Overview
The aim of the Cadet Program is to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership; promote physical fitness; and stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land, and air activities of the Canadian Forces; however, each focuses on its own parent element. The Air Cadet motto is "To learn. To serve. To advance.", and was created by Robert Myles Colwell in 1966 when he was a cadet with 625 Squadron in Perth-Andover, New Brunswick.
Our squadron is led by a diverse team of both military and civilian experts who work to facilitate a safe, fun and engaging program while prioritizing cadets leading cadets. Mentorship is at the core of what we do, and our team brings a varied set of skills and experiences to the table.
Persons aged 12 to 18 may join the Air Cadet Program. The organization and rank system of the Royal Canadian Air Force is used with the exceptions of flight corporal – equivalent to master corporal in the Army Cadet Program or master sea cadet in the Sea Cadet Program; flight sergeant - equivalent to warrant officer in the Army Cadet Program and petty officer 1st class in the Sea Cadet Program; warrant officer 2nd class - equivalent to master warrant officer in the Army Cadet Program and chief petty officer 2nd class in the Sea Cadet Program; and warrant officer 1st class - equivalent to chief warrant officer in the Army Cadet Program and chief petty officer 1st class in the Sea Cadet Program.
Cadets are not members of the Canadian Forces, and there is no expectation of a future military career. Adult leadership is provided by members of the Canadian Forces Reserve subcomponent Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service composed mostly of officers of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC), supplemented, if necessary, by contracted civilian instructors, authorized adult volunteers, and, on occasion, officers and non-commissioned members of other CF branches. The CIC is specifically trained to deliver the Royal Canadian Sea, Army, and Air Cadet training program, and like all reservists come from all walks of life and all parts of the community. Some are former cadets, many have former regular or reserve force service. In keeping with Commonwealth custom, the Royal Canadian Air Cadets stand last in the order of precedence, after the Royal Canadian Sea and Army Cadets.
The Canadian Cadet Organization is sponsored in partnership by the CF/DND and the civilian Air Cadet League, along with the Navy League and Army Cadet League. Each cadet unit is supported by a local squadron sponsoring committee responsible to the national League through each of the provincial committees. The basic Air Cadet program is provided at no cost, including uniforms and activities. Many Air Cadet squadrons are sponsored locally by a service organization or club such as a Royal Canadian Legion Branch, Royal Canadian Air Force Association Wing, Rotary Club, or Lions Club, others are supported by a locally established committee often composed of parents of cadets. The local civilian sponsors must raise money to provide for accommodation, utilities, liability insurance, local awards, and additional training resources or special activities, such as mess dinners, band instruments, or squadron excursions and trips, not funded by the CF/DND. Cadets and their parents are encouraged to participate in fund-raising activities.
211 Ottawa Kiwanis Royal Canadian Air Cadets is a subsidiary of The Provincial Committee of the Air Cadet League of Canada – Quebec and Ottawa Valley (PCQOV) which is a civilian charitable organization, based on directed volunteer participation. Its mission is to stimulate in youth aged 12 to 18 an interest related to aviation and aerospace while promoting the benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle. The program contributes to the development of responsible citizens who will participate actively in their community projects.
Provincial Committee of the Air Cadet League of Canada – Quebec and Ottawa Valley