The 574 Dakota Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron held their Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR) on Thursday, June 18th, marking the end of another successful training year while celebrating the achievements of its cadets and the squadron’s continued growth in the community.
The Annual Ceremonial Review serves as the squadron’s year-end showcase, featuring a formal parade, inspections, promotions in rank, and the presentation of awards and medals to deserving cadets. The ceremony is traditionally overseen by a Reviewing Officer, often a respected member of the local community.
This year’s Reviewing Officer held special significance for the squadron. Mr. Harvey Thibault, the former Commanding Officer of 574 Air Cadet Squadron when it was based in Choiceland, returned to inspect the squadron during its milestone year.
The visit marked a full-circle moment for both Thibault and the squadron, as 2026 represents the 10th anniversary of 574 Dakota RCACS relocating to Martensville. The move from Choiceland was made due to declining cadet numbers, and over the past decade the program has flourished in its new home.
Squadron staff also took the opportunity to recognize the support of the Martensville & District Kinsmen Club, which has been a major sponsor since the squadron first established itself in Martensville.
“We wouldn’t be where we are today without their support,” said Civilian Instructor Colin Kunkel.
Today, the squadron boasts more than 50 cadets from Martensville, Warman, Saskatoon, and communities as far away as Borden.
Throughout the year, cadets participate in a wide range of activities designed to develop leadership, citizenship, and aviation knowledge. Training opportunities include aviation-focused classes, bush survival training, citizenship activities, and hands-on experiences related to flight and aerospace.
One of the highlights of this year’s program was a familiarization flight aboard a Beechcraft King Air aircraft, organized through the Department of National Defence. Aviation remains a key focus of the Air Cadet program, with cadets also participating in airport tours, glider flights, and powered aircraft experiences.
Beyond aviation, the squadron places a strong emphasis on community service. Cadets regularly participate in local fundraising and volunteer initiatives, including Tag Day campaigns, poppy sales on behalf of the Duck Lake Legion, and community events such as Buster Days. Each year, cadets also assist the Martensville Fire Department with packing Christmas hampers for local families.
“We’re showing them what it takes to be a good citizen and contribute to their local community,” Kunkel said.
The squadron’s continued success is reflected in its growing membership, with new cadets joining each year through recruitment efforts, community visibility, and positive word-of-mouth from current members.
An important aspect of the program’s accessibility is that participation is completely free. Cadets are provided with uniforms at no cost, ensuring youth from all backgrounds can take advantage of the opportunities available.
“The Cadet Program offers so many different opportunities, from going to summer camps, to becoming a great public speaker, to earning your glider pilot wings, to making lifelong friends,” Kunkel added.
For staff members, one of the most rewarding experiences is watching young people develop over their years in the program.
“It’s satisfying to watch a shy kid at 12 years of age walk in the front door and then watch them walk out the door at 18 as a confident, mature young Canadian who knows that the hard work they put into being a cadet will serve them their entire life.”
As 574 Dakota RCACS celebrates a decade in Martensville, squadron leaders say the continued growth and strong community support demonstrate the positive impact the program has had on local youth.
“I’ve said it numerous times, and that is the cadet program is the best youth program going in all of Canada,” declared Kunkel.
