Under crisp skies this past Saturday, the 19 Portage Army Cadet Corps marked its 115th anniversary by marching from the Portage la Prairie Armoury on 143 2nd St NE to City Hall, where Mayor Sharilyn Knox bestowed the Freedom of the City recognition. The ceremonial inspection and proclamation celebrated the cadets’ enduring legacy as one of Western Canada’s oldest youth military programs.
A Tradition Steeped in History
City Councillor Faron Nicholls emphasized the event’s historical significance.
“Steeped in tradition, for 115 years now, Army cadets have been in existence here in Portage la Prairie, one of the oldest in Western Canada,” he says, “This tradition dates back to when they’d come into the city, ask permission for the keys, and receive a proclamation. It’s really cool to see these young folks continue this today.”
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The march retraced a route last taken 15 years ago during the corps’ 100th anniversary.
Trevor Henry, a former civilian instructor who participated in that earlier march, returned to watch his son, now a cadet, uphold the tradition.
“It’s really heartfelt to see it happen again,” Henry reflects, “My brother was the CO during the 100th anniversary. This program helps a lot of people — we’d love to see more join.”
Cadets Reflect on Pride and Purpose
For master Bombardier Henry Layton, the day symbolized both privilege and purpose.
“We are exercising the Freedom of the City we received on our 100th anniversary,” he says, “This feels like a day where we can act civilized here and... not really show off, but show what we can be.”
Captain Sean Robertshaw, Commanding Officer of the 19 Portage Army Cadet Corps, underscored the recognition’s deeper meaning.
“Freedom of the City is a civic honour granted to military and cadet units,” he explains, “It shows the city’s support for a program that’s shaped youth here for 115 years. I was a cadet during the 100th anniversary — seeing this continue is incredible.”
Legacy of Leadership and Community
Robert Oldford, who graduated this month as a warrant officer after seven years of service with the unit, highlighted the cadets’ community impact.
“It’s good to see them recognized by the city for all they’ve done over the years,” he notes, “The program teaches leadership skills and much more.”
As the cadets stood at attention outside City Hall, Councillor Nicholls summed up the collective pride, declaring, “On behalf of the City of Portage la Prairie, council, and staff, this was a great tradition to uphold. These young people represent the diversity and future of our community.”
The Freedom of the City, a symbolic gesture rooted in medieval traditions, now serves as a testament to the cadets’ unwavering discipline and Portage la Prairie’s commitment to nurturing its youth.
With 115 years behind them, the 19th Portage Army Cadet Corps marches forward, keys to the city in hand.
