Air Cadet program is still going strong

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/11/2019 (2406 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Royal Canadian Air Cadet Program was started in 1941, to help train young men whose skills would be needed in the Second World War.

Today the Air Cadets has approximately 23,000 members across 453 squadrons. The 191 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron is one of eight Winnipeg squadrons and was founded on Nov. 11, 1942.

The Cadets program is the largest federally funded youth program. The program and uniforms are free for youths ages 12 to 18. Extra costs are covered by fundraising.

The current goal of the Cadet program is to develop community leaders and good citizens and there is no obligation to join the Canadian Forces. The 191 Squadron meets Tuesday evenings during the School Year at Anavets Unit 283, 3584 Portage Ave.

The meetings include two parades and group discussions on various topics. Every spring, the squadron holds a ceremonial review  for parents and invited guests, at which cadets are presented with  activity awards.

Cadets can take part in many different activities. The 191 Squadron has a special interest in biathlon, a Winter Olympics sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Former 191 cadet Nicholas Pasieczka has won two bronze medals. In provincial competitions and was the squadron’s top biathlete in 2015 and 2017. Currently, 191 Squadron has 13 cadets competing in zone competitions. The squadron also boasts an excellent band program, with practices held every Sunday.

Every cadet must take part in survival exercises twice a year, and effective speaking classes are held on Sunday evenings.

The 191 Squadron also takes an active role in Remembrance Day ceremonies and activities. This year, teams of cadets went out on Oct. 26  to  help the Charleswood Legion sell poppies at various Charleswood and Tuxedo locations.

Cadets program summer camps vary in length from two to seven weeks and focus on various topics, including music, leadership, sports, drill, survival and aviation  Exchange trips to countries such as the United Kingdom, Singapore and France are also available.

Cadets are also eligible for various post-secondary scholarships for education.  For more information about 191 Squadron, call 204-998-1917 or 191air@cadets.gc.ca

Fred Morris is a community correspondent for St. James. Reach him at fredmorris@hotmail.com