Royal Canadian Air Cadets: Difference between revisions
| Line 35: | Line 35: | ||
'''''Bold text''719 IS THE BEST!!!''' |
'''''Bold text''719 IS THE BEST!!!''' |
||
719 STORA is the best!!! |
|||
== Overview == |
== Overview == |
||
Revision as of 14:46, 20 January 2011
| Royal Canadian Air Cadets | |
|---|---|
| File:Air Cadet Ensign II.jpg Royal Canadian Air Cadets Ensign | |
| Active | April 1941-Present |
| Country | Canada |
| Type | Youth Organization |
| Size | 452 Sqns (25,000+ cadets) |
| Part of | Canadian Cadet Organization |
| Headquarters | Ottawa, Canada |
| Patron | His Excellency The Right Honourable, David Johnston |
| Motto(s) | To Learn - To Serve - To Advance |
| March | Quick: RCAF March Past |
| Commanders | |
| Honorary Air Commodore | HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh |
| Aircraft flown | |
| Trainer | Schweizer SGS 2-33/2-33A |
Royal Canadian Air Cadets (RCAirC) is a Canadian national youth program for persons aged 12 to 18. It is administered by the Canadian Forces (CF) and funded through the Department of National Defence (DND) with additional support from the civilian Air Cadet League of Canada (ACL).[1] Together with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets and Royal Canadian Army Cadets, it forms the "largest federally-funded youth program in the country".[2] Cadets are civilians, they are not members of the military and are not obliged to join the Canadian Forces.
The first squadrons were established in 1941 to train young men for duties during World War II.[3][4] The purpose has since changed to focus on citizenship, leadership, physical fitness, general aviation and stimulating an interest in the activities of the Canadian Forces.
The majority of cadet training takes place at the local squadron during the regular school year with a percentage of cadets selected for summer training courses at various cadet summer training centres located across Canada. Central to the air cadet program are the gliding and flying scholarships offered to air cadets who qualify. One in five private pilots in Canada is an ex-air cadet and 67% of commercial and airline pilots began as air cadets.[5] There are about 450 squadrons located across the country with an approximate enrolment of 24,500 Air Cadets.[6]
Bold text719 IS THE BEST!!!
719 STORA is the best!!!
Overview
The aim of Royal Canadian Air Cadets is to: develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership; promote physical fitness; and stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land, and air activities of the Canadian Forces. This is the same as for the Sea and Army Cadets; however, each focuses on its own parent element.[7] The Air Cadet motto is "To learn. To serve. To advance."[3]
Persons aged 12 to 19 may join the RC Air Cadets. The organization and rank system of the former Royal Canadian Air Force is used. Cadets are not members of the Canadian Forces and cadets have no power of command over any CF member. Adult leadership is provided by members of the Canadian Forces Reserve Subcomponent Cadet Organization Administration and Training Service composed mostly of officers of the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) Branch, supplemented, if necessary, by contracted Civilian Instructors, authorized adult volunteers, and, on occasion, officers and non-commissioned members of other CF branches. The CIC Branch is specifically trained to deliver the Royal Canadian Sea, Army, and Air Cadet training program, and like all reservists come from all walks of life and all parts of the community. Some are former cadets, many have former regular or reserve force service. [8]
Along with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets and Royal Canadian Army Cadets, the RCAirC forms part of the Canadian Cadet Organization. Though the RCAirC, and the other cadet programs, have a close relationship with the CF, cadets are not members of the Forces, and are not expected or required to join the Canadian Forces.[9] In keeping with Commonwealth custom, the Royal Canadian Air Cadets stand last in the order of precedence, after the Royal Canadian Sea and Army Cadets.
History
The Air Cadet Organization originated in the early days of World War II when the war effort required young men to meet Canada's military obligations. In 1940, Air Minister Power directed that a nation-wide voluntary organization be formed to sponsor and develop a select group of young men who would be trained to meet the increasing need for operational pilots in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) during World War II.[10] Prior to 1940, Air Cadet squadrons did not exist and were in fact Army Cadet Corps that were affiliated with RCAF Air Reserve squadrons. On November 11, 1940, an Order-in-Council was passed to establish the Air Cadet League of Canada to work in partnership with the RCAF. The first squadrons were organized in 1941 and by 1942 there were 135 squadrons and 10,000 cadets, mostly recruited from the Army Cadets. In the next year, by 1943, there were 315 squadrons with a membership of 23,000. In 1944, the program reached its peak membership with 29,000 cadets in 374 squadrons. First issued with air force blue uniforms featuring a long tunic with stand-up collar and wedge cap, this changed to the battle dress style uniform following the war. [10]
After the war, membership dropped to a low of 11,000 in 155 squadrons and the Air Cadet program underwent a transformation to reflect the changing needs of Canada and the cadets. The Air Cadet League introduced awards for proficiency and loyalty to the squadrons, summer courses were offered at RCAF stations, and a flying scholarship course was developed.[11] To date, more than 15,000 cadets have received their private pilot licence through this scholarship course.[11] Training shifted to be focused on the development of citizenship and an interest in aviation.[11] Interest was renewed; by 1961, 332 squadrons were in existence and in 1972, authority was given for membership of up to 28,000 cadets.[11]
In areas where there was a high interest in air cadets, additional squadrons were established with different parade nights to accommodate the numbers. These squadrons were often placed into air cadet wings (a formation of two or more squadrons) with a separate wing HQ staff of both officers and senior cadets overseeing the operation. This system was discontinued in the late 1960s and all squadrons became independent once again.[citation needed]
From the early days senior air cadets were given opportunities to work in staff positions beside officers, certain contracted civilians and RCAF/CF members at summer camps across Canada. A system was developed where senior cadets aged 16 or older were temporarily enrolled in the RCAF/CF on short term contracts and given the rank of Acting Corporal. They were referred to as Call-out Corporals. The Senior Leaders Course at Cold Lake later even used the CF rank of Acting Master Corporal among its staff of Call-out Corporals. Later this system was abolished and the "staff cadet" program selected senior cadets for advanced training who were appointed as staff cadets to assist the adult leadership.
With the unification of the Royal Canadian Navy,the Canadian Army and the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1968, the Canadian Forces became the Air Cadet League's military partner in the delivery of air cadet training.[12] In 1975, legislation was changed to officially allow the enrolment of female cadets into the Royal Canadian Sea, Army, and Air Cadets. The "battle dress" style woolen air force blue uniform was changed to a CF rifle green safari style uniform. The style and weight were more suited to the indoor and summer training reality of the program. The first of these was issued to cadet squadrons commencing in 1978. Some badging changes were made and the hat badge changed to a brass version of the air cadet crest. Also, for the first time, air cadet wings were worn on the left brest rather than the right. When the CF went back to separate uniform colours in the mid 1980s, cadets followed again with a new air force blue cadet uniform being issued but following the same style as the outgoing green uniform. Squadrons received these new uniforms commencing in the fall of 1992.
Today, the Royal Canadian Air Cadets has a membership of approximately 26,000 in 450 squadrons; and together with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets and Royal Canadian Army Cadets, forms the "largest federally-funded youth program in the country".[2][6] The membership has also diversified, becoming gender balanced and attracting and retaining visible minorities.[13]
Funding and military partnership
The RCAirC, along with the Royal Canadian Sea and Army Cadets, is sponsored by the CF/DND and the civilian Air Cadet League, along with the Navy League and Army Cadet League.[1] Each cadet unit is supported by a local sponsoring committee or League branch, responsible to the National League.[14] The basic Air Cadet program is free, including uniforms and activities. The local civilian sponsors must raise money to provide accommodation, liability insurance, and additional training aids not provided by the CF/DND. Cadets and their parents are encouraged to participate in fund-raising activities.[7]
Local training
Each squadron trains one night per week — a "parade night" — to undertake the local training program. The course of instruction is prescribed by the Director of Cadets and outlined in course training plans distributed to each squadron.[15] The four year program provides cadets instruction in citizenship, leadership, survival training, instructional techniques, drill and ceremonial and the basics of aviation and aeronautics.[16] In the fifth and subsequent years, cadets may be assigned to instruct these classes to the younger cadets. The local training begins in September and continues until June.
In addition to the mandatory weekly training sylabus, there are additional regularly scheduled activities that cadets can participate in optional training that includes band, firearms safety and marksmanship using the 10 m Air Rifle for both training and competition, biathlon, military drill practice, first aid training and competitions,[17] and ground school instruction in preparation for gliding and flying scholarship courses. Many of these activities also involve regional, provincial, or national competitions between teams and individual cadets.
Throughout the year there are weekend exercises organized by the local squadrons. Survival exercises, participation in Remembrance Day ceremonies, and familiarization flights are all common activities. Cadet squadrons participate in community events such as parades and band concerts.[18][19]
Squadron training levels
Air Cadets are challenged to qualify to five training levels. Each level is normally completed in the ten-month training period from September to June. With the approval of the commanding officer, cadets 14 years of age and older may complete levels 1 and 2 in a single training year. Success in meeting the required standard is rewarded with the appropriate level qualification badge. In Level Four cadets learn to instruct so that when they reach Level Five, they are ready to teach other cadets. This chart displays the training level structure of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets.
Cadet program update - squadron training
Beginning with the 2008/2009 training year, a new training system was introduced replacing the program that was in use since 1992. The Cadet Program Update (CPU) brings new teaching materials and incorporates more contemporary educational and youth development methods. Similar updates to the Sea and Army Cadet programs rationalize the connectivity between the three programs and more efficiently provides the training that is common to all three elements.[20]
The cornerstone of the CPU is the recognition that people between the ages of 12-18 pass through three basic "Developmental Periods" (DPs). These DPs mark the development of their cognitive abilities from a purely experienced-based (i.e. "hands-on") method of learning to abstract problem-solving and competency. The training methods used at each training level reflect the target age group of the cadets in that training level.[21]
The delivery of the various performance objectives (POs) will be through a mixture of mandatory and complementary enabling objectives (EOs). The mandatory EOs will be the same for all air cadet squadrons. Individual squadrons may chose from a number of complementary EOs to support the mandatory training. The selection of complementary training activities at a local squadron is based on the local resources and the interests of the cadets involved.[22]
The program will be phased in one year at a time with the new Level 5 being introduced for the 2012/2013 training year. Cadets already undergoing training in the current system will complete their training under the outgoing system.
| Level One (CPU) | Level Two (CPU) | Level Three (CPU) |
|---|---|---|
To achieve Level One a cadet must satisfactorily complete the following first year performance objectives:
|
To achieve Level Two a cadet must satisfactorily complete the following second year performance objectives:
|
To achieve Level Three a cadet must satisfactorily complete the following third year performance objectives
|
| Level Four | Level Five | Onwards |
|---|---|---|
To achieve Level Four a cadet must satisfactorily complete the following fourth year performance objectives
Note: To be replaced in 2011/2012 training year with CPU Level 4 |
To achieve Level Five a cadet must satisfactorily complete the following fifth year performance objectives
Note: To be replaced in 2012/2013 training year with CPU Level 5 |
* Cadets who have completed Level Five are often assigned responsibilities to help administer the squadron including assisting in clothing stores, squadron administration, training coordination and instruction
|
Summer training
Over 10,000 Air Cadets take part in summer training, delivered at summer training centres across the country. The courses offered are divided into familiarization, introductory specialty, and advanced specialty courses.
- Introductory courses
The two-week long General Training course cadets attend classes in citizenship, aviation, and military drill. They also do a variety of sports and participate in citizenship tours. Their training is meant to supplement the training received during the first year as a cadet.[23] Two other introductory courses are Cadet Musician - Basic and Pipes and Drums - Basic.
- Introductory specialty courses
The introductory specialty courses deliver training directed more specifically towards certain specialties. The Introduction to Instruction Course course prepares cadets for senior teaching roles within their home squadron. The Introduction to Leadership Course course prepares cadets for junior leadership roles within their home squadron.[24] The Introduction to Survival Course course introduces cadets to basic survival skills through instruction and situational training.[24] Introduction to Aviation expands on the aviation subjects that cadets are taught at the Squadron during the winter. It covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of flight. Introduction to Physical Education & Recreational Training develops attributes of sportsmanship and teamwork needed for assisting in the delivery of physical fitness programs at their home squadron.[24] The Introduction to Aerospace course is designed to instruct cadets on the development of space including scientific aspects, technical aspects, human aspects, as well as space exploration. The Introduction to Rifle Coaching course has two objectives, the first being to advance marksmanship skills and the second to teach how to coach fellow cadets during range activities in their local squadron. Cadets are given knowledge and practical experience in instructional techniques at the Introduction to Instruction course. One other introductory specialty course is Cadet Musician.
- Advanced specialty courses
Cadets may receive their glider pilot licence through a Gliding Scholarship course offered by the Air Cadet program. In Canada, the majority of glider pilots licenses are earned by Royal Canadian Air Cadets.[25] Cadets must be 16 to hold a Glider Pilot Licence.
Additionally, 250 air cadets earn their Transport Canada Private Pilot Licence through the Air Cadet Flying Scholarship program each year. This scholarship is available to cadets aged 17 to 18. Cadets are selected for this scholarship based on their cadet performance, academic performance, a written examination, a narrative, and an interview. The wings presented on successful completion of these scholarship courses are held in such esteem that former air cadets who later return as CF officers (CIC Branch) are permitted to wear the wings on their CF uniforms. This is out of respect the cadet training program has for flying activities. The Survival Instructor Course gives cadets further training in wilderness survival techniques and instruction. The Athletic Instructor course teaches cadets instruction and leadership in the domain of physical training. Other advanced specialty courses are Technical Training (Airport Operations, Photography, or Aircraft Maintenance), Service Band, Pipes and Drums, and the International Air Cadet Exchange.
- Senior Leaders Course (SLC)
Senior Leaders Course (commonly referred to as SLC) is an advanced specialty course that originated at Camp Borden (now CFB Borden) Ontario and based, since 1973, in Cold Lake, Alberta. Female course cadets were added to the SLC intake in 1976 [citation needed]. The six-week course trains approximately 300 senior cadets each summer in advanced leadership techniques and ceremonial drill.
Senior Leaders Course cadets have an opportunity to try out to be a member of the Precision Drill Team (PDT). The drill team consists of forty-eight cadets who perform a five-minute 'freestyle' drill routine involving complex movements and formations. For about a month, the cadets practice the routine in secret and reveal it to the Wing at the graduation parade. The Air Force Association Medal is awarded during graduation to one cadet from each province/territory who has the top overall performance in leadership and deportment, uniform, and drill.
The final Senior Leaders Course will be conducted during the summer of 2010. Starting in 2011, it will be replaced by the Leadership and Ceremonial Instructor course. The LCI course will be conducted at different centres across the country.
After successfully completing a summer course, cadets are presented with a qualification badge to display on their uniform. The badges may be seen on the Cadets.ca website.[26]
Summer training centres (CSTCs)
The cadet summer training centres (CSTC) of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets are distributed across Canada, often co-located with a Canadian Forces base. CFB Greenwood was opened in 1951.[27] In 1966, Cadet Summer Training Centre (CSTC) Penhold was opened at Penhold, Alberta.[28] Albert Head Air Cadet Summer Training Centre, British Columbia was established in 1995.[29]
Other summer training centres used by Air Cadets are at CFB Bagotville, CFB Comox, Blackdown (at CFB Borden, Ontario), CSTC Cold Lake (Alberta), CSTC Connaught in Ontario, Sea Cadet Summer Training Centre (SCSTC) HMCS Acadia in Nova Scotia, SCSTC HMCS Ontario, SCSTC HMCS Quebec, Rocky Mountain National Army CSTC, CSTC Trenton, CSTC Valcartier, and CSTC Whitehorse in the Yukon. Most summer training centres host a mix of Air, Army, and Sea Cadets during the summers. There are five regional gliding schools dedicated to the training of cadets receiving the gliding scholarship course.[30] They are located in Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.[30]
As of the transition to the new program in the 2012/2013 training year, the summer training courses varies from year to year.[31]
Summer training courses (2011)
| Proficiency Level | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | Level 5+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leadership | General Training (GTC) - 2 weeks | Basic Leadership (BLC) - 3 weeks | Leadership and Ceremonial Instructor Course (LCIC) - 6 weeks | ||
| Flying | Basic Aviation (BAC) - 3 weeks | Glider Pilot Scholarship** (GPS) - 6 weeks | |||
| Advanced Aviation (AAC) - 3 weeks | Power Pilot Scholarship* (PPS) - 7 weeks | ||||
| Fitness and Sports | Basic Fitness and Sports (BFSC) - 3 weeks | Fitness and Sports Instructor (FSIC) - 6 weeks | |||
| Survival | Basic Survival (BSC) - 3 weeks | Survival Instructor (SIC) - 6 weeks | |||
| Military Band | Basic Musician (MB-BMC) - 3 weeks | Military Band — Intermediate Musician (MB-IMC) - 6 weeks | |||
| — | Music Levels 4-5 (ML4-5C) - 6 weeks | ||||
| Pipe Band | Basic Musician (PB-BMC) - 3 weeks | Pipe Band — Intermediate Musician (PB-IMC) - 6 weeks | |||
| — | Pipes and Drums Levels 4-5 (PDL4-5) - 6 weeks | ||||
| Aerospace | Basic Aviation Technology and Aerospace (BATAC) 3 weeks |
Advanced Aerospace (AAC) - 3 weeks | |||
| Technology | Advanced Aviation Technology Courses - 6 weeks Airport Operations (AATC-AO) Aircraft Maintenance (AATC-AM) | ||||
| Marksmanship | — | Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor (ARMIC) - 6 weeks | |||
| Exchanges and Trips | — | Oshkosh Trip (OT) | International Air Cadet Exchange*** (IACE) | ||
| Staff Cadet | — | Staff Cadet**** | |||
* A prerequisite for the Power Pilot Scholarship is that cadets must be 17 years old before 1 September of the year of the course.
** A prerequisite for the Glider Pilot Scholarship is that cadets must be 16 years old before 1 September of the year of the course.
*** A prerequisite for being a part of the International Air Cadet Exchange is that cadets must be 17 years old before 1 August of the year of the course.
**** A prerequisite for being a Staff Cadet is that cadets must be 16 years old before 1 January of the year of the course.
Flying
Throughout the spring and fall approximately 22,000 air cadets participate in familiarization gliding at regional gliding centres located across the country.[32] Each summer, 320 cadets earn a Transport Canada Glider Pilot Licence through the Air Cadet Gliding Scholarship and 250 more earn a Private Pilot licence.[33][34] The Air Cadet Gliding Program conducts approximately 60,000 glider flights annually in Schweizer SGS 2-33 and 2-33A gliders.[35][35] The aircraft fleet used by gliding program is owned by the Air Cadet League of Canada. The fleet, consisting of more than 100 gliders and tow planes is maintained by the Canadian Forces under a memorandum of understanding. Canadian Forces pilots and Civilian Instructors operate the fleet to train cadets.[5]
- Aircraft
| Make/Model | Type | Manufacturer | Origins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schweizer SGS 2-33 | Glider | Schweizer Aircraft |  United States
|
| Schweizer SGS 2-33A | Glider | Schweizer Aircraft | United States
|
Ranks
Upon enrollment a new cadet in the Air Cadet Program is known as an "Air Cadet" (AC). Appointment (or promotion) to higher ranks occurs after the cadet has met certain nationally prescribed standards, and in some cases, additional standards prescribed by the local squadron. Since there is no maximum establishment for the ranks of Leading Air Cadet (LAC), Corporal, Flight Corporal, Sergeant and Flight Sergeant promotions to these ranks are based on national standards only and the cadet is automatically promoted when these standards are met.
Because there is a maximum number of established positions for ranks Warrant Officer First Class, one per unit (squadron), promotions are based on the results of a merit review board. The composition of the merit review board shall include a minimum of three to a maximum of five members. As appointed by the squadron Commanding Officer, members shall include: Commanding Officer (or delegate) acting as Board Chairperson; Air Cadet League or local sponsor representative; and a minimum of one and maximum of three additional members from the following: representative(s) of the RCSU CO (Area Cadet Instructor Cadre Officer, Regional Cadet Advisor, Area Cadet Officer, etc.), Squadron CIC Officer(s) (from within own or members of neighbouring corps/sqns), and member(s) of the community (to include: school principal, Legion member, etc.). Prior to 1976 the size of the squadron dictated the top rank available and many squadrons were ineligible to carry a WO1 on their establishment effectively capping promotion at WO2 for the squadron's ranking cadet. [36]
Cadets may be appointed to acting ranks where there is a shortage of available candidates or there is a cadet of exceptional ability. The acting rank is temporary only and the cadet has until the beginning of the next training year to complete all prerequisites for promotion to have the promotion become substantive. Cadets failing to meet the prerequisites by the deadline revert to their previously held substantive rank. A cadet may not be promoted to the same acting rank twice. In all cases, the squadron commanding officer is the final authority for all promotions within the squadron.[37]
Responsibilities are given to cadets upon reaching corporal, the first NCO rank. In September 2007, the rank of "flight corporal" was introduced. The badge is similar to the insignia of a flight sergeant incorporating a crown above two chevrons.[38] The new rank brought the rank progression for the sea, army, and air cadet programs into line. Flight corporals and corporals generally assistant a more senior cadet — such as a flight sergeant who leads a flight (a small, organizational group of cadets). Sergeants are responsible for most of the day-to-day activities of the squadron and assist the flight sergeants as second in command of a flight. Warrant Officers work closely with the officer staff of the squadron, assisting with administration, logistical, leadership, and training. In smaller squadrons, these roles may be filled by more junior cadets.
The official phrasing for the ranks uses the word "Cadet" as a preface — as an example, Cadet Corporal. However, custom omits "Cadet" in casual reference.[3] Thus, Corporal is the usual wording. Generally, where there is a need to distinguish between cadets and Canadian Forces members, ranks will be written or spoken as Cadet Corporal and abbreviated as C/Cpl.
While it is customary within the organization to refer to a cadet receiving a rank as being "promoted," the official documentation (Queens Rules and Regulations (Cadets) and CATO) vary: the senior document describing progression as an "appointment", the other describing progression as "promotion".
This chart displays the rank structure of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets.[39]
| Air Cadet | Leading Air Cadet - Cadet de l'Air 1ière classe |
|---|---|
|
For promotion to Leading Air Cadet (LAC) a cadet must:
|
| Corporal - Caporal | Flight Corporal - Caporal de Section |
|---|---|
For promotion to Corporal (Cpl) a cadet must:
|
For promotion to Flight Corporal (FCpl), a cadet must:
|
| Sergeant - Sergent | Flight Sergeant - Sergent de Section |
For promotion to Sergeant (Sgt), a cadet must:
|
For promotion to Flight Sergeant (FSgt), a cadet must:
Program;
|
| Warrant Officer 2nd Class - Adjudant 2ième classe | Warrant Officer 1st Class - Adjudant 1ière classe |
|---|---|
For promotion to Warrant Officer Second Class (WO2), a cadet must: 
|
For promotion to Warrant Officer 1st Class (WO1), a cadet must: 
|
Music appointments
Cadet bands are led by cadets holding the appointment of drum major or, in the case of pipe and drum bands, a pipe major and a drum major. The pipe major is responsible for song selection and other musical aspects of the band with the drum major being responsible for drill, dress and discipline. The appointments are made at the discretion of the Squadron Commanding Officer often with the recommendations of the Band and Training Officers. Unlike other cadet appointments, there is no rank or training prerequisites for drum major or pipe major.
| Drum Major | Pipe Major |
|---|---|
|
|
Medals
The Canadian Cadet Movement maintains its own Honours and Awards System[40] Cadets may be awarded medals based on criteria including bravery, citizenship, service, outstanding performance on a summer training course, and more. In addition, cadets may also wear, on their uniform, any medals, orders and decorations they have been awarded from the Canadian Honours System.[41]
Within the Cadet Honours System, there are several medals common to all three cadet elements and some that are unique to each. A cadet who transfers from one element to another may continue to wear any medals awarded from their previous service[42] but, in general, air cadets may be eligible for the following six medals:
| Cadet Medal for Bravery | Lord Strathcona Medal | Royal Canadian Legion Cadet Medal of Excellence |
|---|---|---|
The Cadet Medal for Bravery is awarded for acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances. It is also given in recognition of outstanding deed of valour, involving risk of his or her life, in attempting to save the life or property of another person.[43] |
 The Lord Strathcona Medal is awarded for recognition of exemplary performance in physical and military training.[44] |
 The Royal Canadian Legion Cadet Medal of Excellence recognizes individual endeavours of a citizenship nature which meet or enhance the aims and objectives of the cadet organizations.[45] |
| Air Force Association Medal (Air Cadets) | Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans Medal | Air Cadet Service Medal |
The Air Force Association Medal (Air Cadets) recognizes one air cadet in each province who achieves outstanding excellence at the Senior Leaders Course (SLC).[46] |
The Army, Navy, Air Force Veterans Medal is presented to Air Cadets for outstanding athletic excellence. Candidates for the Medal will be nominated and selected from the Air Cadet Athletic Instructors Course. A Medal will be awarded to the top female and male graduate from each course.[47] |
The Air Cadet Service Medal recognizes all air cadets who have completed four years of honourable service with no serious infractions.[48] |
Symbols
Flags
Royal Canadian Air Cadet Banner
The RCAirC Banner is flown only on important ceremonial occasions to indicate the presence of a formed body of cadets, and, at the end of useful life, is deposited, after the manner of colours, in some suitable location. Currently, the banner is paraded only during the Senior Leadership Course graduation parade in August of each year. The Banner was presented in 1991 at the Senior Leadership School at CFB Cold Lake, and is paraded at the Senior Leaders Course graduation parades each summer. Though not consecrated, this flag parallels Air Force Command Colours and is carried in the same manner.[49] Cadets pay compliments to the Banner in a similar manner to a consecrated colour. Members of the CF are not required to pay compliments to the Banner but may do so as a courtesy.[50]
Royal Canadian Air Cadet Ensign
Originally approved in 1941, the RCAirC Ensign was modified in 1971 to incorporate the National Flag in the canton. This flag parallels a Canadian Forces command flag (as distinct from a Command Colour).[49] The ensign is normally flown at the Squadron and often carried as part of a flag party. It is always flown from a mast or pole at RCAirC summer training centres.
Squadron Banner
The Squadron Banner parallels an Air Force Squadron Standard and is carried by squadrons as their specific unit identifier. Unlike a Squadron Standard, however, an Air Cadet Squadron Banner may not be consecrated nor can they emblazoned with battle honours. Though Squadron Banners may not be consecrated they may, be dedicated and may be laid up in a manner paralleling similar ceremonies for Squadron Standards. Compliments are paid to the Squadron Banner in the same manner as the RCAirC Banner.[50] Based on a standard Banner design (shown on the right), the squadron's name and number are embroidered in place of "Squadron Banner" and "000."[49]. It should be noted, however, that the Air Cadet League did for a brief period allow the acquisition of Squadron Banners featuring the individual squadron's badge in place of standard design. It is unclear, should any of these banners require replacement, if anything other than the standard design will be authorized.
Flag parties
In some squadrons, the Ensign and Squadron Banner are carried by a flag party with the Canadian flag (see image in the Local training section above), despite Canadian Forces custom being for one- or two-flag parties only. Subject to regional regulations, flag party escorts may carry deactivated drill purpose rifles.
Badge
The emblem of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets consists of a circle surrounded by a wreath of maple leaves, superimposed with a flying falcon, the head to the sinister (left). The whole is crowned by the Royal crown — fashioned as a St. Edward's Crown — to symbolise the Canadian Monarch as the Cadets' source of authority. This all rests on a scroll displaying the words "Royal Canadian Air Cadets/Cadets de l'aviation royale du Canada". It is worn as a brass or embroidered badge on the left side of the wedge cap and other formal headdress, and as an embroidered patch on the all-weather jacket. The original hat badge featured an eagle surmounted by single maple leaf with two underlying scrolls reading "Air Cadets Canada".
Notable former air cadets
- Barbara Bonfiglio, Electronica Disc Jockey also known as Misstress Barbara [51]
- George Canyon, Country and Western singer.[52]
- Joe Clark, former Prime Minister
- Garde Gardom, former Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
- Marc Garneau, astronaut
- Chris Hadfield, astronaut
- Jeremy Hansen, astronaut[53]
- Ray Hnatyshyn, former Governor General of Canada
- Fred Penner, musician and children's entertainer
- Tyrone Pile, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific
- Steven Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
- Brian Tobin, former Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador[54]
- Walter Natynczyk, current Chief of the Defence Staff[55]
- Colonel Paul Keddy, Commander 15 Wing, Moose Jaw
- Maryse Carmichael, first female Snowbird and Commanding Officer of the Snowbirds
- Dr. Richard N. MacLennan, Professor & Head of Psychology, University of Regina
- Raymond L. McFeetors, current president and CEO of Great West Life
- Mike de Jong, BC politician
See also
- Canadian Cadet Movement
- Royal Canadian Sea Cadets
- Royal Canadian Army Cadets
- History of the Cadet Instructors Cadre
- Cadets Canada - corporate identity
- Canadian Forces
- Air Training Corps (UK)
- Australian Air Force Cadets
- New Zealand Air Training Corps
- Civil Air Patrol
References
- ^ a b "Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of National Defence and the Air Cadet League of Canada" (PDF). 2005-12-01. Archived from the original (PDF) on September 26, 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ a b "Backgrounder: The Canadian Cadet Organizations" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 1999-12-06. Archived from the original (PDF) on February 11, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ a b c "Level one Air Cadet training handbook (7.7 MB)" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 1998-07-01. Archived from the original (PDF) on December 8, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: About - History". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-10-22. Retrieved 2007-04-12. [dead link]
- ^ a b "The Air Cadet Story: The "Air" in Air Cadets". Retrieved 2007-04-12.
{{cite web}}: Unknown parameter|=ignored (help) [dead link] - ^ a b "National Defence Cadet Website: Media info - Statistics". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-09-29. Retrieved 2007-04-12. [dead link]
- ^ a b "National Defence Cadet Website: About - Program overview". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2006-09-06. Archived from the original on June 24, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "Backgrounder: The Cadet Instructors Cadre" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 1999-12-06. Archived from the original (PDF) on February 11, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "National Defence Act". Department of Justice (Canada). 2007-03-19. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ a b "The Air Cadet Story: The Early Days". The Air Cadet League of Canada (Manitoba). Archived from the original on June 22, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ a b c d "The Air Cadet Story: The Post-War Period". The Air Cadet League of Canada (Manitoba). Retrieved 2007-04-12. [dead link]
- ^ "The Air Cadet Story: The Post-Unification Years". The Air Cadet League of Canada (Manitoba). Retrieved 2007-04-12. [dead link]
- ^ Srikanthan, Thulasi (2005-08-04). "'A lot fewer white people': Once pale and male, the cadet corps is diversifying". MacLean's. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: About - Partnership". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-03-04. Archived from the original on December 11, 2004. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: Air Cadet Course Training Standards and Plans". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-07-20. Archived from the original on February 15, 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: About - Air Cadets". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-10-22. Archived from the original on January 9, 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ Topf, Andrew (2007-05-09). "Cadets top the field at First Aid contest". Goldstream News Gazette. Retrieved 2007-05-19.
- ^ Mandel, Michelle (2007-04-12). "'I had to be here'". Toronto Sun. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ Henderson, Paul (2007-03-16). "Strike up the band". Chilliwack Times. Archived from the original on March 24, 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ Capt Catherine Griffin (Spring/Summer 2006). "Cadet Program Update - What You Really Want to Know!" (PDF). Cadence (Issue 19). Retrieved 2007-06-30.
{{cite news}}: Check date values in:|date=(help) [dead link] - ^ Capt Catherine Griffin (Winter 2006). "Age-appropriate learning" (PDF). Cadence (Issue 21). Retrieved 2007-06-30. [dead link]
- ^ "Royal Canadian Air Cadets Proficiency Level One - Qualification Standard and Plan, Chapter 2" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 2007-01-01. Retrieved 2007-04-12. [dead link]
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: Familiarization Course Descriptions". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-05-05. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ a b c "National Defence Cadet Website: Introduction to Specialty Course Descriptions". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-05-05. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "Transport Canada quarterly licencing statistics". Transport Canada. 2007-01-15. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "Air Cadet Symbols". Department of National Defence (Canada). Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "National Cadet Website: The History of the Greenwood Air Cadet Summer Training Centre". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-02-27. Retrieved 2007-05-24.
- ^ "History of Penhold Air Cadet Summer Training Centre". Retrieved 2007-05-24.
- ^ "National Cadet Website: Albert Head". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2006-07-10. Retrieved 2007-05-24.
- ^ a b "BC Air Cadets unveil brand new tow plane". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2007-01-30. Retrieved 2007-05-24.
- ^ http://cms.cadets.gc.ca/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=56967
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: Air Cadets - Gliding". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-09-08. Archived from the original on July 13, 2006. Retrieved 2007-05-28.
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: Air Cadets - Gliding Scholarships". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2005-04-12. Archived from the original on June 22, 2006. Retrieved 2007-05-28.
- ^ "National Defence Cadet Website: Air Cadets - Power Flying". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-09-08. Archived from the original on December 7, 2006. Retrieved 2007-05-28.
- ^ a b "National Defence Cadet Website: Air Cadets - The Glider". Department of National Defence (Canada). 2004-09-08. Archived from the original on December 8, 2006. Retrieved 2007-05-28. Cite error: The named reference "Schweizer" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
- ^ "Cadet Administrative Training Orders 13-02" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 2008-10-01. Retrieved 2009-01-29.
- ^ "Cadet Administrative Training Orders 51-02" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 2007-03-01. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 25, 2005. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ "Cadet Administrative and Training Orders 51-2" (PDF). Department of National Defence (Canada). 2007-03-01. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 25, 2005. Retrieved 2007-04-12.
- ^ http://www.cadets.net/support/cato-oaic/intro_e.asp?cato=13-02
- ^ Cadet Administrative and Training Order 13-16 NATIONAL CADET HONOURS AND AWARDS.
- ^ Cadet Administrative and Training Order 13-16 NATIONAL CADET HONOURS AND AWARDS paragraph 17
- ^ Cadet Administrative and Training Order 13-16 NATIONAL CADET HONOURS AND AWARDS paragraph 16
- ^ "Cadets - Bravery". Archived from the original on May 13, 2007. Retrieved July 18, 2008.
- ^ "Cadets - Lord Strathcona Medal". Archived from the original on May 13, 2007. Retrieved July 18, 2008.
- ^ "Cadets - Royal Canadian Legion Cadet Medal of Excellence". Retrieved July 18, 2008.
- ^ "Cadets - Air Cadet Receives Air Force Association Medal". Retrieved September 13, 2008.
- ^ http://www.aircadetleague.com/en/infoforcadetsandsquadron/awardscadets/details.asp?id=25}}
- ^ "Air Cadet League - Air Cadet Service Medal". Archived from the original on June 20, 2008. Retrieved July 20, 2008.
- ^ a b c Department of National Defence (2001-01-05). A-AD-200-000/AG-000 The Honours, Flags and Heritage Structure of the Canadian Forces Chap 4 Annex A. Directorate of History and Heritage.
- ^ a b "Cadet Administrative Training Order 12-05 Cadet Flags and Banners" (PDF). Department of National Defence. 1999-01-01. Retrieved 2008-06-21. [dead link]
- ^ Major Carlo DeCiccio (Summer 2001). "Renowned 'DJ' is former air cadet" (PDF). Cadence (Issue 2). Retrieved 2008-08-30. [dead link]
- ^ http://www.cadets.ca/regions/atl/content-contenu.aspx?id=95843
- ^ http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronauts/biohansen.asp
- ^ "Cadet Alumni". 2004-10-22. Retrieved 2007-08-05.
- ^ http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/about-notresujet/bio/Gen-Walt-Natynczyk-eng.asp
External links
- Canadian Cadet Organization
- Air Cadet League of Canada
- National RCACS Unit Directory
- List of civilian organizations with the prefix "Royal" prepared by the Department of Canadian Heritage
