Air Cadets from all over the country received their Power Pilot licence and wings following six weeks of training. Last week (Friday, August 19th), these cadets marched across the parade square in front of family and friends to show off their pride and accomplishment for a successful summer. These dedicated cadets have successfully passed the flying requirements and earned their wings. Warrant Officer Aris Amalla, from New Brunswick, one of the cadets on the course, explained how he felt after completing such a prestigious course.
"Well, it's been a long-time dream of mine to get my wings through the cadet program." Amalla continues, "I have no words that can describe how I feel right now. It's just something I've been working so hard for, and I can't define it as more than fantastic."
Amalla also talks about what he thinks of being in Manitoba all summer.
"The elephant in the room is that it's very flat because there are very few large landmarks around. Luckily, there are plenty of grid squares make that it very quick to orient yourself, whether you're practicing slow flight, stalls, or any other maneuver. So, that's one of the things that is interesting about Manitoba, which makes it also very challenging to fly."
Calum McConnel, another one of the cadets who received their wings and was also the recipient of Top Cadet this summer, says that the friendships he made this summer will last forever.
"It's been a great group of people. We've all been supporting each other along the way, helping each other out with everything-- the ground school, the great group of people, and we are definitely friends for a lifetime. I think we were talking about going to fly one day, meet up somewhere, and go flying together."
Major Michele Comeau, the Power Pilot Training Course Coordinator for the Regional Cadet Support Unit Northwest, adds how proud she is of these cadets and their accomplishments.
"They have put in so much work, dedication, and focus. It was fantastic to finally see them smiling and celebrating their completion and success."
She also notes how great it was seeing so many people come to the grad parade.
"I love it. Of course, we haven't seen other people, coming out of the two years of the pandemic. So, having an audience for a parade was a milestone in itself, and to see how happy and proud these parents are of their cadets is fantastic. "
The cadets have gone through many hours of studying, passing many exams, and completing ground school with an exciting program for air cadets across the country. While in Southport, they put in over 12 hours of work a day while also getting the opportunity to fly each day. Now that this is completed, they can return to their hometowns to show off their license and new wings.