Cadet Tribute Dinner for two outstanding leaders

Published: Friday, 21 October 2011

Former Cadets across the generations gathered in the Thorold Hall Foyer for a dinner to pay tribute to two men who had given so much for so long. The occasion, to mark the retirement from the Mentone Grammar Cadet Unit of Hugh Green and Allen Hicks after 45 and 40 years respectively, was indeed a night to remember. So long was their service that two speakers were required to cover the span of years. Former Unit Commanders, Geoff Ryan spoke about the years up until 1984, whilst David Stansfield covered the years following. Both were superb and spoke with great humour and much affection.

Presentations were made by former B Company Officer Rick Thomas, current Commander Vic Evans on behalf of the Cadet Unit and the Principal Mal Cater, who presented both men with framed collages of photos taken over the years.

Also honoured on the night was former Unit Commander, Brian Lewis, who was presented with an Australian Cadet Forces Service Medal by the Commander of Victoria Australian Army Cadets Brigade LTCOL (AAC) Don Shearman.   

In addition, an Honour Board recording the names of all the Unit Commanders since the Unit’s inception in 1943 was unveiled. It was indeed fitting that all living Commanders were in attendance to enjoy the moment.

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