Squadron celebrating 76th
The public is invited to watch as 55 members of the 259 Panther Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron celebrate their 76th annual ceremonial review on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Ecole Entre-Lacs in Penticton.
The purpose of the military-inspired tradition is to showcase some of the skills and knowledge cadets have learned over the past training year and during their cadet career.
The event will include a march past, demonstrations by 259’s award winning drill team and military band, and displays that show the cadets’ involvement in citizenship, physical fitness, marksmanship, first aid, rocketry, flight and the history of the squadron.
The squadron will parade before reviewing officer Maj. David Kerr, area elemental advisor of the RCSU Pacific, who served as the commanding officer of 259 RCAC Squadron from 1990 to 1995 and again from 1999 to 2003.
The inspection party will also include Dr. Perry Lidster of the British Columbia Provincial Committee of the Air Cadet League of Canada, Penticton MLA Dan Ashton and Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit.
The squadron is currently under the command of Canadian reserve officer Capt. Richard Hellyer.
The aim of the cadet movement is to develop the attributes of good citizenship, leadership and physical fitness and to stimulate interest in the activities of the Canadian Air Force.
The program offers opportunities for youth ages 12 to 19 to learn new skills, develop their self-confidence and make new friends.