#186 Lloydminster

ROYAL CANADIAN AIR CADET SQUADRON

JOINING INSTRUCTIONS

2015- 2016

These Joining Instructions contain important general information about our squadron and should be read and saved as a reference guide. We have a very exciting and busy year planned and we are looking forward to working with a great group of youth and their parents/guardians.

1. WELCOME

Welcome to the challenging and adventurous world of Air Cadets and especially to #186 Lloydminster RCACS (Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron).

The Air Cadet Organization gives you opportunities to widen your interests and developed new skills. Anything that is worthwhile takes hard work and self-discipline.

2. NEW CADETS

New cadets are enrolled each year. Cadets must be 12 years of age. If a cadet is not 12 until later in the year, they may join but will not be promoted until the requirements have been met.

Parent(s) or Guardian(s) must help cadets fill out the Application for Membership andbring the cadet’s birth certificate and health care card.

Please note that there is no charge or registration fee to belong to Air Cadets.However, cadets and parents will be required to attend a portion of fundraising efforts to help finance the building and extra activities. Occasionally cadets will be asked to bring a small portion of money to offset the cost of large events.

First year cadets will begin Level One trainingand then progress through the levels each year after passing the requirements of their required levels. If the Cadet is 14 years of age or older when they join, arrangements should be made with the Commanding Officer to participate in accelerated training.

3. PARADE NIGHT

Parade Night is every Tuesday evening, with the exception of designated holidays. We begin the first Tuesday in September and continue until June. We paradeat ES Laird School, located at 4808 45 Ave. After the parade our office is at the 186 Air Cadet Hall located two blocks west at 4725-49th street.

The timings forParade Nights are as follows:

6:15 (1815 hrs) Cadets arrive

6:30 (1830 hrs) All Cadets fall in for attendance & inspection

6:45 (1845 hrs) Inspection by CO or other officer & March Pass

7:00 (1900 hrs) Period One

7:35 (1935 hrs) Period Two

8:05 (2005 hrs) Break

8:20 (2020 hrs) Period Three

8:50 (2050 hrs) Final parade and announcements

9:15 (2115 hrs) Cadets are dismissed. Cadets must leave the school prior to 9:30 (2130 hrs) when the doors are locked.

4. ATTENDANCE

If a cadet has three consecutive absences from regular training nights there will be a review of the cadet’s file and actions will be considered.

Cadets will be expected to be punctual and maintain at least 60% attendance, in order to be promoted or attend larger activities and trips. Noting that training nights and the 10 Mandatory events (RED) are just that, Mandatory and lack in attendance to the 10 Events, could have a cadet not get promoted, abstain from summer training or not be available for larger exercises due to material being missed.

5. EXCUSED ABSENCE – MANDATORY EVENTS

*Cadets are asked to phone the cadet hall if they are ill or unable to attend parade.

Cadets who are unable to attend any other mandatory events are required to fill out the Excused Absence sheet found on the Facebook page/office/website. This is done so resources are not wasted, and enough food/transportation and staff are available. Realizing that our mandatory events are the most important events that we have and cadets are required to attend. All mandatory events are listed in the Calendar.

6. TRAINING

The Air Cadet training program consists of a wide range of classes focusing on aviation, as well as classes on leadership, survival, range (shooting), drill(marching), physical fitness, instructional techniques, general cadet knowledge, and citizenship.Cadets will also have the opportunity to participate in a number of extra activities, some are listed in the calendar and EVENTS section, and new events will be published in the monthly calendar.

Cadets will be given class material through their instructor. It is recommended cadets bring a pen/pencil and small notebook to have for classes. All handouts and other material needed will be supplied by the instructor, and additional information is available to cadets online.

7. CADET BEHAVIOR

Cadets will not slouch, smoke, chew gum, use obscene language, fraternize, walk arm in arm or put their hands into their pockets while in uniform. Horseplay is not allowed. Cadets will march in single file in the hallway and come to attention to acknowledge the flag when entering and exiting a classroom. All cadets shall conduct themselves in a manner that reflects pride in our squadron, the cadet program and themselves.

Under no circumstances shall cadets smoke or be in possession of tobacco products. No cadet shall consume or be in possession of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs, or be under the influence of these substances during Squadron activities.Offences can lead to suspension or dismissal from the cadet program.

The Cadet Movement has a zero tolerance policy for harassment and abuse. All cases of harassment and abuse will be dealt with as a serious matter. All cadets will receive training in Positive Social Youth Relations (PSRY) to help educate and prevent incidents. OurUnit Cadet Conflict Management Advisor (UCCMA)is Capt. Matias

8. CELL PHONES & ELECTRONICS DEVICES

*Cadets bring electronics and valuables at their own risk. 186 SQN & E.S. Laird School will not be held responsible for lost or damaged items.

Cadets in Levels 4,5,6 are welcome to use cell phones or electronic aids to add to their lesson. They must be used appropriately and only for cadet related work as directed by their instructors.Cadets in levels 1,2,3 are allowed to carry a cell phone, but are only to use it before fall-in and after dismissal. (Unless an instructor has indicated it will be used as part of a lesson). Failure to appropriately use a cellphone or electronic will be noted with a conduct report. If problems persist a request may be that cadets leave the device at home or locked up during the course of the evening with the Officer on Duty (OOD).

9. UNIFORMS

A high standard of dress and deportment is expected by the Squadron.

Uniforms are provided by the Department of National Defense (DND) and are on loan to the cadets at no charge for the duration of the Cadet’s career. All uniform pieces are to be cleaned and returned when the Cadet leaves the squadron,or when exchanges are necessary.

Uniforms will be issued to new cadets once they have been a member of the Squadron for at least three weeks. Your patience is requested in this matter, as not all sizes are on hand and must be ordered.

Cadets will wear their uniforms every parade night, unless otherwise statedor posted.

The LAST TUESDAY of every month, the cadets are inspected by the Commanding Officer (CO’s parade). During this time special presentations will be made to acknowledge cadet accomplishments throughout thepast month.

Cadets are responsible for the care and upkeep of their uniforms. Boots shall be highly polished. All uniforms shall be clean and neatly pressed for each parade. Under no circumstances shall civilian articles of clothing be worn with any part of the uniform. If cadets are unable to wear a uniform – cadets shall wear black dress pants, black shoes and a white collared shirt. Parents / guardians should support their cadet by ensuring cadets maintain their own uniforms.

Outgrown items can be exchanged by making arrangements with the Supply Officer on TUESDAY nights.

Cadets should be aware of, and follow, the dress regulations for hair, facial hair, make-up, piercings and tattoos, from the dress regulations found under “file” on ourwebsite.

Civilian Clothing: The following guidelines will be enforced for civilian clothing (civies). No ripped or torn jeans, no spaghetti straps (tank tops that cover bra straps are allowed), no bellies showing, no vulgar or “off color” items. No underwear is allowed to be visible. Skirts must reach the top of the kneecap. For Civilian Activities, cadets will be reminded about being appropriately dressed for the event. Simple Rule: Respect oneself and be covered! NOTE: Inappropriate attire could lead to cadet NOT being able to participate in the event or being sent home.

10. STAFF

The staff at 186 looks forward to meeting new cadets’ families, and welcoming back returnees. We love working with cadets, and strive to improve our SQN each year. It is an honour to work with the future leaders of Canada.

Commanding Officer/UCCMACapt Matias

DCOLt Owens

Training OfficerMr. Glogowski

Administration OfficerOCdt Leduc

SupplyOfficerMr. Hart

Training StaffMr. Appleby

Mr. MacPhee

Mr. Connolly

Mr. Claughton

Ms. Collins

Mr. Bird

Ms. Ellis

11. COMMUNICATION

There are a number of ways that we communicate at 186:

  1. Announcements: are delivered to the Cadets at the end of each parade night.
  2. Meetings: ALL parents/guardians are invited and strongly encouraged to attend the monthly Sponsoring Committee meetings that are held on the1stTUESDAY of every month 7 pm at E.S. Laird-unless otherwise stated.
  3. Calendar: these are handed out once a month with information about the upcoming events, including parade nights.
  4. Facebook page:186’s main venue for cyber communication. Links are available for important forms, files, contact information, etc. All changes and information will be posted here. Upon joining 186, all cadets and parents should request to join our “186 Lloydminster Air Cadet Squadron” group.
  5. Text Messaging: Ensure you’ve submitted your cell number to our Sponsoring Committee as they will set you up for remind 101 to receive a text message in the event our times have changed coming home from a weekend activity. (Or other urgent matters).
  6. The SQN web site:

12. SIGN UP SHEETS

For Non-Mandatory Events(yellow/green) cadets will sign up if they would like to attend. Signing up is a commitment. Cadets who sign up, but are unable to attend must cross their names off at least 2 weeks prior to the event.
After ‘signing up’ cadets will receive a warning order, (which will also be posted on the Facebook group) including times, dress code, kit list and permission slip (if required).

13. EVENTS

See attached annual Calendar for events.

14. PROMOTIONS

Certain requirements are necessary for promotion including time in rank, and completion of training. For promotion from Air Cadet (AC) to Leading Air Cadet (LAC) you must: Participate in level one for min five months; be recommended by flight commander.

For promotion from Leading Air Cadet (LAC) to Corporal (CPL) you must hold the rank of LAC; successfully complete year one training; be recommended by flight commander.

Each level has a requirement and standard that the cadet MUST achieve before being promoted. Commanding Officer and Training Staff have the final say as cadet will take on additional responsibilities with each new rank and must be ready to support unit, take on challenges of new role and be mentally prepared to succeed. Individual coaching is available to those cadets who need it through their level officers. Each rank request will be reviewed – noting that some cadets may not be promoted as fast as others, this depends on capability of the individual. If in doubt – please ask, we are available to all who inquire.

15. SQUADRON PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES

At 186 SQN we have a number of extra activities that the Cadets have the option of participating in. These include:

  1. Ground School: preparation for cadets who wish to apply for the Gliding or Power Scholarship. Will run weekly on an evening TBD between Oct and Jan. (Mr. Will Connolly)
  2. Range/Marksmanship: We have qualified Range Safety Officers (RSO). Each year a team of four cadets and one spare is selected to compete in the range competition. Once cadets have passed the safety exam, they are encouraged to speak with their range instructor to try out for the team. (Mr. Glogowski/Mr. Claughton)
  3. Curling Team: During curling season all cadets are welcome to participate in curling practice. A team of 4 will be selected and attend the local competition.(Mr. Grisdale)
  4. Biathlon: We support the biathlon program and train to send cadets to competitions available through the program. (Mr. Hart)
  5. Effective Speaking: Cadets are encouraged to participate in the local effective speaking competition. The winner of the competition will be presented with a pin for his or her uniform and canmove on to compete provincially and nationally.(Mrs. Paul)

16. SPONSORS

We are fortunate to have co-sponsors for our Squadron:

  • Legion Branch #39 – President : Mr. Rick Mallet
  • The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) –The parents of the cadets, responsible for fundraising and maintaining our cadet hall. There is a board of members set up to look after this committee.

17. SSC

All parents / guardians are automatically part of the Squadron Sponsoring Committee. Executive positions are voted on annually for those interested. Our 201452016 SSC Executive is as follows: Chair: Lisa Hart, Co-Chair: Trish Ellis, Secretary: Lynette Zorgdrager, Treasurer: Anetta Paul. Parent Coordinator: Lisa Thyr. PR& Grants: Brunetta Mariani, Members at large: Tammy Cole, Jay Holt. Our SSC works hard to provide additionalopportunities for our cadets through financial support.

The SSC holds their meetings the 1st TUESDAY of every month at 7:00 pm at E.S. Laird School. Attending meetings helps parents / guardians to better understand how the Squadron works, keep informed about upcoming events, discuss new ideas and fundraising projects and meet with other parents socially.

All parents / guardians that will be in contact with cadets as chaperones or supervisors must be screened through the SSC. This is for the safety of all of our Cadets.

18. ACR

The 2015-2016 Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR) is held on Tuesday, June 7 2015. This is the annual graduation for cadets when they can invite family and friends to view the parade and attend a program which includes a guest speaker and presentation of awards. Tuesday night parades are finished for the year after ACR, but often trips, wind-up parties and fundraising events will continue to run throughout June. July and August are stand down months, and no cadet activities will take place (other than Summer Training).

19. TROPHIES AWARDS & MEDALS

Cadets who receive over 100% attendance in all mandatory events – (no excused reports) both Tuesday parades and weekend activities, will receive a pin at ACR to wear inside the wedge.

186 SQN will award deserving cadets with trophies to recognize the efforts throughout the year during the ACR.

Cadets who meet the requirements may be eligible for the Lord Strathcona or Legion Medal of Excellence. Cadets who have completed four years of honourable service will be awarded with the Cadet Long Service Medal.

20. SUMMER TRAINING (ST)

There are a limited number of spots available for summer training. All expenses, including transportation, are covered by DND (the Department of National Defense). Applications are to be filled out in January. Applications arriving after Jan 12th will not be accepted. Summer Training is one of the most enjoyable parts of most cadets’ careers but it is hard work. The purpose of Summer Training is to participate in activities, knowledge and theory into practice and have cadets bring knowledge back to the SQN, to share with others. Cadets have daily room and uniform inspections, classes and physical training. It is not a vacation, but a rewarding experience which will aid them in their cadet and civilian career.

Level 1 Option

General Training Course (GTC)

Minimum Level 2 Options

Basic Drill and Ceremonial Course (BDCC)

Basic Survival Course (BSC)

Basic Fitness and Sports Course (BFSC)

Basic Aviation Course (BAC)

Basic Aviation Technology and Aerospace Course (BATAC)

Military Band - Basic Musician Course (MB - BMC)

Pipe Band - Basic Musician Course (PB - BMC)

Minimum Level 3 Options

Drill and Ceremonial Instructor Course (DCIC)

Survival Instructor Course (SIC)

Fitness and Sports Instructor Course (FSIC)

Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor Course (ARMIC)

Advanced Aviation Course (AAC)

Military Band - Intermediate Musician Course (MB - IMC)

Pipe Band - Intermediate Musician Course (PB - IMC)

Military Band – Advanced Musician Course (MB-AMC)

Pipe Band – Advanced Musician Course (PB-AMC)

Advanced Training - Staff Cadet

Some positions are available for Senior Summer Training:

International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE)

Power Pilot Scholarship (PPS) Glider Pilot Scholarship (GPS)

Advanced Aviation Technology Course – Airport Operations (AATC-AO)