Flight Corporal William Sawyer of 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron in Martensville, Sask., abseiled from a 30-foot tower at Camp Saskadet, near Kelvington, Sask, on July 14, 2022.
Sawyer had the opportunity to try abseiling during the 12-day Cadet Activity Program, held in Saskatoon and at Camp Saskadet from July 11 – 22, 2022.
During the 12-day experience, cadets participated in sports activities, visiting the Wanuskewin Heritage Museum, map and compass, and taking part in marksmanship and biathlon. He especially enjoyed abseiling and building survival shelters.
Abseiling is a recreational activity that involves descending down using a rope in controlled conditions from a mountain, cliff or,as in this case, a man-made structure. “I was a little nervous the first time on abseil, but I then went back five more times, it was so much fun,” Sawyer said. “I want to do it all again.”
Sawyer is in his second year as a cadet at 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. He joined cadets because he has been interested in the military and loved airplanes since he was in grade 3. “Cadets is a great opportunity for everyone,” Sawyer said, “I’ve enjoyed every aspect of cadets so far.”
The Cadet Activity Program is one of many activities available to youth at local, regional, and national levels in the Cadet Program year-round. The Cadet Program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 years old and develops confident, self-sufficient leaders who form lasting friendships and are engaged in their communities. Air Cadets also learn about aviation technologies, air crew survival, and how to fly.
Adults are also needed to help train, administer, and supervise the local youth involved in the Cadet Program. Becoming part of the Cadet Program is easier than you may think, it’s a lot of fun, and the skills you learn are likely transferable to your regular employment. No previous military or cadet experience is needed.
Training restarts locally in September. Contact 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, at 306-222-8628 or email 574Air@cadets.gc.ca to find out how to get in on the fun and learning.
ABOVE PHOTO: Flight Corporal William Sawyer of 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. (Photo: Warrant Officer Samantha Fortune, Cadet Correspondent, Regional Cadet Support Unit)
