Year-end review honours achievements of Prince Edward cadet squadron
Sue Capon | Jun 05, 2019 | Comments 0
The year’s accomplishments by cadets with 851 Prince Edward Squadron were celebrated Sunday during the 42nd annual ceremonial review.
“You have taken the first of many steps that will lead you to a very rewarding future,” said Captain Penny Irish, Reviewing Officer, who grew up in Prince Edward County. “During your time at cadets, take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way… Reach out and reap the benefits… of the finest youth organization in the world.”
Irish noted she was particularly pleased to review the cadets, and to see awards and medals presented honouring achievements.
Of special note, cadet Aaron Wiik received the highest award that can be bestowed on a cadet and in doing so, was the second recipient in the squadron’s history to receive the Lord Strathcona Medal for exemplary performance in physical and military training.
“This was the result of a file review covering his entire six-year cadet career,” said Adam Kidd, the squadron’s commanding officer. “We nominated WO1 Wiik on the grounds of his non-stop academic excellence, community service, school leadership and general physical fitness training scores. He is also the first cadet in the squadron to achieve the rank of Warrant Officer First Class, since 2013.”
Rachael Cooper, now an RN and an officer cadet at 851, was the first recipient of the medal in 2011.
Wiik also received a Picton Elks Lodge bursary, shared with Warrant Officer 2nd Class Carey Evans. Both also received retiring cadets gifts from Kidd, along with Warrant Officer 2nd Class Sydney Creasy. The three were also presented their Air Cadet Service Medals and Bars from Janelle Bucci, Air Cadet League of Canada Ontario Provincial Committee Representative, and Director for 851 Squadron.
Corporal Payton Blakely-Haennel, who received the Training Officer’s Award and the Founders Award for Team Leadership, led a demonstration of drill work for the dignitaries, award presenters, families and friends in attendance.
Blakely-Haennel also shared a recent speech she wrote about self-esteem.
“Self-esteem is more than how we feel about ourselves,” she said. “It affects our jobs, our relationships and day-to-day lives… and can be affected by the obvious contributing factors such as popularity, criticism and bullying, but also by smaller things including acne, clutter and social media.
She offered suggestions to boost self-esteem, and to make a day better – including forgiving a friend, sibling or yourself; learning to accept compliments, and finding a supportive group of friends and “surround yourself with people who make you feel good.”
Commanding Officer Kidd said he felt good about the cadets, their achievements over the past year and Sunday’s review.
“The cadets did a great job today and should be so proud of themselves,” said Kidd who also thanked parents, staff, and supporters of the squadron.
Click here for more about the 851 Prince Edward Royal Candian Air Cadet Squadron.
Filed Under: cheers • Featured Articles • Local News
About the Author: