23 October 2024
The ADF has supported the visit to Australia by Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla, performing duties in the air and on land and water.
Australia’s Federation Guard and the Band of the Royal Military College provided a ceremonial welcome and fired a 21-gun salute at Parliament House in Canberra on October 21.
The King conducted a fleet review of five Navy warships in Sydney Harbour, during which he engaged with officers and sailors, on October 22.
Air Force provided airlift between Canberra and Sydney and its aircraft were part of a triservice flypast of Sydney Harbour.
The critical role of the ADF during the visit demonstrated the close relationship between the monarchs and Australia’s military forces. The King has a long relationship with Navy, Army and Air Force organisations, and holds a number of honorary ranks.
It was announced on October 19 that King Charles has been appointed the honorary ranks of Admiral of the Fleet of the Royal Australian Navy, Field Marshal of the Australian Army and Marshal of the Royal Australian Air Force.
Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston said the appointments symbolised the Royal family’s longstanding dedication and relationship with the nation.
“Since Australian Federation in 1901, Australia’s military forces have been custodians of great traditions connected to the Commonwealth, and 123 years later the Australian Defence Force is proud to continue this legacy,” Admiral Johnston said.
