Cadet Warrant Officer Andrew Weatherald shows the regional expedition pin he was awarded Oct. 16, after completing a 10-day excursion and 60 km trek. (Photo: Submitted to Shilo Stag News)

K-J Millar
Shilo Stag Media

A CFB Shilo Army cadet recently completed a 60-kilometre trek and 10-day excursion, being awarded a regional expedition pin for their efforts on Oct. 16.

Cadet Warrant Officer Andrew Weatherald was one of 19 senior cadets from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and the three territories who were selected to take part in the Spruce Woods Trek Army Cadets Regional Expedition.

A member of the 2502 1 RCHA, Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corp., WO Weatherald said the highlight of the exercise was a challenging five-day backcountry hike through the provincial park.

“I never thought I would be able to complete [such a long] hike … It’s a sense of accomplishment that I really haven’t felt before.”

WO Weatherald said the cadets had the opportunity to observe a variety of leadership styles and learn insights they can share with their own corps to support personal and other cadets’ development.

“Our assistant team leader was really big into leadership. He helped mentor and grow us into better leaders ourselves,” the cadet said.

After completing the journey, Weatherald shared that the most significant takeaway was the friendships that developed, creating bonds they believe will last a lifetime.

“I have met so many people from across the country. I think the Cadet Program is one of the best places you can do that,” they said.

Weatherall stressed how much they enjoyed the expedition and is encouraging other cadets to take part in similar events.

“Go for it. You never know until you try it.”

When asked what advice he would give to someone in their local community considering joining the cadet program, WO Weatherald said, ‘go for it’ because of the enriching life experience it offers.

“It never hurts to try something new, and it is completely free. So, I would give it some time to see if you enjoy it. You never know where it will take you. It has taken me so many places that I would have never thought I would experience.”

Army Cadet Expeditions across Canada are inspiring youth to push their limits, showcase their skills, and pursue ambitious goals. The expedition program is structured into four progressive levels, each offering unique opportunities for personal growth and achievement. These include community-level adventure training weekends hosted by the local Army Cadet Corps, area adventure training weekends, and regional-level expeditions.

The Cadet Program is open to youth 12 to 18 and is structured to develop confident, self-sufficient leaders who are active in their communities. It promotes physical fitness, healthy living, and an interest in the activities of the Canadian Armed Forces. For more information, visit:  www.canada.ca/joincadets.

With files from: Captain Frances Ogilvie, Public Affairs Officer
Regional Cadet Support Unit (Northwest)

Cadet Warrant Officer Andrew Weatherald provides a briefing to their expedition team during the backcountry phase of the Spruce Woods Trek Army Cadet Regional Expedition, held from Oct. 10 – 16. (Photo: Cadet Capt. Athena Cutts,1856 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps)

Cadet Warrant Officer Andrew Weatherald stands with their expedition team during the backcountry phase of the Spruce Woods Trek Army Cadet Regional Expedition, held from Oct. 8–16. (Photo: Captain Athena Cutts, 1856 RCACC)