30am after participating in the traditional "gunfire" breakfast.

"The spirit of ANZAC is as relevant today as it was all those years ago and the participation of ADFA Midshipmen and Officer Cadets demonstrates their commitment to maintain the ANZAC sense of commitment, courage and perseverance" said Group Captain Loch Mitchell, Acting Commandant, ADFA.

ADFA will provide a Catafalque Party for the Dawn Service and the National ANZAC Day Ceremony commencing at 10:15am at the Australian War Memorial, as well as the Ensign Party and a drummer from the ADFA Band at the ANZAC Day Commemorative Mass at St Christopher's Cathedral, Manuka commencing at 8:15am.

ADFA Midshipmen, Officer Cadets and military staff will also travel to other regional locations, including Merimbula, Pambula, Bungendore, Narrandera and Narooma, to participate in their Dawn Services and Marches. They will display their high-level drill and ceremonial skills through fulfilling a range of roles, such as providing Catafalque Parties for memorial services or acting as flag orderlies.

"We honour those who have served our country in war and are very proud of the ANZAC tradition." said Group Captain Mitchell.

ENDS

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