Quick Wits and Quick Minds

By OCDT Joshua Kam
1 May 2008

Sometimes winning isn’t about being the fastest, neither is it always about being the strongest. Sometimes winning is about having a quick wit, a bit of tenacity and engaging in some repartee. In April, the Midshipmen and Officer Cadets of ADFA took part in the annual Glasgow Debate series.

Named after Major-General T. W. (Bill) Glasgow, KCB,CB,CMG,DSO, whose argument and tenacity secured success for his soldiers in both the Boer War and the First World War, the Glasgow Debate series provides a chance for Midshipmen and Officer Cadets to practice and refine their skill in rhetoric, public speaking and of course debating.

Six teams representing their respective squadrons engaged themselves in three fiery rounds of British Parliamentary style debating. Topics included “That at US$300 million a day, the war in Iraq is a poor return on investment for the American taxpayer” and “That the ADFA Main Parade Ground should be used for sports and recreation”.

With their squadron in support to heckle and a first rate team of debaters, the team from 3A Squadron were lead to victory by MIDN Michael Gordon, who also won the best speaker in the Grand Final debate. 1A Squadron came a close and worthy second whilst 2A Squadron claimed third place.

*Editors note: OCDT Joshua Kam took out the title as the best overall speaker for the 2008 Glasgow Debate series. 


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