Twice the leadership, twice the fun

One role. Two officers. A friendly rivalry that's become part of every graduation.

There’s one question guaranteed to spark a smile at RAAF Base Wagga’s 1RTU. 

Who makes the better parade commander?

The answer simply depends on whether you ask FLTLT Scott Marshall or FLTLT Bridget Greenall.

The pair have developed a warm, sibling-like competitiveness since arriving at 1RTU, where they alternate the role of parade commander at each graduation, while balancing demanding training responsibilities behind the scenes.

When the question was put to FLTLT Marshall, he offered a diplomatic response.

“Bridget does a really good job,” he said. 

“It's healthy competition. We probably do tease each other.”

However, FLTLT Greenall did not hesitate.

“Me,” she said with a laugh.

Their colleagues have come to know the teasing pair as the unit's unofficial brother and sister, but beneath the banter is genuine respect.

Although she's been at 1RTU longer, FLTLT Greenall was quick to acknowledge that FLTLT Marshall brings almost 18 years of Air Force experience to the fore.

“I'm considered the senior FLTLT because I've been at the unit longer,” she said. 

“But Scott is a lot more senior than I am.”

She said the friendly competition encourages them both to continually lift their game, ensuring every graduation parade is delivered to the high standard expected of Australia's only Air Force recruit training establishment.

Away from the parade ground, FLTLT Marshall is the Ground Defence Training Flight Commander, responsible for developing recruits in military skills, including weapons handling, field exercises and physical training. Having joined 1RTU in January after a career within CSG, he said the posting has given him the opportunity to experience a different side of the Air Force.

Meanwhile, FLTLT Greenall is the Recruit Training Flight Commander, overseeing recruit flights, rehabilitation and mentor sections that support trainees throughout their nine weeks of initial military training. As a PCO, she serves outside her employment category, broadening her leadership experience while helping shape Air Force's newest recruits.

Yet their responsibilities don't end with their day jobs.

1RTU entrusts instructors with prominent ceremonial appointments alongside their primary roles. Every fortnight, these two officers step onto the parade ground as parade commander or in other key ceremonial positions, helping to deliver one of the most significant milestones in every aviator's career.

It's an opportunity unique to 1RTU and one that both officers are proud to undertake.

With another 12 recruit courses still to graduate this year, they'll continue swapping ceremonial duties every fortnight.

As for who does it better?

The answer may never be settled, but one thing is certain: Air Force’s newest aviators are the real winners.