Cadet Warrant Officer Nykoli Leblanc, Cadet Sergeant Van Anderson, and Cadet Chief Warrant Officer Madison Weatherald from 2502 RCACC take shelter under a tree which was used for shelter development. (Photo credit: Cadet Flight Sergeant Talan Kulczycki, 82 Brandon Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron)
Submitted article: Captain Lisa Long, Unit Public Affairs Representative, Regional Cadet Support Unit (Northwest)
Nine Army and Air Cadets from across Manitoba took part in a training exercise challenging participants to build snow shelters and fires to stay warm in the outside elements from Jan. 26 to 28.
Cadets travelled to Kenora to participate in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Engagement experience jointly offered by 26th Field Regiment and 116th Independent Field Battery.
Cadets gain understanding and awareness of Canada’s military by interacting with currently serving Forces members.
During this specific experience, cadets were tested in building outdoor snow shelters that comfortably fit four people. They then had to build a fire to stay warm and dry safely.
Although the cadets enjoyed creating their improvised shelter, they retreated to a five-person bell tent to ensure warmth and safety
overnight.
“Having the opportunity to learn from the CAF members was an incredible learning experience,” said Cadet Chief Warrant Officer Madison Weatherald.
She said CAF members shared their time and skills [so the cadets] could learn ways of surviving in winter weather conditions.
“I am really looking forward to taking what I have learned from this experience and sharing my new skills with my [local] cadets on our next Field Training Exercise.”
The Cadet Program develops good citizenship and leadership, promotes a physically active lifestyle and educates youth on the role of the CAF, while instilling positive military values such as loyalty, service, integrity and teamwork.
The Cadet Program is open to youth ages 12-18 and provides youth opportunities to develop skills that will last a lifetime, including leadership, teamwork and communication. If you are ready for the challenge, visit www.canada.ca/join-cadets.