ON-TARGET

Fall / Winter 2013

The Army Cadet League of Canadas National Newsletter

Happy Holidays
from the President and members of the

Also in this issue:

Army Cadets have a new Colonel Commandant page 3 Canadas Most Outstanding Army Cadet...page 4 National Expedition to Haida Gwaii...pages 8 & 9 Encounters With Canada...page 24 The Vimy Foundation An oportunity for Cadets...page 32

Apply for the Gerard Buckley Cadet Fund by Dec 15th...page 3

ON-TARGET is an official publication of The Army Cadet League of Canada. Views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the League or its Board of Governors. ON-TARGET welcomes submissions from cadets, members, CIC officers, volunteers and parents. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for length and style. Please submit your articles or announcements by e-mail at commsofficer@armycadetleague.ca Editor in Chief Maxime Corneau, Communications Officer Deputy Editor Jennifer Golden, Executive Assistant Assistant to the Deputy Editor Terence Whitty, Executive Director Contributors Cathy Bach, National PR Committee Chair Elaine McDernid, National PR Committee for Alberta Marilyn Walkom, National PR Committee for Ontario Captain Mike Blackwell., SO3 Expedition (Land), RCSU PAC Cadet MWO Austin Bowles, 2483 PPCLI RCACC,,Victoria, BC 2Lt Jake Rideout, UPAR, 2444 Kings County RCACC, NS MWO Kirklan Huntley, 2444 Kings County 2ndLt. Bianca Fung, Marksmanship Coach at 105 RCACC, ON Karen Murphy Corr, PA, Sponsoring Committee, 2277 RCACC Cadet Eric Bolech,2520 -71 Battery RCACC, Brandon, MB Major Rob Thompson, ACICO, PAC Region Jasmine Ouellette, Encounters with Canada 2nd Lt Betty Froese PAO Whitehorse CSTC Mr. Barry Gerus, Father of Cadet Gerus, PEI Cadet Kaleb Perry, 2444 RCACC, Aldershot, Nova Scotia Nicholas Alexandris, ED of The Vimy Foundation Cpl Archibald, Mackenzie, 2928 Truro RCACC Greg Chan, CO, 2893 Seaforth RCACC , Port Coquitlam BC Capt. William Banks, Commanding Officer 1944 EME RCACC Capt. N. James, Public Affairs - Web Content Officer (DCdts) Translation Andr Montgiraud Return undeliverable to ON-TARGET The Army Cadet League of Canada 66 Lisgar Street Ottawa, ON, K2P 0C1 Tel613-991-4348 Toll Free1-877-276-9223 E-mail: commsofficer@armycadetleague.ca www.armycadetleague.ca Twitter: @Armycadetleague

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Army Cadets have a new Colonel Commandant Canadas Most Outstanding Army Cadet The Walsh Award Presentation Ceremony Waterdown Cadet Receives Prestigious Provincial Award National Expedition18 Army Cadets travel to Haida Gwaii A cadets Experience on the National Expedition The Major General Howard Medal Nova Scotia Army Cadet Earns Wings My experience on the Army Cadet Basic Parachutist Never Give Up on Your Dreams New book by Army Cadet League Director tells stories of Canadas underage soldiers Working together a win for Cadets and Legion An Opportunity of a LifeTtime Outward Bound Scotland Exchange Brandon Army Cadet takes on the Northern Challenge in Whitehorse, YK Seaforth Cadet Corps Exchange with Scotland Cadets Encounters With Canada A Team of Many Hands Accomplishes Much A Remembrance Day Ceremony in Whitecourt PEI Cadet Experiences Remembrance Day in Ottawa A Cadet Pays Tribute to the Fallen in Flanders Field The Vimy Foundation An oportunity for Cadets A cadets experience at Camp Argonaut A BC Cadet at RMC Creemore Cadets Win Challenge Against Ontario Provincial Police The World Wide Web A Tool to Enhance Communication 3 4 6 7 8 9 11 12 12 14 17 18 20 22 23 24 27 28 29 30 32 33 33 34 35
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ARMY CADETS HAVE A NEW COLONEL COMMANDANT

Brigadier-General (Retired) R.R. Romses, OMM, CD Brigadier-General (Retd) Romses grew up in Lethbridge, Alberta and is a graduate of the University of Lethbridge. He began his military service as an army cadet in Lethbridge in 1967. He attended Vernon Army Cadet Camp for two summers the second of which he was selected as the Cadet Parade Commander. In winter 1970 he placed first on the Alberta Master Cadet exams and was selected to attend a summer cadet exchange to Barbados. Following this activity he was commissioned as a Lieutenant with the Cadet Services of Canada and worked with the 2296 18th Field Regiment RCA Cadet Corps and instructed at the Banff National Army Cadet Camp for two summers. In 1972 he was accepted into the Regular Officer Training Plan and later commissioned in 1975 as a Lieutenant with the Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI). He then served in a wide variety of positions whilst on numerous postings in Calgary, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Petawawa, Toronto, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. General Romses commanded at various levels including: the First Battalion Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry (1989-91), Canadas Special Forces unit Joint Task Force Two (1992-94), Canadian Forces Base Calgary (1994-96), Commander Land Force Atlantic Area (2003-05), and Commander Canadian Defence Liaison Staff (London, England) (2005-08). His international experience included two United Nations Cyprus tours (1978 and 1991), a posting with the 3rd Battalion British Parachute Regiment (1981-82), service whilst CO 1PPCLI with both the Allied Command Europe (ACE) Mobile Force and NATO Composite Force, completed a NATO Stabilization Force (SFOR) tour as Canadian Contingent Commander in Bosnia (1998), was Chief of Staff of the Multinational Stand-by High Readiness Brigade for United Nations operations (SHIRBRIG) (1999-2001) in Denmark, completed a United Nations tour in Ethiopia and Eritrea as the Force Chief of Staff from November 2000 to May 2001, and whilst Commander CDLS (London) he was also accredited as Canadas Defence Attach to the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. In this latter capacity he was responsible for managing Canadas defence relationship with those two countries. General Romses completed his duties in London, England and then retired from the Canadian Forces effective 1 April 2009 and lives in Lethbridge, Alberta. He is currently President of the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association, President of the Army Cadet League of Canada (Alberta), Director of the Southern Alberta Commissionaires, and is Chairman of the Lethbridge Military Museum Committee. He was also President of the Lethbridge United Services Club from February 2010 to February 2012, a Director of the Last Post Fund (Alberta) from May 2010 to August 2012, and a Director of 702 Wing Royal Canadian Air Force Association from June 2011 to June 2013. Brigadier-General Romses has a Bachelor of Arts Degree (1975-UofL), Master of Arts (2004-RMC), and was honoured as the University of Lethbridge Distinguished Alumnus of the Year in 2005. He is married to Carol Romses (nee Ririe formerly of Magrath) and they have one son, Roger, who is married and living in Keswick, Ontario.

$3000.00 Grants Available to Finance Your Corps Activities. Does your corps need assistance to fund: Biathlon Program for cadets Music programs for cadets Marksmanship and hunter safety training for cadets Adventure training program and expeditions for cadets Optional training activity subjects conducted by cadet groups Citizenship activities for cadets (i.e. Cadets Caring for Canada) Cadet groups that are disadvantaged in their geographical area for their ability to raise monies and resources for training will receive priority You could qualify for one of four grants offered to corps across Canada by Mr. Gerard Buckley and the ACLC Submit your application ACLCs National Office no later than December 15th, 2013 For further information refer to policy 17.1 of the ACLCs National Policy Manual
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CANADAS MOST OUTSTANDING ARMY CADET

By Maxime Corneau, Communications Officer, ACLC National Office

The Army Cadet League of Canada (ACLC) and the Royal Canadian Legion are pleased to announce that Cadet Chief Warrant Officer Srosh Hassan from Edmonton, AB, of the 2551 Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Cadet Corps was named Canadas most outstanding Army Cadet and the recipient of the 2013 General Walsh Memorial Sword. On October 7th, 2013, during an official ceremony organized by the Alberta Branch of the ACLC, Cadet Hassan was presented the Award. Further details and photos of this event can be found on page 6. The General Walsh Memorial Sword is the highest national prize for any Army Cadet. The award was created in 2004 by the Army Cadet League of Canada in partnership with Royal Canadian Legion, and named in honour of Lieutenant General Geoffrey Walsh, CBE, DSO, CD, who dedicated much of his time to the Army Cadet Program. Recipients of the award are chosen not only based on their performance as Army cadets but also for their community involvement and their academic standings. "The Army Cadet League of Canada (Alberta) is both honoured and thrilled to hear that Cadet Srosh Hassan has been chosen as Canada's Walsh Award winner. She is truly an exemplary cadet and an outstanding role model for the Army Cadet Program", said the President of the Alberta Branch, BrigadierGeneral (retired) Ray Romses, OMM, CD, who is also the new Colonel-Commandant of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets. C/CWO Hassan is an energetic and dynamic individual who has achieved recognition as an outstanding citizen of Alberta and Canada by receiving The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. In every aspect of her life, Cadet Hassan is a self-disciplined and conscientious person who has dedicated herself to her family, her school, her community, her mosque, and Cadets. As a cadet, Srosh attended the National Army Cadet Summer

Training Centre Connaught near Ottawa, ON, for the past three summers and has become a superb Marksman having gone to Bisley, England with The National Rifle Team in 2012. Back at her corps, as the Sergeant Major, Cadet Hassan is a model Cadet for all to look up to. She is meticulous in her deportment even out of uniform. She has become an extremely confident and methodical communicator that can articulate her thoughts in mature conversation. She is highly respected by all whom she is associated with. Cadets who are nominated for this award must also demonstrate their strength in the academic aspect of their life. As for Srosh, she attends the Old Scona Academic School, which has been ranked as the number one academic school in the province of Alberta by the Fraser Institute. Students have to go through a challenging entrance process and must meet minimum levels in academics, character and standardized testing scores. Based on her current academic achievements, Srosh is ranked in the top 5% of academic students in the province of Alberta. Cadet Hassan intends to pursue her postsecondary education to study sciences at the University of Alberta or McGill, in Montreal.

Cadet Hassan is an all-around exceptional individual who volunteers with various organizations including her Mosque. As a young Muslim woman, Srosh was chosen this year to speak at a Muslim Womens and Girls event focussing on immigrant Canadians integration into Canadian society. In 2011, Cadet Hassan was the Muslim Association of Canada Junior High School Student of the Year. She has volunteered in after school care programs and has been involved with her school Brain Care Centre Youth Organization, devoted to helping brain injury survivors and promoting awareness of brain injuries. She is also consistently involved in organizing various fund raising events for her Cadet Hassan is pictured here (middle row centre) with the National RCAC Rifle team corps. who competed in Bisley, England during the summer of 2012.
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BGen Romses also adds, This young woman is focused and goal driven. She demonstrates qualities in every aspect of her life, showing extreme compassion and respect of others. She is a self-reliant individual who prides herself on her high moral standards, her honesty, and integrity. Cadet Srosh Hassan is one of Canadas leaders of tomorrow and is truly deserving of the Walsh Award for the 2013 Top Cadet in Canada.

As the winner of the Walsh Sword, Cadet Hassan travelled to Ottawa, as a guest of the Royal Canadian Legion to attend the How you feel about being the Top Army " November 11th Remembrance Day Cadet in Canada?" Cadet Hassan with her two perfect ceremony at the National War Memorial, targets at the National It's unbelievable. Being nominated for it Marksmanship completion in 2012 as part of the Vice-Regal party. was a wonderful surprise, but getting the Following the ceremony, she also had title? That's a dream come true. Ive met the opportunity to meet both the Governor General and exceptional cadets and to be recognized as one is just the Chief of the Defence Staff at the Luncheon for the such an honour. Im so proud to be the first Army Cadet Silver Cross Mother hosted by the Governor General at from Alberta to achieve this title and Im looking forward to working at different regional events in the hopes of Rideau Hall. inspiring other cadets to achieve this goal. Most of all, Ill We wish Cadet Hassan the best in her future endeavors continue to strive for and exemplify what it means to be and wish her to have an outstanding year with her corps. an outstanding Army Cadet. Prior to the Remembrance Day ceremony, as the ******* Communications Officer for the National Office of the After my visit with Srosh, I felt honoured once again, to ACLC in Ottawa, I had the opportunity to meet with this have met, another outstanding and well rounded young exemplary cadet. During that time I wanted to get a better individual who certainly deserved to be named Top Army idea of her experience as a cadet and how she felt the Cadet of Canada this year. Every cadet who has received program benefited her. Here is what she said: this title, since I started here at the National office in "What does the cadet program mean to you?" 2007 has impressed me and left me in awe of all the It's one awesome experience, one grand adventure no accomplishments theyve achieved at such a young age. matter what element you go into. Personally, going into Srosh will be invited to attend the National ACLC AGM in Army Cadets, I learned so much about myself, others and April, and I look forward to introducing her to all our what it means to be a Canadian citizen. members and guests that attend our Awards Banquet. "What has the cadet I invite all the future program done for senior cadets to strive to you?" reach for the top and to Its provided me with achieve success in one challenge after everything that you do. another, with me eager Take every opportunity to face each one. Going the program can offer into the program I you and be the best you wasn't very ambitious, can. You may yourself, but after seeing all the be a candidate for this great opportunities title in the next few of down the road like years. travelling and shooting, I was hooked. For example, I got to attend Connaught NACSTC in Cadet Hassan practicing her standing Ontario for two Thumbs up from Cadet Hassan with shooting at the National Marksmanship summers shooting C11s 2551 PPCLI during an FTX
completion in 2012

and C12s at distances up to 1000 yards. Summer of 2012, I qualified to be a part of the RCAC National Rifle Team and I was shooting at the International level in Bisley, England. How many teenagers get to do something like that? Throughout that adventure and so many more, I met amazing individuals from all over Canada that Im proud to call my friends. We've shaped each other, grown together and made memorable experiences. Ive drastically changed as a person and I can't imagine who I'd be if I chose to quit early or never join.

THE WALSH AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY

ByElaine McDermid, National PR Committee Representative for Alberta

At the Jefferson Armouries in Edmonton, AB, home of the 2551 PPCLI RCACC, 07 October 2013 . Their motto is This is a fine regiment. You can make it the finest written across the wall where the cadets can see it every parade night! What an inspirational parade facility! What an inspirational cadet! On this night of October 7, 2013, the Walsh award was presented to C/CWO Hassan. The cadets, the family members, friends, and Army Cadet League of Canada - Alberta members who attended were in awe of the quiet, respectful, and lovely young person who has achieved so much. C/CWO Srosh Hassan is a young lady with lofty goals which will be accomplished with dignity in the future, but BGen Romses, CCWO Hassan, Capt. Russell and right now this ACLC rep Fred Goldring distinctive award will be treasured and will go with her whatever her prospects.

further details). With so many great people working together great things can happen! An official ceremony was organized to CCWO Hassan and BGen Romses pictured here present the award. At the holding the Walsh Commemorative Sword. start of the parade you could see that the staff required the highest standard of dress and deportment from all the cadets for this event, in uniform or not. The new Cadets, without uniforms yet, were required to wear dress slacks with white shirts nicely pressed and shoes that shined. Cadet Chief Warrant Officer, Srosh Hassan, is an excellent model for dress and deportment. She stands relaxed but perfect. That was only the start! After they formed up, they were ready for the parade inspection by BGen Raymond Romses, OMM, CD, President of the Alberta Branch of the Army Cadet League, (and newly appointed Colonel Commandant of the Army Cadets), the Cadets of the 2251 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps were in perfect formation. The younger ones were in the middle ranks so they could have a better visual aspect of what to do. What an excellent idea!

To make this historical event happen, everything started on the recommendation from the Commanding Officer, The whole unit was listening carefully to what BGen Capt. S. Russell to the Army Cadet League of Canada Romses had to say. He mentioned the history of the Alberta Branch, stating Cadet Hassan be considered for Walsh Award, the reason why C/CWO Hassan was the Top Army Cadet of Canada award, also known as the receiving the award and how it was his great pleasure to Walsh Award. Ken Usher, (Albertas Vice President on present this award to such an outstanding young the Army Cadet League of Canadas National Council) woman. What a big smile from both! then followed up on this recommendation with an The corps parade was dismissed to be followed by a interview of the cadet and the CO. Once the Provincial Branch approved Cadet Hassans nomination for the round of photos. award, it was sent to the National A nice lunch was provided where Office of the ACLC in Ottawa BGen Romses and Cadet Hassan walking everyone mingled and got some time who evaluated the applications through the ranks during the corps to talk with Cadet Hassan and the received from across Canada and inspection. families of all the cadets who accepted the recommendation of attended this prestigious award Cadet Hassan the Most ceremony. Outstanding Army Cadet in Everyone present enjoyed the evening Canada for 2013. It is important and were thankful to the corps, and to note that the ACLCs National their staff for their hard and dedicated Office works closely with the work in organizing this Royal Canadian Legion on this historical event! award (see article on page 5 for
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The National Office offers customized recruiting posters. For more information and to view samples Visit www.armycadetleague.ca/toolbox We will customize them to your requirements, just let us know what you need. First 50 copies supplied at no charge!

WATERDOWN CADET RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS PROVINCIAL AWARD

Submitted by the ACLC Ontario Branch

On Thursday, September 26 Master Warrant Officer(MWO) Alexander Brennan received the Army Cadet League of Canada (Ontario) Top Cadet award. During a Commanding Officers parade in front of 64 of his Army Cadet comrades in Burlington, Ontario, he was presented the Presidents Award by Mr. Donald McCumber, President of the Army Cadet League of Canada (Ontario). The award is presented to the Top Army Cadet in Ontario as determined by an Army Cadet League award committee. The recipient of the award is then submitted as Ontarios nominee for the prestigious General Walsh Memorial Award in competition with other cadets chosen from Cadet Brennan pictured with D. each of the provinces and territories
McCumber,and his

and medals during the course of his cadet career, including: The Legion medal of Excellence, Lord Strathcona Medal, Army, Navy, Air, Veterans Medal, (ANAVETS) medal and his Army Cadet Service Medal. MWO Brennan concluded his participation in the national shooting program by participating as a team member on the 2012 Cadet National Rifle Team (NRT) in Bisley, England. On the NRT, MWO Brennan won cadet of the week almost every week, Top Course Cadet, ANAVETS medal and over a dozen shooting medals. He graduated the 2013 Canadian Forces Basic Parachutist course. It is an exceptional achievement to be both a member of the Bisley Team and a Canadian Armed Forces parachutist.

Commanding Officer The award is a striking bronze statue of an He has earned a number of additional medals Army Cadet holding a compass. MWO and awards including: The Silver Duke of Brennans name is engraved on a plate affixed to the statue Edinburgh Award, Excellent Fitness Award, Distinguished which will be kept at the cadet corps for the remainder of the Marksman designation and many individual shooting and training year. He also received an individual pewter orienteering trophies. He was the captain of a highly statuette depicting an Army Cadet standing at attention. successful orienteering team and award winning shooting team. In addition to winning many awards himself, as a In his address to the corps, President McCumber described coach and mentor he was and continues to be instrumental in the requirements of the award and outlined how MWO developing other cadets in these activities. Brennan had exemplified them in his cadet, school, spiritual

and civilian activities. Captain Philip Harris, Commanding officer of the 2379 Burlington Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Cadet Corps ascribed the following attributes to Alexander in his nomination to the committee. MWO Brennan developed in the cadet corps from a basic recruit into the fine young leader he is today. He is an extremely active young citizen, both at school and within the community. Leadership abilities developed within the cadet program have been put to good use outside the cadet corps. Alexander has achieved many awards Brennan.

MWO Brennan continues to participate in volunteer activities in the community, school and church. He has recorded over 250 volunteer hours and has many more to his credit. The Officer-In-Charge cited him for his positive ambassadorial nature during his attendance at the Team Canada Full-Bore Championship in Bisley, England. He has been on the Principals Honour List for six consecutive years. Alexander, who lives in Waterdown enrolled immediately upon attaining his 12th birthday and currently holds the appointment of Drill Sergeant Major at the Burlington Cadet Corps.
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D, McCumber presents the Presidents Trophy to Cadet

2013 NATIONAL EXPEDITION18 ARMY CADETS TRAVEL TO HAIDA GWAII, BC

By Captain Mike Blackwell., SO3 Expedition (Land), RCSU Pacific

Pacific Region had the rain, wind and fog; typical honour and privilege to coastal weather for this time of lead and conduct the 2013 year. The second week however National Expedition for the was anything but normal with Army Cadet program. The clear sunny skies, no wind, or unique and specially fog. There were even a few selected location for this tanned faces! Everyone National Expedition was experienced a very challenging Haida Gwaii in the Queen but vey rewarding Expedition. Charlottes Islands of Many of the cadets stated that British Columbia. The they were very fortunate to Expedition was prepared experience this part of Canada well in advance and was and that they would leave with conducted from August 24 great memories that would last a to September 05 during this The cadets visiting the Pesuta Shipwreck, a log barge who ran lifetime. past Summer. The amazing aground in a storm in 1929. This ultimate adventure met the adventure proved to be a required objectives of Expedition very successful experience training and challenged all of the participating cadets with for all of the eighteen senior Army Cadets and four CIC improving and enhancing their leadership, decisionOfficers from across Canada that participated in this making, problem solving, teamwork and resourcefulness. Expedition. A National Expedition has a prerequisite of at least four Throughout the National Expedition, everyone that years of training, and requires a superior level of fitness participated was provided an opportunity to further and maturity. This Expedition put it all to the test for develop their self-reliance and leadership skills. The each cadet. content of the expedition was to experience and complete Additionally, the Army Cadet League of Canada is very five days of sea kayaking and five days of extreme hiking proud to support National Expeditions. For this particular in separate remote locations. The sea kayaking portion expedition to Haida Gwaii, the Army Cadet League raised provided the cadets an opportunity to observe Moresby funds to help provide additional equipment and various Island and various other cultural sites while paddling cultural activities to assist with ensuring the cadets enjoy throughout historical and very scenic locations in and a rewarding first-class experience. around many of the islands that make up the Haida Gwaii As a final result, the aims of the Expedition Program were archipelago. The hike consisted of a very challenging 89 accomplished during this National Expedition and the km trek along the East Beach Trail in Naikoon Provincial Cadets that participated improved their existing skills Park. The teams were required to navigate over varied while learning many new skills throughout the adventure. terrain and be aware of the local tidal charts. The group Overall, the activity was a very challenging and carried all of the required expedition gear, supplies, tents, rewarding experience that food, and water 18 Army Cadets take part in the 2013 National Expedition to Haida Gwaii. proved to be a significant necessary for each accomplishment. phase of the trip. A Congratulations goes to all few of the amazing of the participating cadets things witnessed by and staff and to all other the group consisted stakeholders that of ancient Haida supported the great villages, totem poles, success of this National ship wrecks, seaExpedition in Pacific lions, black bears and abandoned logging Region. camps from the late 1800s. The weather challenged everyone during the first week,
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A CADETS EXPERIENCE ON THE NATIONAL EXPEDITION

By Cadet MWO Austin Bowles, 2483 PPCLI Army Cadet Corps from Victoria, BC

My name is Austin Bowles, I am a senior cadet with the 2483 PPCLI Army Cadet Corps from Victoria, BC and currently hold the rank of Master Warrant Officer (MWO). After years of training with my cadet corps and plenty of summer courses at the Cadet Bowles practicing his kayaking skills. Cadet Summer Training Centres under my belt, I was one of the 18 cadets chosen to participate in the 2013 National Expedition to Haida Gwaii in BC, which took place in late August to early September. Here is an account of my experience during this grueling but most rewarding experience. At first, the 18 cadets from various parts of the country flew to BC. We spent the first couple of days in Vancouver doing prep work and all the packing required for the trip. We had done a day of kayaking to help those who hadnt kayaked before learn and to help refresh everyone else`s minds. Before we knew it, we were carrying our bags to the airport ready to go. Upon arrival, the cadets and our four officers were split into our two teams and each team went their separate ways. My team, The Salish Warriors, started with the fiveday kayak portion of the trip. One of the biggest challenges on this cycle was competing with the weather, which was often uncooperative. The team only ended up kayaking for about four days out of the scheduled five, due to an unfortunate injury, which sent a teammate home. One of the personal

challenges I faced, was that I was suffering from lower back pain, which started about half way through the trip however I had to push through it to help my team complete this cycle. Our guides were wonderful, very helpful and very funny. We had some good laughs along with some harsh times out on the ocean. On day four, we were able to see an old native village, walk through it, and see old totem poles that have been there since it was built however, they are now covered in moss and have suffered damage from the weather. Once we had finished the kayaking portion of the Expedition, we had a day of rest. Well, sort of, it consisted more of taking showers and viewing Skidgate, a beautiful place filled with nature and wild life. For the next challenge of our trip, my team had to hike for 80 km along the north beach trail in Naikoon Provincial Park. The biggest Trekking along the north beach in Naikoon Provincial challenge we Park. all had on our hike was water or lack thereof. The availability of drinking water along the hike was really limited and on one of the day`s most of us were hiking with little to no water. Another challenge we faced was the terrain, although it does not sound hard, hiking along a beach is very tiring. However, it was such a beautiful sight to be able to wake up and see the sunrise and throughout the day watch it move over us. Overall, the trip was amazing. I would have never thought I would have had the opportunity to go to Haida Gwaii and done these things with such great people. I would love to go back and visit all the places we never got a chance to see and do some more hiking along some of the trails, but no beaches! You can view further information about the expedition to Haida Gwaii on the www.cadets.ca Website.

Cadet Bowles preparing meals during the expedition

Visit the RCAC Expeditions Facebook page to view more photos of this expedition.
Team Salish Warriors
Photo provided by Capt. Blackwell

Photo provided by Cadet Bowles

Team Coat Busters

Photo provided by Cadet Bowles

Photo provided by Cadet Bowles

Photo provided by Cadet Bowles

Photo provided by Cadet Bowles

The Army Cadet Expedition is the premier Army Cadet activity known as the Ultimate Army Cadet Challenge, challenging the best Army Cadets in Canada to push their mental and physical limits. This travel experience provides cadets the opportunity to put into practice the self-reliance, leadership, and spirit of adventure they have learned at their local cadet corps and during their summer training at the Cadet Summer Training Centres (CSTC). It also magnifies their sense of what it is to be a Canadian! The Army Cadet League of Canada and its donors support the Expedition cadets by providing the extras that add to the excitement of the trip. We add to the funds committed by the Department of National Defence with an annual fundraising campaign to provide additional equipment specific to the destinations and the activities of each expedition. This ensures that the cadets have a first class experience and guarantees that the country visited appreciates that, we in Canada support our youth in a meaningful way. We would like to thank all the donors who have generously donated funds over the years, helping to make this an amazing experience for all the cadets. If you wish to donate for future expeditions you may contact our National Office by email at national@armycadetleague.ca or by using our online donation form. Your contributions are appreciated. Thank you.
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THE MAJOR GENERAL HOWARD MEDAL

By Elaine McDermid, National PR Committee member for Alberta

On this important evening, at the Kinsmen Korral in St. Albert. AB, the cadets of the 3069 St. Albert RCACC, formed up as part of their routine training evening for the parade inspection by officers and by the guests invited for this special evening. Mr. Darcy Nilsson led the inspection party and took a few moments to speak with a few cadets as he walked along the ranks. At the start of the evening, the Commanding Officer and staff relinquished their positions for a few moments to introduce Mr. Darcy Nilsson, North West Zone President of the Army Cadet League of Canada (Alberta) who was the first spokesman of the evening. Mr. Nilsson mentioned how glad he was to be a part of this special evening and to get the opportunity to compliment and welcome the new cadets of this corps. He especially made mention of the importance for the cadets to have fun during their time with this corps. After his speech, Mr. Nilsson introduced Mr. Ken Usher, Vice President of the National Army Cadet League representing Alberta who was also present and called to make a special presentation that evening.

huge success and this young man was very pleased to receive this award in recognition of his hard work and dedication to the corps and to the Army Cadet program as a whole. After the presentation, the cadets were dismissed from the parade to resume their regular training schedule. It was such a beautiful and warm October evening that some cadets even carried on their parade practice outside. As a League representative it is always such an honor to be part of these special presentation evenings. It confirms the reasons for our involvement with such an outstanding program for our youth.

Major-General W. A. Howard, CMM, CM, CD, QC, Colonel Commandant Royal Canadian Army Cadets from 1974 to 1979, established an annual award for outstanding army cadets known as "The Major-General W. A. Howard Medal" as a legacy to promote training excellence by senior Army Cadets through a structured assessment of a cadet's overall performance. This award will recognize the cadet in each province and territory who has achieved the highest results in the 4th year Gold training level annually as they prepare to enter into the Year 5 Master Cadet level. Other criteria for this award Mr. Usher mentioned how he was include that the cadet show outstanding Mr. Darcy Nilsson presenting the Howard pleased to represent Brigadier General medal to Cadet Babichuk. leadership skills, excellent conduct, Raymond Romses, provincial President active community involvement and for the Army Cadet League of Canada outstanding personality. More information about this (Alberta), and who is also the Colonel Commandant of award is available on the National Policy Manual the Royal Canadian Army Cadets on this special evening page of the Army Cadet League of Canadas to present an award to the Top Cadet of Alberta. national Website refer to policy 13.4. This prestigious provincial award, which is also known as the Major General Howard award, is given to top cadets from every province. According to the recommendations This years Ontario recipient of the Major General made by the Commanding Officers of the province, the Howard medal is Cadet WO Steven Swanick (pictured Area Cadet Officers (ACOs), and the Army Cadet right) from the 2824 Royal Canadian Army Cadets League representatives, a cadet form this corps, WO Mississauga C.O.P.S. Corps. Babichuk, would get the honor to be presented the medal, pictured here. Dan Matthews, Vice President of the ACLC After the describing the reasons why this outstanding Ontario Branch was on cadet was chosen for this award, the whole corps gave hand to present this medal. WO Babichuk the biggest round of applause! Mr. Nilsson Also in attendance were mentioned how important it was to also acknowledge the Deputy Chief Chris hard the work and dedication of the corps staff. He McCord, Inspector Deb requested that the cadets recognize this by giving them Pincivero and Sergeant another huge round of applause, which was answered Dave Kennedy of the enthusiastically by the whole corps. The evening was a C.O.P.S. program.
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NOVA SCOTIA ARMY CADET EARNS WINGS

By 2ndLt Jake Rideout, Unit Public Affairs Representative, 2444 Kings County RCACC

ALDERSHOT, NS While many local high school students worked at their first job this summer, one jumped from airplanes with a parachute, of course. Cadet Warrant Officer Kirklan Huntley, 17, of 2444 Kings County Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps based at Camp Aldershot, completed the Canadian Cadet WO Kirklan Huntley, 17, , Armys Basic Parachutist proudly displays his parachutist Course this summer at 8 Wing wings at Camp Aldershot. Trenton in Trenton, Ontario. Huntley, a Grade 12 student at Central Kings Rural High School in Cambridge, is the second member of the local Corps to earn his parachute wings in three years. Hopefuls are up against stiff competition for a coveted spot on the course. Candidates are among the top performing Army Cadets from across Canada demonstrating exemplary physical fitness standards, proven leadership at their home Corps, and motivation to take on one of the most demanding courses offered to Army Cadets and members of the Canadian Armed Forces. We all worked very hard, says Huntley. Im very proud to have been selected and to wear my wings. His home Corps has a reputation for excellence, winning

the Lord Strathcona Trophy, awarded to the top Army Cadet Corps in Nova Scotia, in 2011 and 2012. The Cadets progress through a variety of age-appropriate training including specialist courses in fitness and sports, expedition and adventure training, drill and ceremonial, and marksmanship. Advanced training, like the parachutist course, is offered on a national level, as are international exchanges. During the year, Cadets at the unit have the opportunity to learn field craft on field training exercises, take part in familiarization with military members and equipment, play sports, and compete in biathlon and marksmanship competitions regionally and even nationally. Members are given leadership training and placed in leadership positions within their unit with increasing responsibility. Cadets participate in citizenship events and training as well, and can often be seen supporting the Royal Canadian Legion in the community. All training is facilitated and supervised by members of the Canadian Armed Forces who have undergone specialized training to work with youth. The community has a lot to be proud of when it comes to the Cadets in our unit, says Captain Mandy Forbes, Commanding Officer of 2444 Kings County RCACC. These youth are our future leaders, and the skills and knowledge they gain in the Cadet program stay with them throughout their lives. Cadet Huntley shares his experience, see next article.

MY EXPERIENCE AS AN ARMY CADET BASIC PARACHUTIST

By Cadet MWO Kirklan Huntley, 2444 Kings County RCACC

There is no adrenaline rush like the one that comes over you as you take the last step out the door of a CC-130 Hercules Aircraft travelling at over 200kph. As the parachute deploys, you quickly become surrounded by the loudest and most aggressive wind imaginable as your body is tossed around in the air. It only lasts for about four seconds before it changes to a sudden quietness while you weightlessly drift to the ground. It is truly an experience like no other, but getting to the point of jumping out of a plane with the Canadian Forces is a challenging adventure that is not for everyone. In my training for basic para I spent a lot of time running and doing push-ups, but no amount of preparation could

make this an easy summer. To get accepted for this course, in Nova Scotia you had to be one of the top four on the fitness test, and pass the medical test, along with having a 6 week instructor course completed already in your cadet career. The fitness test consisted of running, chin-ups and sit-ups. To get one of the top selection spots you simply had to beat everyone else on the test that applied in the province, surprisingly, that happened to be the easiest part of the course. When I arrived at CFB Trenton, Ontario, I joined the other 48 cadets from all across Canada in a platoon of complete strangers, and faster than we could have
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imagined, our two week tower, where we had to jump pre-course began. It from a building properly became clear to us right while attached to cables to away that this course was simulate jumping from a going to take a lot of hard plane. After the tower, at the work, dedication and the end of the last week before ability to deal with more jump stage, we were tested in stress mentally and all areas of the course, and a physically than most of us final decision was made as to had ever experienced. who went on with the course, Right away in day one the and who did not. Seven of the physical training started, remaining cadets on course we ran for hours, and did werent able to pass every test push-ups in the hundreds. Cadet Huntley, pictured in center, waiting to get on the plane for one of and after 4 weeks of effort, Within the first day, we had the courses jumps with two of his course buddies. they were sent home. For done the fitness test twice. those of us who passed, this Those who could not pass during the second test, after we meant we were going on to J Stage, the week that we were exhausted from the first one and the training inall got to do what we came for. between, failed the course right there and went home. For During jump week we made 5 parachute descents. Twice the remainder of the two weeks, the physical training out of a civilian skydiving plane, and 3 times out of the never slowed down, we were up every day at about 5am CC-130 Hercules. The first time, we had no extra and some days didnt stop until 10pm, each day felt like it equipment, just our parachute, and our reserve chute, was never going to end. Before week 2 was over, 10 of standing in the plane waiting for the command to go, I the guys we came with had either failed, quit, or got sent couldnt think, my heart was pounding and I thought I home for other reasons such as injuries. Most of the would just freeze up and forget everything I learned. My cadets that had gone home by this point were from mind was overwhelmed, but my body knew what to do, Atlantic Canada, only I and one other cadet from Nova just as we had practiced so many times, I naturally did Scotia were still on course out of all of the Atlantic everything the way I was supposed to, and did not Provinces. By the end of the pre-course, we were all hesitate to exit the aircraft. The next three jumps were noticeably toughened and were ready to start the actual with equipment hanging from our waist that we had to Basic Parachutist course at the Advanced Warfare Centre. release before we reached the ground. The greatest part of The parachute instructors, or PIs in Trenton are the jumping out the Hercules was that the rest of the jumpers most hard-core and influential group of people I have were floating down all around you at the same time, ever met. Collectively they seemed to have done it all, which made for an amazing view. The final jump was at and each one of them had a motivational speech for any night, it was cloudy, and fog covered the ground, the only situation. They taught us all we needed to know, thing anyone could see outside was the light on the tower including a lot of discipline, and they did not go easy on where we had to meet up after the landing. Leaving the anyone. We had learned and practiced Aircraft drills, aircraft on the fifth jump means that from that moment on flight procedures, equipment packing and landings every you are officially Airborne, an accomplishment that not day until it was drilled into our heads through muscle many people achieve, and something I will have for the memory. Every single mistake, even the smallest resulted rest of my life. in punishment through push-ups, we found out soon to not screw up. Quick learning is the key for success on this course and those who could not, fell behind and ended up failing the course when the PO testing came along. Our knowledge of aircraft procedures was tested in the mock

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NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS

By Second Lieutenant Bianca Fung, Marksmanship Coach at 105 RCACC, ON

Competitions between Canada and UK cadets have been going on since 1911 when the first Canadian Cadet Team sailed across the ocean to compete in Bisley. Since then the competitions have become a yearly tradition between the two countries. Every year Cadets compete in various Marksmanship competitions at various levels across the country in hopes of qualifying for a spot on the National Rifle Team. Our qualifying Cadets train at the National Cadet Summer Training Centre Connaught, near Ottawa where they also host the cadets from the UK after the Bisley competition for further training and competitions on Canadian soil. 2nd Lieutenant Fung tells us her story about her dreams to compete in Bisley and how it came true, just differently then she had expected. From a young age, we were all told that if we dream big and work hard at it, everything is possible. Little 2nd Lieutenant Fung in position to shoot at a did I know, it Marksmanship competition would take nearly ten years for me to learn the true meaning of 'never giving up'. At the age of 13, I willingly joined the Royal Canadian Army Cadet program. On one of the nights, there was an announcement made for marksmanship team tryouts. This definitely caught my attention and I showed up to the tryout and was called back to continue training. At that time, I had no idea what the marksmanship program entailed, however, I seemed to be good at is, as my officer kept urging me to continue with the sport. We went to many competitions and placed well enough to go to nationals in Valcartier, Quebec my first year as a junior. I shocked myself at how much potential I had! Throughout the year, my officer seemed to train me harder and harder, as he was really determined to get me on to the marksmanship courses during the summer in CSTC Connaught. After completing and topping my Basic Marksman course in 2005, I was invited back the following summer to continue on the road to earning a spot on the Canadian National Rifle Team. It was then, that I realized I wanted to make this a goal. Something I would work my hardest towards. It was a chance for me to represent Canada and shoot in Bisley, England. During the school year, I kept busy with academics and

athletics. However, marksmanship remained a major part of my life. I attained my spot on the Ontario team every year I competed in marksmanship and by the end of my cadet career, I had attained several national titles. As well, a bronze medal at my last nationals in Vancouver, British Columbia. Only 0.01% away from first place in the country. In my last summer fighting for a spot on the National Rifle Team, I had placed 19th. The team consisted of only the top 18. Realizing that I had not made the team was one of the most devastating things I've had to go through in my entire life. Knowing that dream you had worked years and years for, was over, crushed me. Following the summer, I patiently awaited a phone call, in hopes of hearing that someone had dropped out of the team, meaning a spot would open up for me. However, the months went by and there was nothing. I was so upset the entire school year. But one day, I realized that my passion for the sport was not completely gone. I made the decision to go back to CSTC Connaught and staff as a coach. I wanted to keep surrounding myself with the atmosphere of marksmanship, with hopes that one day, I will still get to go to Bisley. I had staffed three summers at the camp until I aged out of the cadet program. Soon after retiring from the program, I decided to join the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC). I fell in love with the cadet program because of all the opportunities it has to offer for Canadian youth. The ability for kids to develop new life skills and making life lasting memories was something I would never forget. By joining the CIC, my goal was to give back as much as I could to the program as it gave me. I was lucky to be given to opportunity to coach fullbore at CSTC Connaught because usually the coaching staff are comprised of past National Rifle Team members. Although it has been years since the devastating announcement that changed my life, it 2nd Lt. Fung at the Bisley Historic Shooting felt good knowing Ground
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that I was still able to coach cadets effectively and as well as the other officers. I had coached fullbore for about two years as an officer at the camp, until one day in May; I was sitting in my room studying and received a phone call. Little did I know, this phone call was about to change my life. An officer from CSTC Officer Fung preparing the rifles for Connaught was calling to competition. inform me that I had been chosen to be a coach for the 2013 Canadian National Rifle Team! I immediately fell silent, as I thought there was no way this could be. Without hesitation, I accepted the position and celebrated alone with tears of happiness. It was then, that I realized, my dream of going to Bisley had come true! With over nine years of hard work and dedication to the sport and the Canadian Cadet program, I felt that my dream as a young girl was finally coming true. The summer of 2013 was one of the best summers of my life. The first night in Bisley meant everything to me. Stepping foot on the shooting grounds and finally seeing Century range for myself and watching a sunset on Stickledown range really set the tone for my tour in England. I coached alongside some amazing staff including Major Kathi Kopan, Captain

Alan Henshaw and CI Nicolas Beaulne. The cadets shot several meetings in Bisley, including the Schools, ISCRM and Imperials. I was fortunate enough to get the experience of shooting the Imperial Meeting as well. Aside from shooting, the team toured places including Portsmouth, Dover, Vimy Ridge, Beaumont Hamel and many more. When our England tour finished, the cadets continued to compete in Canada. Taking part in the National Cadet Fullbore Championship and the DCRA meet. Without a doubt, my first Bisley experience was something I will remember for the rest of my life. Coaching a team overseas and representing Canada was such an amazing feeling. I did not realize that joining the CIC would be this rewarding. Especially knowing that I had worked almost nine years for this dream, I will continue to give back to the cadet program. Prior leaving Bisley, England, I told myself this is something I will do for the rest of my life. I will be back in Bisley. I am not sure when, I am not sure how, but one day, if I continue to work hard and never give up, I will be walking the ranges of Bisley during sunset again.

2Lt Bianca Fung is the Silver Star Level Officer and Marksmanship Coach at 105 7th Toronto Regiment RCA Streetsville Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, in Mississauga, Ontario. 2Lt Fung is a recent graduate of McMaster Univeristy with a B.A. Honours in Geography and is currently working on her second degree to achieve a Bachelors of Education at York University. 2Lt Fung is also the 2012 recipient of the Central Officer Fung receiving her scholarship Region Cadet Instructors Cadre cheque. Citizen Scholarship.

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NEW BOOK BY ARMY CADET LEAGUE DIRECTOR TELLS STORIES OF CANADAS UNDERAGE SOLDIERS
It is an amazing statistic. While the minimum age to join the Canadian armed forces during the First World War was 18and the minimum age to be sent into battle was 19between 15,000 and 20,000 underage youths, the same ages as most members of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets, managed to sign up to fight during that war. Astonishingly, at least two ten-year-olds enrolled in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, but fortunately never made it overseas. But several thirteen- to seventeen-year-olds did succeed in getting overseas and into combat. As we approach the 100th anniversary of the First World War next year, their stories are told in a new book just published by Army Cadet League of Nova Scotia Director Colonel (Retd) John Boileau and his co-author Dan Black, editor of Legion Magazine. Many of these young boys served in the trenches alongside their elders, and fought in all the major battles, including Ypres, the Somme, Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele. Many were injured or suffered psychological wounds. Many died. Old Enough to Fight: Canadas Boy Soldiers in the First World War is the first book to tell their story. The authors combed archives and collections to bring these stories to life. Excerpts from letters the boy soldiers wrote home reveal the range of emotions and experiences they underwent, from the humorous to the unspeakably horrible. Their parents letters touch us with their concern, love, uncertainty and, often, grief. The book is meticulously researched and abundantly illustrated with photographs, paintings and a collection of specially commissioned maps. Old Enough to Fight is Canadian military and social history at its most fascinating.

Old Enough to Fight: Canadas Boy Soldiers in the First World War by John Boileau and Dan Black with Foreword by Romeo Dallaire is published by James Lorimer and Company. It contains 448 pages and sells for $34.95

Were you once an Army Cadet?

Can you attribute your personal or professional success to what you learned from the program? Your stories can inspire todays cadets by providing them examples of teenagers who came before them and persevered in the cadet program and have since, become successful, understanding its not how far you get but how far you go from where you started. If you are one of them and wish to share your story, visit our Websites Success Story page to fill out the online form created for this purpose. You can also read the testimonials of past cadets that have already shared their stories. Note: You may also know someone in your community or a family member who is not currently involved with the program but may attribute their success to the program, please invite them to share their stories too. For questions contact Maxime Corneau at commofficer@armycadetleague.ca
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WORKING TOGETHER - A WIN FOR CADETS AND LEGION

By Karen Murphy Corr, Director Public Affairs for the Sponsoring Committee, 2277 RCACC Submitted by Cathy Bach, Chair of the National PR Committee

When the commanding officer of a new cadet corps in British Columbia was looking for space, she got a lot more than just access to a facility after approaching a local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion over a year ago.

Last June Branch 6 Cloverdale of the Royal Canadian Legion invited the Seaforth Highlanders 2277 and 2812 Corps, the Mariners and the Air Cadets 746 Squadron to host information

Dana, president of our displays at the Sponsoring Committee, Legions open house. and I went to Branch 6 The open house ran Cloverdale of the Royal from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Canadian Legion to let and included them know that we were a photo credit Phil Edge information about the new cadet corps and that a proposed new 2277 RCACC cadets and Capt. Ward with Legion members. lot of our cadets were building for the from the Cloverdale area. Cloverdale Branch as well an impressive display of We were requesting any type of support that they could military equipment from the Canadian Military Education offer - anything from financial to the use of the facility, Centre (CMEC) in Chilliwack. explains Captain Mary Ward, Commanding Officer of the One of the highlights of the event, which was attended by 2277 Seaforth Highlanders, Royal Canadian Army Cadet hundreds of people, was using a 1961 Russian tank from Corps (RCACC) of Langley. the CMEC to flatten three vehicles including a car She says Branch 6 Cloverdale is unbelievably supportive, donated by Capt. Ward. Raffle tickets were sold for two helping not only with use of their space for training, lucky winners to get a seat on the tank for each vehicle marksmanship, the annual Battalion Ortona dinner and crush and cadets helped sweep up debris after each funding to help with activities, but in building a real vehicle was flattened. sense of community. It was fantastic to see the interaction between the Legion We have a close tie with them and the adults quite often members, the cadets and the young children at this event, go for a social evening. They have included us in to the says Capt. Ward. activities and fellowship in a manner that is warm and WO Fraser agrees, The open house last year was welcoming. amazing! We saw and learnt so much. The Legion putting Dana Reid, now past president of the Sponsoring Committee, agrees the benefits from the relationship are photo credit Phil Edge valuable in ways no one anticipated: We work together for the community, for parades and events. The Legion also gives our cadets a chance to work and hear the stories from the Vets, and learn respect for that they did for our country. This intergenerational contact is invaluable to his fellow cadets, says grade 12 student Warrant Officer David Fraser of Langley. It means a lot to speak to the vets. We often dont get the opportunity through school books to learn first-hand what is must have been like for them. Having an insight into their service to this county gives me an appreciation of everything they have done so we can remain free.

Cadets sweep up after tank crush

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on the military displays and giving the public the opportunity to get up close and personal with the vehicles, is something they likely would never see. The cadets are not alone in their appreciation. Frank Redekop is president of Branch 6 Cloverdale and he says he and his members reap the benefits of forging ties with the cadet corps.

Branchs tricycle races, helped with the pancake breakfast at the Cloverdale Rodeo and hosted a pub night fundraiser at the Legion. Not only are the groups helping each other, says Redekop, but their partnership gets both the Legion and the cadets more exposure in the community at large. And thats not all.

The cadets The relationship between the photo credit Phil Edge volunteered with us groups has been a lot of fun. We for poppy sales. have gained new friends; it just They worked so works all the way around, says hard and helped us Redekop enthusiastically, who raise a lot of funds hopes the seeds sown now have a for the poppy long-lasting effect. Eventually the campaign, he cadets will age out. We hope they explains, noting will remember the positive that the Legion experiences they have had with the donates some of Legion and they may become those proceeds back members themselves in future. to the cadet corps. It may not take too long before this The 2277 Seaforth is realized. WO Fraser says he is Highlanders also very grateful for the support the marched on parade veterans and Legion members Cadets with Legion executive member Anne Sharkey and children for the have shown to the cadets of the Remembrance Day 2277 Seaforth Highlanders, helping Ceremony and volunteered at different activities the corps offer more training and opportunities for youth including Legion Week. Many of the parents have paid to serve the community. the $50 annual membership and joined the Legion in the I would like us to carry on the legacy, supporting the last year. It is not unusual now that while cadets are Legion for years to come. I hope we keep telling enjoying an activity in the auditorium their parents are their stories to new generations of cadets. relaxing in the lounge and enjoying an evening out. The 2277 Sponsoring Committee attended the Cloverdale

Looking for a fundraising idea for your corps?

The Vimy Foundation can offer you one : The Cadet Vimy Pin Program The Vimy Foundation is proud to offer Army Cadet Corps across Canada with Vimy pins to help cadets with their own fundraising efforts while promoting awareness about the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The cadet corps will be supplied with any number of Vimy pins they request for $2 each and are only required to pay for the pins once they are sold. The cadets sell the pins for $5 each from which they dedicate $3 to their own special projects and fundraising efforts. If they are unable to sell all of the pins they order, they can simply return the balance to the foundation. For more information about the Cadet Pin Program contact The Vimy Foundation at (514)-904-1007 or by e-mail at info@vimyfoundation.ca .

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AN OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETTIME OUTWARD BOUND SCOTLAND EXCHANGE

By: MWO Ryon Gazey 57 SD&G Highlanders RCACC VKH ON

Outward Bound Scotland 2013-As we all stepped into the registration area, we were all shaking full of eagerness and excitement. As we spent the first couple of days at Connaught, we spent our time getting to know each other, making sure our personal and issued kit was completely ready for our travels. Meeting cadets from all over the country was just so amazing to experience, you learn a lot of things and get to share and hear stories that could be from Vancouver all the way to Nova Scotiait socially gives experience to learn about other cadet regions and how theyre doing. What was really going on in our heads at the time was Am I really going to Scotland? I cant believe I was accepted! and there is always doubts to a positive Can I pass the fitness test? That was the biggest concern, but we all pulled through and passed which was a relief for a lot of us. The big day was here, we boarded an Air Canada flight and we were on our way to London Heathrow. For some plane, rides werent really exciting, but for others it was our first time which made it very exciting. As we arrived at London Heathrow the three exchanges split off; since we were in London, M.L.E. Cadets left the airport while O.B.S. and O.B.W. Cadets waited for their next departures. After our plane ride from London to Edinburgh and a long, but exciting bus ride through Scotland, we arrived at Barry Budden Combined Cadet Force Central Camp. Once we got off the coach bus, we were introduced to our adult staff from the 51st Scottish Brigade, we got issued the required equipment that well need during the week, and then we were shown our sleeping quarters. I was expecting to stay in quarters relatively the same as we have here in Canada, but even better we got to stay in really nice, heated buildings. Training day; we dug ourselves straight into weapons training and safety, the weapon we were using was the SA80 Assault Riflethe weapon instructors were quite surprised in how mature we acted during the training and our ability to pick up on the skills and techniques and know them by heart with in just a couple of days. According to the instructors, it takes at least a year or two for a CCF Cadet to be able to handle the weapon safely, correctly and pass the weapons test, looks like our marksmanship training really does pay off. Throughout the week we were split off into our sections and did various activities and training such as; section attacks, survival skills, rope work, archery, command leadership

tasks, live firing, first aid, field craft exercises, recce patrols, and obstacle courses. At the end of the week, we participated in the Barry Budden Skill-At-Arms Competition 2013 and we went against many different cadet schools. The competition involved activities such as knots and lashings, marksmanship, archery, first aid, timed obstacle course, tug of war, and command leadership tasks. The Canadians (as they call us) didnt exactly get close to gold, but we definitely showed them what were made of. My favourite part about the competition was designing our attack plan and performing first aid because for obvious reasons Operation: Flaming Maple received top points in its attack plan and first aid was quite the experience because they actually tested us in a real life situation with fake blood everywhere which ultimately tested our skills even though they were actors. That ended our week and it was time for a good-bye to our newfound friends and we boarded a coach bus and we were on our way to Dingwall to start our adventure training. We arrived at the Seaforth Highlanders camp in Dingwall and we were split off into our three adventure groups that were already pre-chosen by the cadet during their initial interviews. The three adventurous activities were rockclimbing, sea kayaking, and inland kayaking. I was in the inland kayaking group in which my group got to kayak through all of the Scottish rivers and Lochs. Every adventurous day would start with us waking up, cleaning our barracks, and getting ourselves ready for the days activities. We then ate breakfast together and then split off and depart to our destinations for the day. Each group has a full day of plan activities and we all meet up at dinner back at the base. We all then get to share our amazing stories of the day and socialize. After dinner, we usually have a lecture period with the instructors that usually takes about an hour, but its nothing close to being a simple lecture, we have lots of fun and it can be really inspiring. Once the lectures were over we then had free time to do what we wanted (provided that, we obeyed by the rules and behaved during the day) like spending time in the Shops picking out trinkets or socializing in the caf. During the middle of the week, the instructors decided to surprise us with a trip to Fort George and day of shopping and touring in Inverness, which was really appreciated. I cannot say for the other adventure groups, but I do know from the many great stories I heard that the rock climbing group got to climb amazing rocks and cliffs in the Scottish Highlands. For the sea kayakers they got to
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paddle around the Scottish shores, bays and travel to some mini islands.

before we left to the airport to catch a flight to London. The cadets that wanted to see a With the next week of Scottish sunrise got training approaching up very early in the we had our final mess morning and we dinner all suited up to left with one of our make it classy for officers and tour congratulating cadets guide staff, we for passing their drove way out to adventure training and King Arthurs appreciating their Seatit wasnt that instructors. We made easy though. We our farewell the next had to hike our way day and headed for Back Row: Shawn Meekins, Jordan Prato, Chris Bore, Dylan Leach-Trudeau, Jonathan Clark, all the way up to the Nesscliffe Army Cadet Peirce Leibel, Ryon Gazey, Abigael Bouffard, Etienne Gareau, Genevieve Bilodeau. actual monument, Force Training Camp Front Row: Captain Natalie Dionne-St. Vincent, Matthew Roberts, Jesse Johnson, Alex which is said to be in Shrewsbury. This Young, Vivian Zhou, Krystine Caron, Nathalie Denis, Donovan Blauvelt, Jasmine Fletcher, one of the best training week typically Matthew Doris, Jermaine Jeffrey, Captain Al Stewart views of Scotland. involved the same As the sun hit the horizon looking East through the North activities previously from the first week, but now we Sea, I must say it was one of the most beautiful things I already qualified and trained to their standards so we just have ever seen. Im on top of that mountain with the had review lessons to recap anything that may have been world at my fingertips as Im reflecting upon my missed. Our sleeping quarters were not as nice as it was in experiences in Scotland knowing that Im going to miss Barry Budden, but it was still very interesting and cool it. staying in barracks that were built during World War II. We went straight out on to field training exercise the next day and it incorporated section attacks, survival skills, recce patrols, and command leadership tasks. Although weve already previously done this during the first week, we got to experience how the Army Cadet Force operates compared to the Cadet Combined Force and gave us a great chance to socialize with more cadets, make new friends, and learn about their culture. Our fourth week was one of the highlights of the summer, as it was our cultural week; we made our way all over Scotland, visiting many different tourist attractions and historical sites. We visited places such as Stirling Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Scone Palace, the National Museum of Scotland, the Maritime Museum, R.S.S. Discovery, the Museum of Flight, the Falkirk Wheel, Scotlands Secret Bunker, Real Marys King Close, the birthplace of Sir. John A. Macdonald and the Wallace Monumentthats only a fraction of the places we went to. We were given a lot of time to spend shopping and exploring the city of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness in groups of four. That week in particular let us experience the Highland traditions, trying out the food, learning Gaelic, experiencing different customs, terms, and ways things are done compared to Canada. I have honestly never learned so much about culture and history in my life on this exchange, the things you learn cannot be compared to anything you would learn in school, simply because you have to live it, not read it. It was the last day in Scotland We then traveled to the airport and went on our flight to London as it is our final week in the United Kingdom. We arrive in London and travel to another military base to meet up with the Wales and England Exchanges. At our visit in London, all exchange cadets once again united since the beginning, we headed to Greenwich (0 longitude) the national maritime museum and made a visit to the Queens house. We than headed to the London Eye to get an amazing Arial view of London, but we didnt drive there, we took a ferry ride across the River Thames to the London Eye. Once we got off the eye, we once again had time to ourselves to explore and socialize. The next day we went to the White Cliffs of Dover and toured Dover castle and its city, which was nice. The next day included a visit to the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Must have been one of the biggest line-ups I have ever seen just to see the Crown Jewels, it was about an hour and a half wait. Once we finished touring Buckingham Palace we then had an entire day to explore the city of London in groups which they let us plan our own day with a schedule which is very surprising that our officers privileged us with their trust. It was our full last day in Europe; this was a very important and special day. We traveled to France via Euro Tunnel, which was quite unbelievable to experience. We first traveled to the Vimy Ridge Memorial, it was honestly very emotional for others and me because you are right on a memorial site where Canadian family
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members fought or where many died. I felt very honoured to be representing my country overseas and paying my respects to the fallen Canadian Soldiers of the Great War. We received a guided tour of the reconstructed trenches and how it was like for soldiers to live in. After our tour of Vimy Ridge, we traveled to Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial to again, pay our respects to the fallen. As I say repeatedly every year at the eleventh day of the eleventh month, We will remember them. We spent a little time in Calais just to do a little bit of independent cultural learning and shopping, and then we voyaged back to the White Cliffs via Ferry through the English Channel. Homeward bound it was for us the next day, a summer well spent. A couple of days later it was

graduation day, the feeling of excitement to see your family, accomplishment, and achieving ones full potential. We all miss being back in the United Kingdom, but we were all glad to be back home. I have made extraordinary and amazing friends from all over the Country this summer that I will never forget. While on my exchange, I experienced things that have affected my life a lot and the people around me truly inspired me and gave me memories that will last a lifetime. I would like to thank my exchange officers and peers throughout the summer for making the summer unforgettable and the memories long lasting.

BRANDON ARMY CADET TAKES ON THE NORTHERN CHALLENGE IN WHITEHORSE, YK

By Cadet Eric Bolech of Brandons 2520 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps 71 Battery

As friends and family wondered what to do this summer, Eric Bolech of Brandons 2520 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps 71 Battery, took to the great waters and wilderness of the Yukon, in the beautiful landscape of Whitehorses Cadet Summer Training Center (CSTC). Bolech spent his summer with 60 other army cadets from across Canada, including 12 cadets from the United Kingdom, in the Expedition Instructor Course. Throughout July and August over 200 army cadets converged into the Whitehorse CSTC to train in the various courses; General Army Training, Basic Expedition, Basic Marksmanship and the Expedition Instructor Course. Throughout the Expedition Instructor Course cadets learn a lot about each other, about themselves, and how to be effective leaders and instructors for their home cadet corps. This six week long course included activities such as hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and first-aid training which was practiced on their eighteen day expedition in the Yukon. During the 18-Day Expedition, the cadets mountain-biked close to 200 km and hiked approximately 40 km on the spectacular mountain trails surrounding Whitehorse. The final leg of Bolechs expedition was canoeing four days down the Takhini River, starting at the Kusawa Lake Campground southwest of Whitehorse. Our instructors let us hang out on the beach to watch for the northern lights the night before we were to canoe down the river, Bolech said. And we were looking up and seeing the stars and we fell asleep on the beach in our sleeping bags. I would never have thought a year ago I would be doing this, sleeping on the beach in the Yukon, in a military sleeping bag! The seventeen year old summarized how it felt returning back to camp, The pride, excitement, relief,

disappointment, happiness, and joy of marching back into Whitehorse Cadet Summer Training Center after just finishing our 18 Day Expedition and having the whole camp cheer you back in and applauding and congratulating you, and then having other course members and platoon members jump all over on you with excitement for not seeing you for 18 days! Every summer the Whitehorse CSTC offers a unique wilderness experience to over 200 cadets from across Canada, being the only cadet camp located North of 60. A small number of positions are available to cadets from the prairie and eastern provinces as this training centre caters primarily to cadets from the northern regions of Canada. Summer training is an enhanced opportunity that allows cadets to build self-confidence, and learn new skills and abilities, says WCSTC Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Kiecker. This prepares them for their future, and to assume leadership roles at their home cadet corps. Those cadets who are chosen to train at Whitehorse Cadet Summer Training Centre truly have a unique opportunity to develop these necessary skills in an incredible location. All WCSTC training courses implement various exciting outdoor activities for youth to enjoy the wonders, beauty and adventure of the Yukon! Over a dozen army cadets from the Brandon/Shilo corps attended summer camps across western Canada this summer from general Army training to music courses, such as bagpipes and drums, to Drill and Marching, to Expedition Leadership training, all under the full sponsorship of the Department of National Defence. To see more of Eric and his fellow cadets at Whitehorse Cadet Summer Training Centre go to our photo gallery: www.whitehorsecadet.smugmug.com.
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SEAFORTH CADET CORPS EXCHANGE WITH SCOTLAND CADETS

By Major Rob Thompson, ACICO, PAC Region, Submitted by Cathy Bach, Chair, National PR Committee

Scotland cadets and Seaforth Highlkanders FTX Exchange group in chilliwak - just under 300 participants

For close to 20 years, the six affiliated corps of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada in southern BC have hosted a Biennial exchange with Lanarkshire and Glasgow Army cadet force battalion. This exchange program if privately funded by the six Seaforth Cadet sponsoring committees who work in concert with one another in fund raising, hosting and the Canadian Cadet Selection process that is undertaken every two years. Generally the program involves up to 18 sr. cadets and 6 officers from both sides who are selected based on merit, participation in the local cadet program, notable achievements in their careers with the organization and support and participation in the inbound hosting of the other countries cadets.

Night at the PNE, Thanksgiving dinners, a hosted Dance and social evening and a number of other interesting and fun activities. As well the cadets visit a number of the six Seaforth units on a parade night and participate in a weekend Field training exercise in the Chilliwack area to get a firsthand taste of the outdoors in BC. The cadets also take in a local Hockey Game. The Canadian cadets chosen to travel to Scotland go the following March during the regular school spring break. While in Scotland the Canadian cadets travel throughout the highlands to see among other things Edinburgh Castle and city, Fort George, Urquhart castle, Loch Ness, Glasgow Transportation museum, people museum, Hamilton House and grounds, Wallace Monument, and more as well as participating in a weekend exercise with their Scottish hosts. The six Seaforth corps use the trip as an incentive for their Sr. Cadets to stay in the program, reward their hard work and augment the benefits of the program by having yet another goal for cadets to achieve in their cadet career.

The Scottish cadets chosen travel to Canada in October and have the chance to see the many cultural attractions that are located in Southern BC and the lower mainland including Grouse mountain, Capliano Suspension bridge, Stanley park, Vancouver Aquarium, Britannia Mines, Shannon Falls, Vancouver City Police Museum, Surrey Pre Trial Center, Vancouver Cadets while touring the cultural attractions in Vancouver, BC Coast Guard, Fright

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YOUNG LEADERS IN ACTION!

By: Jasmine Ouellette, Director, Communications and Special Events , Encounters with Canada

field of interest. Thirteen careerEncounters with Canada (EWC) oriented themes are available to is Canadas largest and foremost choose from: Arts & Culture, national youth forum. For 31 years, Canada Remembers, Ecology & EWC has been offering exceptional Environment, Experience Canadian youth programming, with Canada, International Affairs, more than 95,000 young people Journalism & Communications, having lived this once-in-a-lifetime Law, Medicine & Health, experience since 1982. It is a Politics in Canada, RCMP, program of Historica Canada, The EWC facility on Terry Fox Drive in Ottawa. Science & Technology, Sports formerly the Historica-Dominion & Fitness, and Vimy: Canadas Institute, Canadas largest Coming of Age. The weekly themes bring like-minded teens independent organization dedicated to Canadian history, together to share and broaden their vision of potential career identity and citizenship. options and life interests through hands-on, interactive Held at the Terry Fox Canadian Youth Centre in Ottawa, presentations, workshops and visits; meetings with Ontario, Encounters with Canada is a one-week youth professionals and specialists, also provide unique citizenship and leadership program for teens aged 14 to 17 perspectives on particular careers. Increasing participants years, offered over twenty-six weeks, from September to knowledge and understanding of Canadian history, culture, December and late January to May. It is a fully bilingual heritage and political institutions also underlies all theme program, operating in both of Canadas official languages. weeks. In particular, ones, such as Canada Remembers and Vimy: Canada's Coming of Age, are rich in participatory Each year, some 3,200 teenagers, annually, travel from activities and visits to historic sites guaranteed to spark the across the land to meet in Ottawa. They form a mini-Canada interest of students from across the country, particularly representation, with students from every province and those involved in the army cadet program! territory participating. These teens share a week of experiential learning activities, which promote youth Canada Remembers leadership, citizenship, and knowledge and pride in Canadas Offered in collaboration with Veterans Affairs Canada, history, culture and institutions, as well as assisting them in Canada Remembers week is always a touching and making more informed career choices. memorable week for participants. Young Canadians are A week of unique experiences A lifetime of memories offered this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about the Participants are at the forefront as they embark on the significance of Remembrance Day and hear first-hand discovery of the richness of the Canadian experience! They accounts of the crucial role that Canadian men and women enjoy a VIP tour of Parliament, take a bus tour of their played in the development of their country and the national capital, visit world-renowned museums, attend preservation of their freedoms. They attend the cultural events in the Ottawa Remembrance Day Ceremonies area ... No detail is spared to ensure held at the War Memorial, and participants experience their visit the Canadian War Museum. country in a fun and educational Participants will also take part in way. a wartime meal, similar to that served to troops during World Our country Our story War II, in the company of many Encounters with Canada is proud to dignitaries. A true tradition, this be partnered with many prestigious meal consists of pea soup, meat organizations to offer workshops loaf, bread pudding and Coke that excite and stimulate Canadian Bottle Bread! But the real magic teens - youth engagement, official takes place when participants sit languages, peace, Canadian The EWC groupCanada Remembers week pictured at the with Canadian veterans and Heritage Minutes, and the Canadian War Memorial (CWM) in Ottawa the week of the engage in conversation. Charlottetown Accord that led to the National Remembrance day Parade in 2012. birth of our nation. Workshops linked with Canada Something for everyone! During their week at Encounters, participants have the opportunity to explore various career paths related to their Remembers week include the making of Izzy dolls, the researching of archival materials, a wartime kites workshop and Remembrance Slam poetry. Participants also receive a guided tour of Ottawa, which includes a number of touching
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and powerful War memorials.

Kimberly Ibasco, Surrey, British Columbia This week was an amazing experience for me. Im sure that Participant Taylor Hope of Orangeville, everyone says that, but it was truly Ontario wrote of her Encounters unforgettable. Never did I imagine that experience: Thank you for the amazing I would get this amazing opportunity. week! I had an incredible time! The The entire time, I was pinching myself memorial service was a great experience, because everything was just so surreal. and was one of my favorite parts of the I gained so much knowledge just by trip! I also enjoyed going to the War being here. I experienced countless The EWC group during the Canada Remembers firsts during this week like the first time week pictured at the Canadian Peace Keepers Museum, the Museum of Civilization and the National Archives of Canada! Doing travelling without my parents, the first Monument on Sussex Drive in Ottawa. the research on the soldier made this all time being away from home for a week, very real for me and it's an experience I'll never forget. I met the first time spending my birthday away from friends and fabulous people this week and when I look back, I can't family, and many others. Meeting the veterans was another believe all the different experiences we shared. I know I've unforgettable experience and I am more enlightened now on made many friends that I'll keep in touch with for a long Canadas history time. The Vimy Week at EWC, I'm sure is going to be Vimy: Canada's Coming of Age something I'll remember forever. Presented in collaboration with the Vimy Foundation, this EWC An affordable experience theme focuses on Canadas participation in the First World Encounters with Canada affords high school students the War. Participants learn about the legacy of Vimy and are opportunity to participate in an extraordinary adventure. To challenged to take up the torch of remembrance, so that the be eligible, they must meet the following criteria: memory of those who served and sacrificed will never fade. During a week filled with memorable activities, participants take an in-depth look at Canadas role in the Great War, with seminars and debates on the Canadian Corps, the capture of Vimy Ridge, Canadas 100 Days, the conscription crisis, the home front, Canadas new identity following WWI and the legacy of Vimy. The jam-packed Vimy week may include such activities as a tour of Parliament Hill, an archival research of WWI soldiers, and special tours of both the Canadian War Museum and the Diefenbunker. The culmination of this event-filled week is the participants attendance at the very moving National Ceremony of Remembrance End of an Era on Vimy Ridge Day, at the National War Memorial. As an added bonus, by taking part in the Vimy week, participants also become eligible for the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize, offering the opportunity to win a trip to England, France and Belgium. Each year, the Vimy foundation chooses one participant from Encounters, who will take part in this incredible experience. The prize honours the memory of Lord Beaverbrook, William Maxwell Aitken, born in Maple, Ontario in 1879, a Canadian entrepreneur extraordinaire and influential cabinet minister in two war-time governments during World War I and II. The prize also pays tribute

to Canadian forces, that against all odds, captured the seemingly impregnable Vimy Ridge from the Germans in April 1917. More importantly, this victory is seen as a turning point in the history of Canada.

Be 14-17 years of age when they take part; Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada; Be enrolled in an educational institution recognized by the Ministry of Education in their province/territory; Obtain an authorization from their parents/guardians; Obtain a recommendation from their school.

Registration fees remain at $675 per participant for the fourth consecutive year. This includes lodging, all meals, most planned activities and local transportation. Thanks to Exchanges Canada, a program of the Department of Canadian Heritage, transportation costs (plane, train, bus) are free from anywhere in Canada! A Legacy of Excellence A Symbol of Hope The Encounters with Canada program fosters a strong belief in Canadian youth and the future of our country. Several generations of teens have participated, developing a base of engaged youth leaders, ensuring Canadas future is in good hands. We are extremely proud of our legacy, and we continue to look towards the future with great enthusiasm! To learn more about Encounters with Canada, visit www.ewc-rdc.ca or call 1-800-361-0419.
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This young Cadet who took part in the Vimy: Canadas Coming of Age theme week with EWC is in uniform to join the hundreds of cadets from the National Capital Region who are participating in the National Army Cadet Vimy Commemoration Event at the CWM.

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A TEAM OF MANY HANDS ACCOMPLISHES MUCH

By 2nd Lieutenant Betty Froese Public Affairs Officer Whitehorse Cadet Summer Training Centre

It wasnt the words of actors Brad Pitt or Anthony Quinn that stirred a 43-year old Gord Cousins to join the Cadet program, but those of Lieutenant Colonel Lynn Moffat on the filming set of the movie, Legends of the Fall. Colonel Moffat was then the Commanding Officer of the Calgary Highlanders, Calgarys Reserve Infantry Unit, Active Reserves, Cousins says. He was out seeing how his soldiers were doing on the movie sight as there were over 80 of them seeded throughout the formations in the Assault Sequences of the film. The Academy Award winning movie was released in 1994 and was filmed in the wilds and wonders of Alberta depicting a family of young boys and how history, war, love and nature affected each of them; so befitting for Gord as it opened the door to the adventures of the Cadet program and his passion for the outdoors. It was a chance meeting with the Colonel, says Cousins. And his casual suggestion to help out with the Cadets, that inspired me to join the Calgary Cadet Corps as a Training Officer. Cousins joined as a Volunteer Instructor and Civilian Supply Officer for two years with the Highlanders before joining the Cadet Instructor Cadre in 1997. However, this was not his first time at the recruiting office of the Canadian Forces. In 1965, a 15 year old Gord enlisted in Alpha Coy, the Lorne Scots, (Peel Dufferin & Halton) in Oakville, Ontario. The Primary Reserve was very rewarding and soon Cousins was parading with Bravo Company as well, volunteering for extra training that was being implemented for an intervention Force with the United Nations in Vietnam. From Rifleman, to the Heavy Weapons Platoon to Anti-Tank Platoon, the cross-training for Gord was extremely interesting and plans were made to take an additional Grade 12 course for entry into the Royal Military College Saint-Jean located in Richelieu, Quebec. However, Cousins was seriously wounded by an IED device after a weekend Training Scheme in May of 1968, thus ending his active career as a Reservist. It wasnt until 26 years later that his involvement with the Canadian Military became a part of Gords life once again. Cousins has served in various capacities with numerous corps in the Calgary area. By the year 2000 he was promoted to Captain and appointed Commanding Officer at 2137 Calgary Highlanders RCACC, a corps his two sons then belonged to. He was also DCO at 1955 RCACC Calgary, and became involved in the formation of the 3125 Chestermere Calgary Highlanders RCACC, becoming its CO in 2007. He then transferred to the Calgary Expedition Centre as a Canoe Instructor and Logistics Officer, lending his services in Public Affairs for the Unit. Captain Cousins served a total of 10 summers at the Cadet Summer Training Centres in Vernon, BC and Whitehorse, Yukon as Platoon Commander, Watermanship Instructor, Canoe Trip Leader, and Cadet Instructor Program Coordinator with civilian

guides and instructors. Cousins originated the Pioneer Platoon Training course at 2137 RCACC that was adopted into Vernons CSTC Course selection and was a sought-after course for many years. Initiating the Pioneer Platoon at Vernon for the whole battalion was one of the most satisfying accomplishments that I undertook, Cousins says. This was an extension of an optional program that I initiated at 2137 as a Training Officer. It was endorsed by Detachment and later Regional Headquarters support made it possible to teach hundreds of cadets the skills of vectoring, 21 Knots and Lashings, Bridging, Assault Boat Training, Improvised Watercraft, Seal Team training with snorkeling and other such simulations. Captain Cousins was also instrumental in the development of the Solo Survivor Optional Program for the Green and Red Star Cadet levels, usually conducted in February or March. This exercise is another Right of Passage where cadets are given flint and steel, 3 single serving sugar bags, three OXO cubes, a tin can, a metre of snare wire, 2 small cotton balls, a whistle or radio, and a small notebook and pencil. With these items cadets would be left alone in the bush from Saturday morning till noon the next day while journaling their experience and conducting learned Survival and Signal Fire Rescue techniques, Cousins explained. The success of this Solo Survivor exercise was that new cadets spoke of this at school, raising the enrollment to the Cadet Corps and improving retention. This was a great recruiting tool. Among his accomplishments, Gord has held positions in various community organizations including Development Board Member for Rosebud School of the Arts, Heritage Christian School, Valleyview Childrens Homes and Juno Beach Academy of Canadian Studies. He was awarded the Alberta Centennial Medal for Services to the Community of Calgary and Alberta in 2005. For Cousins, it has been over 50 years of canoeing the Canadian River Systems; 22 of those years honing those and other skills in adventure training in the Canadian forces. His passion for the Cadet Program and for the cadets themselves has impacted all who have been with him on course, at summer camp, in expedition training and at each of his home corps. Many a cadet and fellow Officer will remember the gentle voice and strong teaching and leadership given to them in the man of Captain Cousins. On August 10, at the Whitehorse CSTC, Cousins celebrated his 65th birthday, reaching the Compulsory Age of Retirement. A Team of Many Hands Accomplishes Much! is his favourite motto. On behalf of your Canadian Forces team, Cadets Canada and all who have served beside you, we thank you for dedicating your time and effort, for sharing your infectious passion and for leading and mentoring us throughout these years of dedicated service. Bravo Zulu Captain Cousins!
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A REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY IN WHITECOURT

By Elaine McDermid, National PR Committee representative for Alberta

As Whitecourt Legion members, we are invited to go to each school in our town to attend their Remembrance Day services. I attended the local Hilltop High School in Whitecourt for the first time. This is what I witnessed:

Welcome to our school! a smiling teacher said. What a nice welcome! Students were The playing of last post was a already gathered in one stirring reminder why were A group of students who went to Vimy, France in 2011 presented the corner in preparation for a we all there. Legion members a hand stitched flag. presentation. In another We then had the two minutes corner, local Cadets, both Air of silence. Not one sniffle, cough, sneeze, rustle, or Cadets and Army Cadets were getting organized to be the whispering during that time, the one time at any ceremony color party and the cenotaph guard; then, students from the when everyone was completely quiet for the full two whole school gathered quietly for the service. minutes. What an extraordinary feat with so many people in Once everyone found their place, each event on the program attendance! Students in this school were respectful of was introduced by another teacher. It all started at 10:30 everything that this service represented! a.m. The singing of O Canada was rousing inside a gym Reveille was just as beautiful! with echoing walls. The bare walls of the gym made the cenotaph stand out even more starkly. The Cenotaph guard One Legion member and a student laid a wreath each. arrivesd and settled in their positions. The Color party then The color party then marched off; the cenotaph guard was marched down the centre, barking the orders, but in perfect released from duty. The students and teachers dispersed time. quietly out of the The master of ceremonies introduced the singers two room, still overcome young ladies with beautiful voices sang about a soldier by their emotions and writing letters home. remaining thoughtful after the service. Next a power point presentation was presented to depict all stations in life during war time, photos of soldiers from all As a member of the sections, nurses, women in the forces, life at home, children Army Cadet League of and wives greeting their soldiers upon their arrival home. Canada and a Legion The presentation instilled a remembrance theme to all of us member, I am very present. They even had the four RCMP members from proud of all the Mayerthorpe on the presentation. It was stunningly students who beautiful, the students and Legion members in awe. participated, witnessed and who were part of The twenty-two students who had the opportunity to go to history by touring Vimy last year, presented the Legion members with a hand Vimy then relaying the stitched flag of history to the other A Legion member and a student each laid their visit to students in their school. a wreath while cadets stand guard. Vimy, France. Their teacher We have a chance to and supervisor have great leaders in the future, and they will lead in their was extremely own way! proud of them Thank you to the adults - teachers not only in the school she relayed a staff, but teachers by respecting the students who are in turn story about how respectful of our country, the people in it, and the they all had to generations who go before us. stand in pouring rain for 11 hours Congratulations to the students, teachers and staff Two young ladies with beautiful voices sang at Vimy waiting members of Hilltop High School, Whitecourt Alberta! about a soldier writing letters home.

for the ceremonies to start. Not one of them complained! These students presented the quilt with great respect. It was an honour for us to receive this gift, it brought tears to our eyes. Some of the students from the group have since moved on to secondary schools all across the country.

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PEI CADET EXPERIENCES REMEMBRANCE DAY IN OTTAWA

By Mr. Barry Gerus, Father of Cadet Gerus, PEI Last summer, Stuart Gerus, the son of Barry and Vera Gerus, expressed an interest in joining the army cadets which is based in the Summerside and Kensington areas. He had a great time learning the basics and attending an outdoor camping trip in the fall. He was told that the cadets play an active role in the Remembrance Day ceremonies in PEI and was greatly looking forward to the experience. Unfortunately, he would miss the opportunity because we needed to travel to Ottawa at the same time and therefore we would not be in PEI for Remembrance Day. instantly to excitement. It really was an honour as only a few cadets were selected to do so. On Remembrance Day in Ottawa, we drove Cadet Gerus to the National Military Cemetery. He was taken aside along with other cadets where he was given a briefing of his duties for the day. It was cold and rainyvery cold. It was a miserable day. We quickly forgot about the cold, when we watched with pride as Cadet Gerus marched and presented the Veterans memorial wreath to Lieutenant General Devlin, Canadas highest ranking military officer.

When the official ceremonies ended, Cadet Gerus was approached by a reporter from the CTV National news who asked for an interview. He took it all in stride. He appeared calm as he described to the reporter what Remembrance Day meant to him. To ease his disappointment Cadet Gerus places a flag on a tomb at the cemetery. Friends and family saw him on the we contacted Captain Tracy national news that night, looking cold Enman of the 1231 Kensington Royal Canadian Army but speaking eloquently for all cadets across Canada Cadets Corps, and explained the situation. We asked if about why he was there. there was a way Cadet Stuart Gerus could participate in It was really awesome to be here and honour all of the the Remembrance Day activities with a troop in veterans who died in the war, said Cadet Stuart Gerus. Ottawasince we were going to be there at the time. You would think that Cadet Gerus' experience up until We were delighted when Capt Enman responded that it then would be the highlight of his day. However, the most would it be possible. She had forwarded our request to memorable was yet to occur. After Cadet Gerus was League Volunteer Robert Gill, a friend and colleague in interviewed, he was approached by Robert Gill. Robert Ottawa. He in turn contacted Lieutenant Commander had located the grave of Canadian veteran, Trooper Brian Roland Vaillancourt, the NCR Cadet Coordinator, to Richard Good who had recently died in Afghanistan. We arrange for Cadet Gerus to participate in the discovered that Trooper Brian Good, 42, had been killed Remembrance Day ceremonies. Jan. 7, 2009 when a bomb exploded near an armoured About a week before we were set to leave, we got a vehicle he was riding in. He was married and has two phone call from Robert Gill, informing us that Cadet teenage daughters. Gerus had a choice of participating in the Remembrance Cadet Gerus stood beside the grave and laid a Canadian Day ceremony at the National War Memorial or the Flag. He then proudly saluted and honoured the fallen National Military Ceremony. After some discussion it soldier. It was a very emotional moment. It instantly was decided that Cadet Gerus could attend the ceremony struck us all this was the grave of a fallen Veteran who at the National Military Cemetery. While Cadet Gerus had a family and life, and that he had lost it while was still disappointed that he wouldnt be attending the representing Canada. Remembrance Day will forever ceremonies with his 1231 Kensington cadet corps in PEI, have a deeper meaning for all of us after this experience. he was pleased that he would still be involved, albeit in When we tried to thank all those involved with Cadets Ottawa. who had made this such a memorable trip, Robert When he was told that he had been selected to present a simply said It is always a pleasure to help out a wreath during the ceremony, his disappointment turned cadet.
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A CADET PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE FALLEN IN FLANDERS FIELD

By Cadet Kaleb Perry, 2444 RCACC, Aldershot, Nova Scotia

As I stood amidst the rows and rows of marble gravestones that warm day in August in the heart of Flanders, I couldnt help but think to myself; Is this real? My name is Kaleb Perry, I am currently a Warrant Officer with the 2444 RCACC in Aldershot, Nova Scotia, this past summer after completing 4 weeks of instruction as a staff cadet at Argonaught ACSTC I participated in a pilgrimage to the battlefields of north-west Europe as part of a national scholarship program and this is my story. It all started in October of 2012, it was a typical night of training at my home corps, and I was chatting with my fellow NCMs when my CO asked to speak with me. She informed me that an essay competition with the possibility of a trip to Ottawa was going on amongst all the cadet corps/squadrons across the Atlantic Provinces and she asked if I would be interested in writing one. I took this as a challenge to test my writing skills and my ability to apply what Id been learning in school with persuasive essays. I wrote a piece on why the battle of Vimy Ridge was important to our country and how it has affected us to this day. I submitted it the following training night and so started my wait. I returned to cadets every night hoping for news until finally in March 2013, my answer came; I was one of six Nova Scotians selected to attend the Vimy: Canadas coming of age week at Encounters with Canada in Ottawa. It was one of the greatest moments of my life, but little did I know, it wasnt going to stop here. In April 2013, I flew to Ottawa with three fellow cadets of all three branches and arrived at the Terry Fox Center where the EWC program is held. There we spent an amazing week full of fun, excitement, and a time that would change my life forever. As the name of the week implies, it focused on commemorating the battle of Vimy Ridge which is highly regarded by Canadians as our countrys coming of age when Canada forged herself as a country as opposed to a colony. We were informed while we were there that a group known as The Vimy

Foundation was putting this week on and that they were hosting their own essay competition during that week for a chance for one of us to win a scholarship which, as it turns out entitled a two week trip to visit the battlefields of Europe. Being a dream of mine since I was very young to visit the battlefields of Canadas soldiers from the first and second World Wars, I answered the call in a sense. The essay was very similar to the one I wrote through cadets and using my newfound sense of the importance of Vimy Ridge to Canada, I wrote my essay and was one of almost fifty entries to be selected for an interview. I had been used to interviews, yet another skill I learned as a public speaker in school and in cadets. There were six of us interviewed and at the end of the week at the closing dinner; it was I who was selected as the 2013 Beaverbrook Vimy Prize Scholar from EWC. It was a feeling one would only have to experience to actually understand I flew back home feeling very proud and so began a four month wait until my trip would be a reality. After finishing the school year, I made the trip to CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick and attended camp at Argonaught ACSTC as a staff cadet. I couldnt have had a better time, at least that was, until my trip. I left camp early, leaving behind many friends, and many fond memories only to make more of each three days later. After a long wait, and a short flight to Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Id met up with perhaps the most amazing young people Canada has ever produced. They came from across our country, from Montreal, to Calgary, Saskatoon, Vancouver, and Toronto and for a small town guy like me, I fondly became known as the guy from middle-of-nowhere Nova Scotia. The next two weeks from August 7th to the 21st would be the most life-changing, eye-opening and most humbling experiences of my life. We would see things most young people here in Canada have never seen and we were very proud to be representing our country on an international level. We arrived in London and we stayed at a boarding school called Harrow School. It was a school attended by
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Winston Churchill and Lord Byron and was our headquarters while in London. We did many great things in London but the highlights of our four days there included a stop at Buckingham palace, a tour of Winston Churchills underground bunkers, attending a musical and going to Oxford University where we participated in exclusive one-on-one lectures with history professors in a college that is not admitted to the public! We also visited places where Canadian soldiers were known to visit during both World Wars and we paid our respects at the various war monuments. We soon departed for the Western Front or, what once was. We arrived in the French city of Calais and boarded a tour bus that would take us across North-West Europe and our destination was Belgium, in particular Flanders. The first stops we made in mainland Europe were not to cities or towns, but to cemeteries and thats when we saw our first commonwealth graves and as we entered Belgium, we saw our first Canadian war graves. It was a shocking experience and took us all by surprise. We all had different reactions to the immensity of loss and at some points during the tour, even the toughest of us had a hard time fighting back the tears. We spent the next few days touring the Ypres salient and visiting the major Canadian battlefields of Belgium. We collected shrapnel from a farmers field and at the end of it; we counted almost 60 ball bearings from British shells in one field alone. We attended the Last post ceremony at the Menin Gate and of all the members of my group, they felt that the cadet (being myself) should lay the wreath on behalf of the Vimy Foundation but more importantly, on behalf of Canada, and that was one of the proudest moments of my life, I dont think my heels came apart the whole time I held the giant wreath laden with fresh flowers, I stood at attention and I remember staring to my front I was going to show everyone including the Belgian people in the crowds that Canada and her younger generation have not forgotten. We moved through Belgium and we were sad to leave, and then we entered France. We toured along many of the battlefields including the Somme and the Artois, and to this day I will remember seeing the Vimy monument in the distance as we approached it, growing larger and more magnificent as we drew nearer. We toured the trenches and underground tunnels following in the footsteps of the Canadians I wrote about only months before and to think I stood where they stood, it was proud moment in my life and I can still picture it in full detail at this very moment. We held a medal ceremony in which we were granted on behalf of the Vimy Foundation our pilgrimage medals similar to those issued to Canadian veterans in the 1930s when they made their own pilgrimage trips back to Vimy. We continued through France and visited many great places and saw many great things, some highlights of the

trip for me were, the beaches of Normandy (Juno, Gold and Omaha), the memorial to the Canadian soldiers slain at lAbbaye dArdenne, visiting Dieppe and participating in the 71st anniversary of the raid and of course touring Paris. However, the most rewarding and most humbling experience was to create and present the biography of a Canadian soldier killed during the First World War and give his story at his grave. It is proudly called the Bringing the Boys Home initiative and I chose a Corporal from Nova Scotias 85th Battalion as my soldier. His name was Frederick Abbott and his first military engagement was assaulting Vimy Ridge. He also fought at Passchendaele where he was promoted to Corporal for his leadership and near Amiens where he won the Military Medal for bravery. He was killed when German planes dropped bombs on the train station he was in and he died almost a month before the war ended. I was proud to have not only been selected for this scholarship, but also to stand where they stood, walk where they once walked, see where they once fought and to tell their stories and ensure that phrases like Lest We Forget and We will remember them do have meaning. I know that I will never forget and, in the words of poet Laurence Binyon: They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Sgt Kaleb Perry, 2444 RCACC, was awarded the Beaverbrook Prize by the Vimy Foundation, at Encounters with Canada. Presenting the award are Mr. Houghton, Mr. Alexandris and Stella from the Vimy Foundation.

See more information in the next article about the awards The Vimy Foundation offers. Cadets are eligible and are invited to apply.
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THE VIMY FOUNDATION AN OPORTUNITY FOR CADETS

By Nicholas Alexandris, Executive Director of The Vimy Foundation

In 2006, The Vimy Foundation was formed with the mandate to preserve and promote Canadas First World War legacy as symbolized by the victory at Vimy Ridge in April 1917. Since then the Foundation has produced high quality education resources for thousands of teachers and schools across Canada and been involved in more than 10,000 student pilgrimages to Vimy and designed and distributed more than 100,000 unique Vimy pins. Here are a few of our education programmes that have appealed to army cadets in the past: The Vimy Pilgrimage Award In recognition of young people who demonstrate outstanding service, positive contributions, notable deeds, bravery or leadership, the Vimy Foundation has created the Vimy Pilgrimage Award. Exceptional Canadian youth who have served their peers, schools, communities, province or country are eligible. The Award consists of a fully funded, week-long educational program in Europe to study Canadas tremendous First World War effort. Scheduled in early April during Vimy week, the program will include classroom education and daily field trips to significant WWI sites Applications must be submitted from September 10 to November 11. The submission deadline for the Vimy Pilgrimage Award is midnight, November 11th. The Beaverbrook Vimy Prize The Vimy Foundations premiere program, the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize, offers a prestigious summer
Photo courtesy of The Vimy Foundation

scholarship to youth 15 17 years of age to study the interwoven history of Canada, France, and Great Britain during the Great Wars. During the two week scholarship program, prize winners will visit key historical sites in Britain, Belgium, and France where they will be introduced to ideas and viewpoints not typically taught in classrooms. Highlights include visits to major museums, battle and grave sites, lectures, as well as meeting veterans and members of the French Resistance.

Photo courtesy of The Vimy Foundation

Submission criterion and application forms can be accessed on the Vimy Foundation website from November 11 to February 1. Students are asked to submit a 1,500 word essay or project on a selected topic. The submission deadline for the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize is midnight, February 1st. Vimy-Real Vimy REAL is a fun interactive multimedia experience that immerses students in the Battle of Vimy Ridge and allows them to navigate through the battle field while learning interesting details about the war and the men who fought there. Students can access Vimy REAL anywhere and explore the Battle of Vimy Ridge through four different lenses: the People, Tactics, Technology, and the Canadian Legacy left by the triumphant battle. With a few simple clicks teachers can illustrate how the Canadian military successfully took the ridge through intelligence and ingenuity, and pivotal role they played in the allied victory during World War One. For more information about any of our programs go to www. Vimyfoundation.ca or write to us at info@vimyfoundaiton.ca.

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A CADETS EXPERIENCE AT CAMP ARGONAUT

By Cpl Archibald, Mackenzie, 2928 Truro Royal Canadian Army Cadets

I joined cadets last year after wanting to join for quite a few years but only got around to it after moving to Bible Hill. After a lot of bugging by my parents, I joined the 2928 Truro Royal Canadian Army Cadets. I like how cadets have so much Canadian history involved and still is modern, also for me cadets has more interesting skills and discipline to learn than most other groups. At Camp Argonaut I had many great experiences and I have many new stories. I enjoyed learning new fitness techniques and the daily sports games and activities. My platoon Warrants and Sergeants built in lots of fun activities and games. The meals were great and I made some friends from all

over, those Newfoundlanders have quite the way with words. Sometimes it was quite challenging to get up on the cold 6 am mornings but the awesome breakfasts (bacon) and morning parades always got me up and at it. The Sundays off and the dances were great but the best part about them was the chance to spend time with friends like on my free time I would go to the canteen and hang out with my friends from my platoon and some others from my home Corps At Camp this year I learned many new skills, like how to create a work out routine and the positions needed for sports from the players to linesmen, I also learned lots of new drill movements. It was my first time marching with so many other cadets and the band was amazing! I cant wait to return to camp next summer for my 6 week Sports and fitness Instructors Course, hopefully someday I will be staff and help someone else have as good a time as I did plus learn how to someday be a leader, after all was done the pay was a great bonus to it all! :-)

Found our more about the Army Cadet Summer training opportunities at www.cadets.ca
A BC CADET AT RMC
By Greg Chan, Commanding Officer, 2893 Seaforth RCACC , Port Coquitlam BC

Former RSM and Cadet Chief Warrant Officer Jasper Kim, of 2893 Seaforth RCACC in Port Coquitlam BC is now pursuing studies at the Royal Military College of Canada. He is training to be an Infantry Officer and is set to graduate in 2017. During his time as an Army Cadet he completed the Basic Marksmanship course, Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor course, was employed as a staff cadet in Vernon, participated

in a Cadet exchange to Scotland, and successfully completed his Basic Parachutists course. Jasper. Former Cadet Kim is a fine example of how far you can go in Cadets and how well the program sets up the youth of Canada for future success.

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CREEMORE CADETS WIN CHALLENGE AGAINST ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE

By Capt. William Banks, Commanding Officer 1944 EME RCACC

The 1944 EME Army Cadet Corps hosted the first annual Cadet Community Challenge involving the Huronia West OPP (Ontario Provincial Police), Clearview Fire Department and the Canadian Army - CFSEME (The Canadian Forces School of Electrical Mechanical Engineers). The cadets challenged the OPP to an air rifle competition and won. By winning this event the cadets won a tour of OPP Headquarters in Orillia. A tug of war competition was also launched in which the cadets ended up victorious again over a mixed team of police, fire and army volunteers. The Clearview Fire Department added the final touch of the day by competing in numerous water ball challenges. The cadets were also invited to the Stayner Fire hall for a tour and a class in the proper use of fire extinguishers. The day was a complete success with these amazing

young people interacting with Cadet Shooting Competition cadets challenged the fabulous OPP to an air rifle competition and won. community partners. The cadets truly showed pride in themselves and their corps which allowed the people that support them witness what great citizens they are all becoming. Everyone enjoyed the glorious weather, community spirit and all went home tired, happy and soaked to the skin. The cadet corps wishes to thank the Huronia West OPP, the Clearview Fire Department, the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 397 Creemore, the Creemore and District Recreational Centre and the public for supporting the 1944 EME Army Cadet Corp.

The cadets enjoy a waterfight

The cadets win the tug-of-war against a team of police, firefighters and military volunteers.

THE WORLD WIDE WEB A TOOL TO ENHANCE COMMUNICATION

By Capt. Nathan James, Public Affairs - Web Content Officer (DCdts)

The world has changed dramatically since the days when I wore a cadet uniform. Now, having spent 13 years as a member of the Cadet Instructors Cadre, I find that even I have trouble at times in keeping up with the trends that not only help us connect with our peers, partners and headquarters, but also with the Cadets themselves. To many, the Web is simple: go out and register a domain name or URL, hire a web developer and have them put together a world class Website! This certainly is the case when putting together a Website for a private organization. However, Cadets as a federally funded youth program must adhere to a number of policies and standards for Web communications set out by the Government of Canada. These polices and standards are not meant to be a burden or

to restrict us from doing what we do best, but have been put in place in order to make our Web content more accessible, organized,easy to use and consume for everyone. At the centre of these policies are the Web Standards for the Government of Canada, located at http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/ ws-nw/. These standards cover a number of both technical and content related policies and guidelines. Two in particular that have had a dramatic effect on the way we present content online: Standard on Web Accessibility based on internationally accepted guidelines set out by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), these guidelines define how content must be presented in order to be accessible not only to modern Web browsers, but also to assistive technologies
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such as screen readers. They also set standards for the use of colours, contrast and decorative text and imagery in Web content in order to ensure that users with disabilities are able to easily view and use our Websites. Standard on Web Usability Part technical, part content, these policies define the look, feel and presentation of content in order to present a more standard and consistent feel to all content delivered by the Government of Canada. At its centre are user centred design principles, which call for designers to base design and architecture decisions on their audiences and the tasks that they undertake when visiting our Websites. In particular it calls for external Websites to cater exclusively to external audiences. These standards, combined with more familiar standards such as the application of the Official Languages Act, helped to shape our current set of Web communications tools. Introducing our new Web tools! Having outlined the different policies that affect the Web world; we found that the old one Website fits all audiences mentality is neither usable, manageable or sustainable. In fact, prior to 2011, the Canadian Cadet Organizations counted over 25 000 individual online assets. This count included files, Web pages, images and multimedia. Today, we have three different tools in order to meet the needs of audiences that are interested or already participating in the Canadian Cadet Organizations. Our Public Web Site, www.cadets.ca! Previously, this site was the single point of entry for everything to do with the Canadian Cadet Organizations. Today, Cadets.ca has been refined and reorganized in order to meet the needs of Canadians who are not yet involved in the Cadet Program, but may be interested in joining or recommending it to someone they know. In essence, were talking about users who are considered our external audience. It concentrates on outlining what the program is, its components and activities, as well as, how to join! Youll notice there is an absence of regional pages, or pages to do with individual elements within our organization. This is because Cadets.ca is a collaborative effort, combining the great stories about Cadets from across the country, and across all three programs to paint a picture of what Cadets do and the opportunities available to them nationally and internationally. The Controlled Access Solution The Extranet For many organizations, the term internal and external audience is often defined as employees and the general public. However, this is not the case for the Canadian Cadet Organizations. Many users who we would consider internal are in fact not employees. They are adult volunteers, members of the Air Cadet, Army Cadet and Navy Leagues and most importantly, Cadets themselves. In order to ensure these valuable members are able to access and use information, we needed a solution that separates public content from internal content. And that solution is the

Extranet. The Extranet is a username and password controlled site located at https://portal.cadets.gc.ca. It is accessible from any internet connected computer using either CCO Net credentials, or a user created username and password. The Extranet contains the CCO File Repository, which is a library of files with both a national and regional perspective. It also contains a new feature, the CANCDTGENs. Modeled after Canadian Forces General Orders (CANFORGENs) this collection of orders are directed policy from either the Director Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers, Director General Reserves and Cadets or Chief Reserves and Cadets. Also included is a mini-site on Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Renewal initiatives and activities. The Fully Controlled and Secure Solution The Intranet The Intranet is located on the Canadian Cadet Organizations own network, the CCO Net, alongside the Fortress application. The CCO Net is only available to members of the Canadian Cadet Organizations who hold an enhanced reliability security clearance or higher, and is reserved mainly for members of the Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service (COATS) to store information that may have a security status of protected A or below. It can be accessed either by a CCO Net computer (either directly connected or by use of a virtual private network, or VPN connection) or by a home computer running Windows using the Internet Explorer browser. The Intranet is currently in development, but does host some important content such as the IM/IT Service Desk pages and the FORTRESS resource site. In addition, some Regional Cadet Support Units also have a limited presence here to post information to assist Cadet Corps and Squadron staff in the execution of their duties. The Future Now that the location and purpose for each of these content locations has been defined, they will continue to develop, mature and grow. Each year, content within them will be reviewed to ensure the information is in the correct location, up to date and is proven useful. In addition we intend to add more content, such as converting Cadet Administrative and Training Orders (CATOs) from portable document format (PDF) into easily readable Web pages. We also plan to improve the usability of each system, such as adding breadcrumb navigation to the File Repository and making the Extranet easier to navigate and use. But, we do need your help. If you see something you believe should be improved, please send us an email at cadet-info@forces.gc.ca .

Last but not least, we encourage you to tell us your stories! Help us to break that mould by taking pictures and writing articles and sharing them with our league partners or with your regional Public Affairs Officers. We want to hear from you!
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We hope you have enjoyed this issue of On-Target. The Army Cadet League of Canada, is very thankful for your contributions to this newsletter. We hope that you will enjoy reading the stories written by cadets, CIC officers League members, volunteers and parents from all over the country. The intent of this publication is to share the experiences, the ideas and opportunity the Army Cadet League of Canada and the Army Cadet program can offer. We welcome you to write us your story to share in future issues of this publication. Please send them to : commsofficer@armycadetleague.ca. This publication is also available on line at www.armycadetleague.ca. and offered in both official languages. If you wish to receive a French copy contact the National Office of the Army Cadet League of Canada at commsofficer@armycadetleague.ca. The next issue is scheduled to be published in the Spring. We hope to hear from you. Thank you, The Editor