Air Cadets is a program which develops character in youth as it promotes loyalty, professionalism, mutual respect, and integrity.
In the local area, #723 Moose Mountain Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets celebrated their 52nd year of existence on Monday, May 26, at the Carlyle Elementary School with their annual inspection.
For their annual inspection the Moose Mountain Squadron welcomed Major Kevin Tipper as the Reviewing Officer/Air Cadet League Representitive, Honourable Dan D'Autremont, MLA Don Toth, and Pete Garton (Area Director for Moose Mountain).
The inspection of the cadets by Major Tipper was satisfactory as he looked for posture and how their uniforms were kept. This was later followed by a demonstration of a Squadron Drill, which showed the dedication and discipline of the youth in the program as they followed their instructions.
The night was also important as awards were handed out to the youth who exemplified the virtues of the Air Cadet program.
Attendance awards were given to WO1 Colton Wilson, FCpl Michael Huenison, FCpl Marc Nelson, and Cpl Nicholas Huenison.
Most Improved in Level I went to Cpl Nicholas Huenison, Level II to Cpl Jessica Hamilton, Level III to both Sgt Parker Weatherald and Sgt Tanner Dufresne, Level IV to Sgt Shae-Lynn Mills, and Level VI to WO2 Jenden Oshowy.
An individual from each level also received the honour of being Top Cadet. Cpl Jacob Hinz earned this accolade as a Level I cadet, while FCpl Michael Huenison took the award for Level II. The Level III Top Cadet went to FCpl Marc Nelson, Level IV to Sgt Gavin Walter, Level V to Sgt Colton Oshowy, and Level VI to WO1 Colton Wilson.
The Area Directors Trophy was awarded to FSgt Ashton George. The Officers Choice award was given to WO1 Colton Wilson, while the Esprit de Corps trohpy was given to FCpl Marc Nelson.
This year the leadership award was earned by both WO2 Carly Hutton and WO2 Jenden Oshowy. WO2 Oshowy also received an award for Outstanding Drill.
In addition to this WO2 Oshowy, along with WO2 Karly Hutton, WO1 Colton Wilson, and FSgt Ashton George, were recognized for their many years in the Air Cadet program. They were honoured for their service as each of the four youth are graduating from grade 12 this year.
During the inspection Captain Walter White, who has led the Moose Mountain Squadron for 12 years, retired. His position as commander was transferred during a short flag ceremony. His position has been taken over by 2Lt Derek Huenison who will now be taking over the reigns.
In his parting words Captain White explained, "It has been a life changing experience for me from Basic Training to tonight. I recommend it to anyone who wants to see the youth become better citizens..."
"It's with a heavy heart and mixed emotions that I pass it on to 2Lt Huenison who is very capable and will do a great job, he's young and ambitious, which is rare to find. The squadron is in good hands."
Thus the squadron celebrated not only its 52nd year, but said goodbye to its Captain of 12 years as well as the graduating members of the squadron while welcoming the new commanding officer in 2Lt Huenison.
This marks a new chapter for the Moose Mountain Squadron, one which, many hope will continue to develop exemplary individuals while promoting the program.
