One of the most interesting projects that kicked-off with our 75th anniversary celebrations is our search for Air Cadet Alumni. We have been trying to find out where you are now – many of you have said, “I wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t been an Air Cadet”. Join our Cadet Alumni and tell us your “Cadet story”. Sign-up and you will receive our quarterly Air Cadet League of Canada electronic newsletter. Spread the word! Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter; let’s get reconnected.
Here are some incredible “Cadet Stories” of past air cadets:
Air Cadets gave me a huge jump into aviation; attaining my glider pilot, private pilot and glider instructor ratings, as well gliding tow pilot. The professionalism and leadership that I was shown at a young age helped me in my future career as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer at a number of aircraft maintenance companies, regional airlines and finally at the Flight Research Laboratory of the National Research Council in Ottawa. The hard work of volunteers that I saw when I was an Air Cadet continues today, as I witnessed while serving on the sponsoring committee of my son’s squadron. – P.T.
I began my Cadet career with 618 Queen City Squadron in 1973 and ended it in 1991 as a Captain and DCO, still at 618. I am a school teacher but I really learned how to teach via effective speaking classes, the Basic Officer Course and the Non-Commissioned Officer Course to name just a few of the tremendous experiences I had on my Cadet journey. The Air Cadets is an outstanding program for today’s and tomorrow’s youth. I wouldn’t be who I am today without Cadets.—V.J.
I joined Cadets solely for the survival experience promised on the poster at my junior high school. I joined, my mother telling me I probably wouldn’t like it. I was excited for the first survival camp, four months after I had joined. As a level one, we spent the first hour learning how to light a match. I know we had to start somewhere, but matches? Really? I endured and at the end of my third year I was awarded the Survival Instructor Course. I went and had the best time of my life. I am still in contact with several people from the Cold Lake days, and I will never forget how much I learned. My experience as a Cadet has let me flourish as an author. I have dedicated a survival book that I have written to the Cadet program. Look for it on store shelves. – H.H.
Click on the link below to locate information on the Canadian Cadet Organizations Cadet Corps and Squadron Directory.