Several young Officer Cadets and Midshipmen have been commissioned as the newest members of the Officers Corps for His Majesty’s Armed Forces, on 1 July in Nuku’alofa. 

HMAF stated their commissions were received from the Commander-in-Chief, King Tupou VI and approved by the Defence Board.

Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Fielakepa officiated the commissioning of five officers, at the HMAF headquarters in Nuku'alofa.

"These young leaders recently graduated their Officer Trainings from various military institutions around the world, including Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, China and India."

He said HMAF commended them for their achievements, courage, resilience and sacrifice to become leaders of the Armed Forces.

Officers

Lt. Hehea Lino was commissioned as an Officer in the Land Force to the rank of First Lieutenant. She graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon in Australia and is serving in the Communication and Information Technology Unit. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems from the University of the South Pacific.

Midshipman Paula Ulakai was commissioned as Ensign of the Tonga Royal Navy. He graduated from HMAS Creswell, Royal Australian Naval College and will be serving as one of the Navigation Officers on the Navy patrol boat, VOEA Ngahau Siliva.

Midshipman 'Esafe Vuki was similarly, commissioned as Ensign of the Tonga Royal Navy. He graduated from Royal New Zealand Navy Officer Training School.

Officer Cadet Siaosi Aleamotu'a who graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon in Australia, was commissioned as Second Lieutenant in the Land Force. He is currently one of the instructors for HMAF Recruit Intake no. 70.

Officer Cadet Semisi Toki, who graduated from the Officer Cadet School Waiouru in New Zealand, was commissioned as Second Lieutenant in the Land Force.

Abroad

Those abroad included Midshipman Semisi Lepuha Jnr Fifita, who was commissioned to the rank of Sub Lieutenant in the Tonga Royal Navy. He graduated from the PLA University of Dalian Naval Academy in China. He is currently appointed to assist the International Cadet Officers, at PLA International Military Exchange Group 2022. 

Midshipman Lehopoame Tufui Palaki was commissioned to the rank of Ensign in the Tonga Royal Navy. He graduated from the Britannia Royal Naval College in the United Kingdom. He is still in the UK undertaking a follow on course.

At the same time, Officer Cadet 'Okusitino Vete received his commission as Second Lieutenant in the Land Force. He graduated from the Indian Military Academy and is currently undertaking another course in India.