L-R: Captain Stefn Dodman, Deputy Mayor Kraymer Barnstable, and Warrant Officer First Class Kiyanna Tam at an 80th birthday celebration on Nov. 3, 2024. (Supplied)

By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

24 Red Deer Squadron

Red Deer’s air cadets program celebrates 80th birthday

Nov 4, 2024 | 12:16 PM

A city of Red Deer proclamation to declare Nov. 3-8, 2024 as Royal Canadian Air Cadet Week is giving the local squadron a spotlight to share their work with the public.

Local air cadets, who are members of 24 Red Deer Squadron, are also celebrating the organization’s 80th birthday this week.

Fahd Mohamed, Warrant Officer Second Class, said the milestone highlights the squadron’s longtime involvement in events like Remembrance Day ceremonies, environmental initiatives and more, as well as their focus on fitness, and skill development.

“Recognizing air cadets not only validates the hard work and dedication of the cadets themselves, but also highlights the positive role the organization plays in youth development. This recognition reinforces the value of similar programs in communities, inspiring pride among cadets and staff, and increasing public awareness,” said Mohamed.

“By celebrating their achievements, we encourage more youth to join and more families to support the program.”

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As an air cadet, members are challenged to reach their full potential by way of participating in activities related to aviation and aerospace, air crew survival, aviation history, and the principles of flight.

There’s also no prerequisite to be super fit or super smart; it’s not about being a jock, but rather having an interest in the cadet movement. As well, while there is a positive working relationship with the Canadian Armed Forces, cadets is an entirely separate entity from that.

“The cadet program offers cadets opportunities to develop skills and knowledge that enable them to positively contribute as leaders in Canadian society, instill a lifelong appreciation of health and fitness, and support successful transitions to adulthood,” added Capt. Stefn Dodman, Commanding Officer.

Dodman says they’re always seeking guest speakers with aviation technical training or career experience to speak with the squadron on Tuesdays at their home, the Cormack Armoury (4402 55 St.).

From 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday evening is also when families with interest in joining can come and check out the weekly parading and learn more about the Air Cadets program.

Flight Sergeant Fareda Mohamed explained that the air cadets program can open many doors, including scholarships for post-secondary education, particularly in aviation, engineering and sciences.

“Through cadets, we also develop much needed skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork which are valuable in both academic settings, and future careers,” she said.

“We also have opportunities for ground school, which could potentially lead to an aviation-related career. Cadets also get to participate in a lot of activities with a lot of professionals which leads to connections that can open doors for internships or job opportunities.”

24 Red Deer Squadron is currently 100 members strong, plus 10 staff, and a parents committee that takes care of fundraising.

Around central Alberta, there are also Air Cadets programs in Olds, Penhold, Ponoka, Wetaskiwin, Drayton Valley and Stettler

The full mayoral proclamation can be read at reddeer.ca, and for more about Air Cadets, visit cadets.ca.

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