Officer Cadet Jack Macklan is one step closer to his goal of becoming a leader in the Australian Army, following his graduation this week from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).
At graduation, Officer Cadet Macklan was awarded the Chief of Army prize for most outstanding performance by a third-year Army officer cadet in the fields of academic and military achievement, leadership, personal example and service ethos.
Wodonga-born and raised, Officer Cadet Macklan found that by his early 20s he had a number of friends who were members of the ADF.
Their exciting stories drove him to enlist in the Army, where he served for four years before embarking on his ADFA journey in 2021.
The decision to study at ADFA was an easy one, because it provided the opportunity to fulfil his dream to serve as a leader in the ADF.
"I always wanted to study at university, but I also had aspirations to assume a leadership role within the military," Officer Cadet Macklan said.
"I anticipated I would be challenged by the academic side of ADFA, but with the support of ADFA and UNSW, I have come to learn a lot."
Officer Cadet Macklan was actively involved in extracurricular activities, including rowing, touch rugby, and he joined the marathon and distance running club.
He said this played a crucial role in shaping him as a leader and provided invaluable networking among his peers.
"I highly recommend studying at ADFA as it's an awesome place to grow as a person and gain leadership skills," Officer Cadet Macklan said.
"I made memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life."
Officer Cadet Macklan said the key to learning and growing at ADFA was having a good attitude and to put your hand up for as many opportunities as possible.
"Whether that be sport, academic field trips, or optional military courses, ADFA offers a wide variety of opportunities; you just have to take them," Officer Cadet Macklan said.
Following graduation, Officer Cadet Macklan marched over the hill to the Royal Military College - Duntroon, where he will spend the next 12 months learning about Army command before continuing his career as an officer.
