Province Celebrates Cadet Day

Nova Scotians are recognizing cadets for helping to make the province a better, more respectful place.

Deputy Premier Frank Corbett, MLA Gordie Gosse and Maj. Bob Eagle, Nova Scotia Cadet Detachment Commander, are hosting the annual Sea, Army, Air and Navy League Cadets Day, today, Nov. 3, in New Waterford.

"The province is fortunate to have so many young people who are making valuable contributions to their communities," said Mr. Corbett.

"Any cadet will tell you that they are developing leadership qualities, respect and learning life lessons by being part of the cadet movement. This is making life better for them and their communities."

Sea, Army, and Air Cadets are national programs for youth age 12 to 18. They are a partnership between three civilian organizations, the Navy League, Army Cadet League and Air Cadet League and the Canadian Forces. The Navy League also sponsors the Navy League Cadets for youth age nine to 13.

Sea, Army, and Air Cadets offer fun and challenging experiences that develop good citizenship and leadership, while promoting physical fitness and awareness of the role of the Canadian Forces. A nautical theme is used by Navy League Cadets to promote patriotism, good citizenship, self-discipline and respect for others.

"I learned about leadership and how to be a better Canadian citizen and to be more helpful to others," said 18-year-old sea cadet Josh MacIntosh, of the 70 New Waterford Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps.

"It's a great organization to be in, the best in the country. It has allowed me to compete in biathlon competitions, meet new friends, travel across Canada and challenge myself on many different task," said the recipient of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal.

The first Saturday in November honours cadets and the volunteers and supporters of the program, as proclaimed in the Sea, Army, Air and Navy League Cadets Day Act.

Beginning this year, the annual event is being alternated between communities across the province.

"So many communities have proud traditions with the cadet movement, and this is a way of allowing them to pay tribute to young cadets and reflect on past contributions," said Mr. Corbett.

There are 3,700 Sea, Army, and Air Cadets in 87 corps and squadrons across Nova Scotia with a history that dates back more than a century. Navy League Cadets began in 1948, and 150 young people now take part in the program in four corps across the province.

This year, high school students who take part in cadets can also earn a credit on their transcript. The new personal development credit is available to students who take part in approved programs outside school hours that focus on leadership, languages or the arts, like cadets.

More information on Sea, Army, and Air Cadets can be found at www.cadets.ca . More on Navy League Cadets can be found at www.navyleague.ca .