Strathmore cadets host marksmanship activity

By Captain Frances Ogilvie Public Affairs Officer, Regional Cadet Support Unit

Cadet Flight Sergeant Brett Young and Cadet Warrant Officer Second Class Joscelin Burgos provided coaching to fellow cadets during a marksmanship activity conducted by 903 Strathmore, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (RCACS) at the Strathmore Ag Grounds on Jan. 18.

Cadet Flight Sergeant Coutu, a fourth-year cadet, shared his passion for marksmanship.

“I really like doing this because it’s not something my family does. It’s unique and something I would only get to do because of cadets,” said Coutu. “I joined cadets because my parents recommended it and I thought it would be an interesting opportunity to learn some new skills. I live in a really small town of 150 people, so this is a fun way to meet other teens.”

Captain Robbie Nauffts, Commanding Officer of 903 RCACS, described how the squadron offers registered cadets a very dynamic and engaging marksmanship program. 

“It’s a big part of what we do,” said Nauffts. “The cadets really enjoy marksmanship because it gives them a chance to work with each other to develop their skills. It also allows them to build on leadership and coaching skills they have attained by developing new cadets.”

903 RCACS has many exciting activities planned for the spring, including the squadron’s 25th Anniversary celebration that will include a formal dinner and the attendance of squadron alumni, familiarization flying in a glider, and a formal cooking class.

“Familiarization flying is always a big hit because the cadets go up in small planes, like the Cessna 172 Skyhawk and fly around the Rocky Mountain Foothills,” said Nauffts. 

The Air Cadet Program provides many youths with their first experience in a plane and annual chances to experience gliding.

Coutu shared that local youth who are considering joining the Cadet Program should join because “it’s a great opportunity to make new friends, socialize, and have fun.” Coutu elaborated that the overnight activities “are the most fun. I really enjoy camping and being outdoors.”

The Cadet Program is open to all youth between the ages of 12 to 18 and provides them opportunities to develop skills that will last a lifetime, including teamwork and communication. 903 RCACS offers local youth training opportunities on Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. at the Strathmore Ag Grounds. Youth who are interested in joining the Cadet Program can do so by visiting Join the Cadet Program (Canada.ca).

“The squadron is currently looking for additional adult staff to enroll as Cadet Instructor Cadre officers. We also gladly accept volunteers who just want to help to ensure the program continues to be a success in Strathmore,” said Nauffts. “It is a very rewarding experience to see these young people achieve their goals.”

Becoming part of the Cadet Program as an adult leader is a choice to serve both your country and your local community. It is easier than you may think and is filled with rewarding opportunities to gain new skills valued not only within the Canadian Armed Forces, but within your existing workplace. No previous military or cadet experience is required. Adults looking to get involved are encouraged to email Nauffts (903air@cadets.gc.ca).