Alberta's oldest Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron celebrated history with its 72nd Annual Ceremonial Review Parade on June 7 at the Red Deer Airport.
More than 100 parents, cadet supporters and dignitaries watched as the members of 7 Penhold Squadron entered, drilled, paraded and celebrated their achievements with their peers.
Master of ceremonies Colin Penman opened the day as the nearly 30 cadets marched into Springbrook's Hanger 6. Innisfail RCMP Const. Chris Lavery and two members of Innisfail's Royal Canadian Legion #104 then inspected the group.
Prior to their march past, Penman commemorated Reg Schewchuk, who served 7 Penhold Squadron for 35 years in various capacities -- from supply sergeant to captain. He passed away last February.
The afternoon progressed with award presentations for Top Cadet Rookie, Most Improved Cadet, Top Junior Cadet, Top Senior Cadet, 7 Penhold esprit de corps, RCAF Top Cadet, Royal Canadian Legion Medal of Excellence and the Lord Strathcona presentation.
Parade Cmdr. Katlyn Merkley won the medal of excellence, and Squadron Warrant Officer Field Sgt. Jarrod Crashley was awarded the Top Senior Cadet, RCAF Top Cadet and the Lord Strathcona honour.
The 7 Squadron drill team put on a presentation for the audience, after which the squadron was dismissed and mingled with attendees.
“This is a fantastic program,” said Ed MacPherson of #104 Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion. “There are so many opportunities for youth with the cadets and some have gone on to the Royal Military College.”
Penhold resident Troy Frere's son Tyson is part of the cadet program and said it is a great experience for him.
“He has learned to show respect to his commanders and elders by being here,” said Frere. “His fellow cadets are a good influence on him and his leaders are good role models. I am proud of his achievements.”
A group of cadets glowed about the air cadet program after the awards presentation and spoke about the opportunities for them to learn survival skills, marksmanship skills, biathlon, glider and aerospace introductions, and leadership.
“There are only a few cadets who are taking power and glider this year,” said cadet Austin West. “But within the organization it is possible to travel internationally on the international Oshkosh trip, or to just stay around Penhold with local camps.”
Capt. Stephen Dodman added the motto of the squadron is “to learn, to serve, to advance” and that he was proud to be part of 7 Penhold.
Further information on the squadron can be found at http://7rcacs.weebly.com/
