Thu, 3rd July 2008
Minchin pays tribute to retiring defence service chiefs
Senator the Hon Nick Minchin
Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
Shadow Minister for Defence
Shadow Minister for Defence, Senator Nick Minchin, today congratulated retiring Defence Service Chiefs for their distinguished service and welcomed senior Defence officials to their new positions.
“Vice Admiral Russ Shalders, Lieutenant General Peter Leahy and Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd have served with their respective forces and as senior executives in Defence with great distinction,” Senator Minchin said.
“I sincerely thank them for their service and dedication over a number of years.
“Vice Admiral Shalders joined the Navy in 1967 and was appointed as Vice Chief of the Defence Force in July 2002 and as Chief of Navy in July 2005. The continued success of the Air Warfare Destroyer and Amphibious Ships projects is due to his diligent oversight.
“Lieutenant General Leahy has had more than 37 years in the Army, including as commander since 2002. He has overseen the addition of two battalions and is to be commended for his strong leadership during this time.
“Air Marshal Shepherd was promoted to Air Vice-Marshal in 2003 and appointed as Chief of Air Force in 2005. Air Marshal Shepherd was successfully involved in key decisions to modernise our air fleet.
“I wish Vice Admiral Shalders, Lieutenant General Leahy and Air Marshal Shepherd all the best for their retirement and sincerely thank them for their contribution to our nation’s security.
“I also congratulate the new Vice Chief of Defence Force - Lieutenant General David Hurley; Vice Admiral Russell Crane - the new Chief of Navy; Air Marshal Mark Binskin - the new Chief of Air Force; and Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie - the new Chief of Army.
“These are well deserved promotions based on significant experience and leadership and will form strong support for Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston who continues his well-respected role as Chief of the Defence Force.
“We strongly support Air Chief Marshal Houston’s reappointment and wish the new Defence Service Chiefs all the best for the terms of their appointments,” Senator Minchin concluded.