When a cadet puts on their freshly pressed uniform and carefully shined shoes, the reflection staring back at them in the mirror is one to be proud of.
Self-respect is just one of the many benefits any cadet program offers to youth aged 12 to 18, among others like commitment and leadership.
Members of the Barrhead 526 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, who are setting the bar for this generation and the generation to come, wrapped up another year last week.
Congratulations were in order at the squadron’s annual inspection June 11, as several people commended the cadets for their hard work this year.
MLA for Barrhead Maureen Kubinec was glad to see the spirit of cadets’ work in the community.
“Today’s inspection requires important preparation, team work, cooperation and hard work,” she said. “The dedication and hard work of the Barrhead 526 Squadron is an ongoing and significant contribution to our community and to our region.”
Chuck Mortimer, president of the Barrhead Royal Canadian Legion Branch #75 also congratulated the cadets, particularly those who were honoured with awards that evening.
Mortimer, who is pleased the Legion sponsors the cadets, knows the benefits that can come with being involved as his son went through the program. Although opportunities are available, he said, each individual has to work hard for them.
“If you don’t work at it, you won’t get much out of it,” said Mortimer. “I want to encourage you to expand your squadron and to work at all the training you can get, because you will benefit, the community will benefit, and the country will benefit.”
Though onlookers were happy to see youth involved in the program, some questioned why there weren’t more cadets in Barrhead.
Reviewing officer Wilf Seal, a WWII veteran, said he doesn’t know why a young person wouldn’t take the opportunity to get involved.
The Barrhead squadron’s door is always open to new faces, waiting to show youth a plethora of possibility.
