Spit-polished shoes and pressed shirts aren’t the only things impressive about 754 Phoenix Squadron Air Cadets. The Port Moody organization also celebrates its 50th anniversary this weekend.
Started in 1965, Phoenix is a leadership and training program taught by Canadian Forces reservists who are members of the Cadet Instructors Cadre. Cadets learn to work in teams with students of different ages, and follow their interests, from public speaking to leadership to robotics and music to aviation, to name a few.
True, discipline, physical fitness, hard work, good grooming and weekly drills are part of the deal. But the young cadets say the expectations laid down by the Canadian Forces teaches them about themselves.
“It really pushes cadets to go beyond what they think they can do,” said Tina Lee, 18, a warrant officer second class.
“It’s being part of a bigger community, not just being by yourself playing video games,” said Jared Chiu, 17, who holds the same rank.
Participation also leads to scholarships, awards and credit towards graduation.
FCpl. Cole Kennedy, 15, is heading off this summer to a six-week advanced aviation technology course in aircraft maintenance in Ontario while FCpl. Aditya Goshalia,14, just won a regional public speaking contest.
Chiu, 17, earned his pilot’s licence last summer and can fly small, four-seater Cessna planes while Lee is off to lead a summer camp for cadets this summer.
None of this surprises CO Jen Adams, who has been with the squadron for seven years and said the cadets are often high achievers.
She’s also excited about the growth of the cadet corps, which is splitting into two groups, saying, “It’s a real honour to start a new squadron in the Tri-Cities.”
A special ceremony will be held this weekend to mark the 50th anniversary. For more about Phoenix 754, visit www.754aircadets.ca.
