Last weekend, 24 dedicated air cadets from Trail travelled to Vernon, joining 200 sea, army, and air cadets from across the East and West Kootenays and the Thompson regions of B.C. for a weekend full of exciting and challenging activities.
Over the course of the weekend, the cadets engaged in advanced leadership training, sharpened their marksmanship skills, tackled a confidence course, and experienced the exhilaration of abseiling.
One of the highlights of the trip was a guided tour of a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from the RCAF 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron, based in Comox.
Trail’s air cadet squadron meets every Wednesday evening at the Kemball Armoury, located at 1900 7th Ave., from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with additional activities scheduled on select weekends.
New cadets between the ages of 12 and 18 are welcome to join.
To register as a cadet, visit registration.cadets.gc.ca.
Adults interested in volunteering with the squadron are encouraged to get involved as well.
For more information, reach out via email at 531air@cadets.gc.ca.
The 531 City of Trail Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Cadets, was established in 1951.
The cadet program offers youth challenging experiences, friendships, and adventure. Throughout the year, cadets have opportunities to fly in both powered aircraft and gliders and to engage in various outdoor activities.
What is abseiling?
Abseiling, also known as rappelling, is the controlled descent down a steep surface, such as a cliff or rock face, using a rope.
Commonly used in climbing, mountaineering, and rescue operations, it allows a safe descent when navigating challenging terrain.
The person lowers themselves by feeding the rope through a harness or device, controlling their speed with hand pressure.
It’s a skill that builds confidence, balance, and trust in equipment and technique, making it a popular choice for adventure training among groups like cadets.
About cadets
The Cadet Program, which includes Sea, Army, and Air Cadets, is Canada’s largest government-funded youth initiative, with over 60,000 participants nationwide.
Open to youth aged 12-18, the program offers an opportunity to learn about the Canadian Forces, develop leadership skills, cultivate good citizenship, and promote physical fitness.
Although military-based, the program does not obligate participants to join the Canadian Armed Forces upon completion.
