5 Cyclone Squadron annual review

The annual review parade for the Royal Canadian Air Cadets (RCAC) 5 Cyclone Squadron was held at the Embrun arena on Saturday, May 28.

This year, which now marks the 11th year of existence of the 5 Cyclone Squadron, Colonel Paul Dittman, originally from British Colombia, acted as the reviewing officer.

The review began with the Squadron’s march onto the arena floor where the members demonstrated precision and discipline. Each of the Squadron teams were present including the Band, Drill team, Biathlon and Marksmanship teams, effective speaking and Ground School. This was followed by the actual review of each unit by Colonel Dittman. Both the Drill team and the band gave demonstrations of their prowess afterwards.

Many young air cadets received awards during this ceremony, including some for sportsmanship, marksmanship, bandsman, biathlon, flight, effective speaking, and many more. Most importantly, a change of command for the 5 Cyclone Squadron was issued, as Captain Andre Deblois stepped down from his leadership role after being part of the squadron for ten years.

“This program is, and always will be, the very best there is at developing today’s young men and women into the future leaders of our country…,” said Captain Deblois. The leadership of the 5 Cyclone Squadron will be taken over by Captain Mason McGill, who first began his involvement with the cadet program in 2002. Captain McGill will be taking over command once the summer is over.

The 5 Cyclone Squadron also mentioned its appreciation for its supporters in the Russell, Embrun, Winchester, Chesterville, Greely, Limoges, Metcalfe and Ottawa areas as well as the parents, staff and volunteers who make the coordination of cadet events possible.