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CHANGES:
CN VADM Chris Ritchie is set to retire.
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The Prime Minister has paid tribute to the stewardship of VADM
Chris Ritchie in his three years as Chief of Navy.
“It has been a period of intense activity,” Prime Minister Howard
told a media conference called on May 23 to announce the changes
in senior leadership of the ADF.
“It covered the first warlike activity by the Navy since the Vietnam
war, with the engagement of HMAS Anzac during the early stages
of the military operation in Iraq.
“I would like to wish Admiral Ritchie every happiness and good
health in his future life and to record my deep gratitude to him
on behalf of the Government and the Australian people for his
very loyal and professional service to the Navy.”
The Prime Minister said the current Vice Chief of the Defence
Force, VADM Russ Shalders, will succeed VADM Ritchie as Chief
of Navy.
It is a three-year appointment from July 1.
