A YOUNG Ballarat army cadet has received national recognition.
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Following the completion of a Victorian Army Cadet Brigades Promotion Course at Puckapunyal, year 12 student Ben Burgess received a Commanders Gold Commendation award for achieving the highest test scores.
Australian Army Cadets Colonel Deputy Commander Tam McQuinlan presented Ben with the badge at the St Patrick's College assembly on Tuesday.
Mr Burgess participated in the 10-day warrant officer course over the school holidays.
He was tested on delivering orders, verbal assessment and written examination.
The year 12 student said the unit had taught him skills he would use in the future.
"I get a real sense of achievement, self development and discipline," Mr Burgess said.
For now he plans to continue his work with the local cadet unit, however he has his sights set on becoming a police officer in the future.
"I see myself as a Victoria Police officer based in Ballarat, as my uncle and grandfather were both police officers," he said.
With almost 100 cadets from 15 high schools, Ballarat's Army Cadet Unit is a youth development organisation for teenagers aged between 13 and 19.
For more information visit www.armycadets.gov.au or email 300acu@cadetnet.gov.au