Happy birthday to Navy

CN, VADM Chris Ritchie doing the birthday honours with CO HMAS Harman CMDR Julie Mitchell.

The Australian Navy reached another milestone when it celebrated its official 102nd birthday.

The Australian Navy was formed March 1, 1901, with the transfer at Federation of Naval Forces from the six independent States to the Federal Government. The title ‘Royal’ was not granted until 10 years later in July 1911.

CN, VADM Chris Ritchie said: “We have come far from our humble beginnings in 1901. In a time of very high operational tempo the Navy team, which includes our many civilian and commercial partners, is achieving all and much more than is asked of it,” he said.

PICTURED is CN, VADM Chris Ritchie doing the birthday honours with CO HMAS Harman CMDR Julie Mitchell, who will help celebrate her base’s 60th anniversary this year also. Also pictured are members of CN’s Senior Advisory Committee.

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