Prince Edward Junior Air Cadets Take to the Skies Ahead of 46th Annual Review
Date: May 10, 2023
Members of the 851 Prince Edward Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron received an unexpected and unforgettable experience on Sunday when a routine parade practice turned into an introductory glider flight over Prince Edward County.
A previously postponed flying opportunity was revived, allowing a dozen junior cadets to soar above the County in gliders, many for the very first time.
“This was an exciting chance for our younger cadets to experience aviation firsthand,” said Capt. (Ret’d) Thomas Foulds, an instructor with the squadron. “Every participant thoroughly enjoyed the flight, and it reinforced what the air cadet program is all about.”
Learning Beyond the Ground
Foulds explained that the Air Cadet Program offers hands-on exposure to a wide range of aviation-related skills, including air traffic control, airport operations, and aircraft mechanics and instrumentation.
“Cadets are given opportunities to fly both powered aircraft and gliders,” he said. “Senior cadets can also apply for summer training programs that qualify them as glider or power pilots, equivalent to earning a private pilot’s licence.”
Celebrating Achievements at the Annual Review
Later that afternoon, the squadron assembled at its home base at Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area for the 46th Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR), an event recognizing the accomplishments and dedication of its cadets.
This year’s parade held special significance, as Prince Edward County Mayor Steve Ferguson served as the Reviewing Officer.
Mayor Ferguson praised the long-standing community support that has sustained the squadron for nearly five decades, noting the program’s lasting impact on local youth.
He also highlighted the achievements of retiring Warrant Officers Greg Talbot and Payton Blakely-Haennel, both of whom excelled in national-level cadet courses.
Awards and Scholarships Presented
Several cadets were recognized for outstanding performance, including recipients of the 415 Wing RCAF Association Air Rifle Marksmanship Award:
WO2 Kalika Young – Top Senior Shooter
LAC Josephine Lewis – Top Junior Shooter
Four $500 post-secondary scholarships were awarded to cadets continuing their education:
WO2 Payton Blakely-Haennel
WO2 Montanah York
WO2 Shelby Swackhammer
FSgt Chloe Galway
The Rotary Club Citizenship Award was presented to FCpl Bradley Stever, acknowledging exemplary leadership and community involvement.
Looking Ahead to a Busy Summer
With the ceremonial review complete, the cadets are preparing for an active summer. Fifteen cadets will take part in programs across Canada, serving as staff members and instructors at cadet training centres.
Newer cadets will also have the opportunity to attend one- or two-week daytime programs to be held at CFB Trenton, continuing their journey in the Air Cadet program.
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