Long-serving CA to make history

By Cpl Damian Shovell

THE announcement of new command arrangements for the ADF might produce an historic first for the CA.

With the extension of his tenure until 2008, Lt-Gen Peter Leahy could be the longest single serving appointment as CGS/CA in Australian military history. The only Service Chief since World War II to serve more than six years in office was VAdm Sir John Collins.

Announcing the make-up of the new senior leadership team, Defence Minister Senator Robert Hill said Lt-Gen Leahy had “provided excellent leadership for the Army at a time of high operational tempo”.

“He has also led important work on the hardening and networking the Army initiative,” he said.

From July 1, current Land Commander Maj-Gen Ken Gillespie will become VCDF, on promotion to Lt-Gen. He will replace current VCDF VAdm Russ Shalders, who has been appointed CN. Current CN VAdm Chris Ritchie is retiring. CAF Air-Mshl Angus Houston, who replaces the retiring Gen Cosgrove as CDF, moves on promotion to Air Chief Marshal. The new CAF, AVM Geoffrey Shepherd, will be promoted to Air-Mshl.