The RAAF has welcomed its new Chief, Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld, during a ceremonial parade and flypast in Canberra this week.
Outgoing Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Leo Davies said it has been a privilege to lead the RAAF for the last four years.
“I have been fortunate to have spent most of my life in this wonderful institution with its long record of service to our nation,” AIRMSHL Davies said.
“I am grateful for the tireless support of my family throughout my career, and for the dedication and commitment of all the men and women of the RAAF during my time as Chief.”
AIRMSHL Hupfeld said it was both an incredible honour and a substantial responsibility to be taking over command of Air Force.
“Our people are the key to our capability, and it is humbling to have been chosen to lead them,” AIRMSHL Hupfeld said.
“I am grateful for the enduring legacy of AIRMSHL Davies’ leadership, with today’s RAAF on a strong and solid vector for the future.”
AIRMSHL Hupfeld has served in the RAAF for almost 40 years. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) in recognition of his performance as Commanding Officer of Number 75 Squadron on Operation Falconer, and his Squadron was awarded a Meritorious Unit Citation.
AIRMSHL Hupfeld has commanded Air Combat Group, posted as Air Commander Australia and Head Force Design. He received an appointment as Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to the ADF in senior command and staff appointments.
Prior to being appointed Chief of Air Force, AIRMSHL Hupfeld served as Chief Joint Operations.
Earlier this year, AIRMSHL Leo Davies told ADM that he is proud of two achievements during his tenure; getting RAAF to ‘open the aperture’ to the art of the possible, and successfully delivering the first two F-35s to Australia.