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Powell River cadets prepare for Remembrance Day

Program active for more than 50 years teaches youth to give back
Gabriella Dube, Alyssa Holley and Lucas Laroche Powell River
PAYING RESPECT: Youth from Powell River’s 2781 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, British Columbia Regiment (Duke of Connaught’s Own) sell poppies around the community. They have been preparing for their part in Remembrance Day observances for months. [From left] master corporal Gabriella Dube, commanding officer Alyssa Holley and cadet Lucas Laroche. Contributed photo

11 am on November 11, 2018, marks exactly 100 years since an armistice was signed between Germany and allied nations ending World War 1.

Events are planned across the country, and members of Powell River’s 2781 Canadian Army Cadets Corps, British Columbia Regiment (Duke of Connaught’s Own) have been preparing for their involvement in ceremonies for months, according to local corps lieutenant Caroline Visser.

“Every year all three corps march along with the fire departments, the RCMP and with the veterans,” she said. “We all march to Dwight Hall and have the service and then everyone files out and we go to the cenotaph.”

Earlier in the day, one cadet representing each of the three branches of army, navy and air, together with an RCMP officer, stand guard at the cenotaph. Being chosen to represent their corps as a guard is a major recognition, said Visser.

“They vie for the privilege; it’s quite an honour, and it's not easy,” she added. “You have to stay still for a long time, it’s a skill. They have a rifle on their toe. You have to keep your circulation going otherwise you can fall out.”

A number of drills and rehearsals lead up to the big day involving the three corps. Youth between the ages of 12 and 18 have been participating in local cadet programs for more than 50 years.

In addition to training, there is plenty of time for fun and great opportunities, said Visser.

Cadets participate in many outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing, and those involved in the air and sea programs receive specialized training in those fields as well. Grade 11 and 12 students involved in the program can receive school credit for their involvement, and it’s all free, added Visser. There are also possibilities to take part in international exchanges.

“We’ve had two fantastic opportunities for our senior cadets in the last year,” said Visser. “Master warrant officer Lizzie Gillen went to France and before her master warrant officer Katheryn Sheldon went on the Vimy tour.”

Current participants will have the chance to take part in an expedition hiking and kayaking in Chile in the spring. Visser admits that cadets is not for everyone. As a young person, she was not involved in the programs herself.

“I was very heavily involved with music.” Visser studied music performance at University of Victoria. However, her family’s history is strongly connected to the military.

“My mother was in the air force, and my father lived in German-occupied territory during the war,” she added.

Growing up in Holland, her father and his family were sponsored into Canada by one of the Canadian soldiers who helped liberate the country. This has given her a great respect for Canada’s military.

“The uniform means something to me,” said Visser. “It’s important to me. That sense of pride and giving back.”

Although she in not putting her life on the line, Visser said her role in shaping the youth of tomorrow is vitally important.

“My job is to help form the next generation of competent, self-confident, contributing adults,” she said. “And I take it very seriously.”

The Remembrance Day service at Dwight Hall begins at 10 am on Sunday, November 11. For the complete Royal Canadian Legion schedule of events, click here.