844 Norseman Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets

Transcription

1 844 Norseman Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets New Cadet and Parent and Guardian Information Package Revised August 2018 Welcome to the Air Cadet program! This package will provide you with some general information about the Air Cadet program and specifically about 844 Norseman Squadron. We're sure you'll find the Air Cadet program has much to offer you, and you'll enjoy many fulfilling experiences with the greatest youth organization available to young Canadians. History The Air Cadet League of Canada is a national charitable, nonprofit organization formed in April 1941 to create a select corps of teen-aged youths who would devote some of their spare time to preparing for the day when they would take their places as Aircrew in the ranks of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) (Air Cadet League of Canada website, August 27th, 2006). From 1941 to 1968, the League provided aviation training and citizenship activities for Canada s youth in partnership with the Royal Canadian Air Force, and from 1968 to the present day with the Department of National Defense. In July 1975, Parliament approved participation by girls in the Cadet movement and female Cadets now account for about 30% of the total Air Cadet enrollment across Canada. For more information about the League, please see their website at

2 Today s Air Cadet Program The aims of the Air Cadet program are: To develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership; To promote physical fitness; and To stimulate an interest in the Air element of the Canadian Armed Forces. The motto for the Air Cadet program is: To Learn To Serve - To Advance 844 Norseman 844 Norseman Squadron received its Charter in Since then, many young people have become better individuals and enjoyed the many benefits of being part of a dynamic team. Air Cadets is a valuable program for many young Canadians. The knowledge and skills gained in the program can be used throughout their lives. The Air Cadet organization prides itself on its ability to train young people to accept responsibility as they develop leadership skills in the various tasks that they perform. Few organizations offer training to their members as extensive as that offered to Air Cadets. The chance to become a pilot, learn about Airport operations, train as a leader, develop as a musician, learn valuable bush survival skills, or travel to foreign countries are only a sampling of the opportunities available to Air Cadets. It is up to the Cadet to choose which programs to pursue, and a Cadet s career will develop around individual interests. In short, the Air Cadet movement has a lot to offer those who are ready to dedicate themselves to gaining the valuable experiences offered in the many programs. 844 Squadron is committed to the development of its Cadets, and our Cadets become proud of their involvement in the squadron as well as in the community and enjoy the feeling of success gained from hard work, dedication, and determination. Based on a national curriculum, we provide a balanced training program, allowing plenty of room to develop personal strengths within a team environment. 844 Norseman Squadron has something to offer everyone, so we welcome you to come fly with us!

3 Administration and Operation of the Squadron 844 Squadron is staffed by highly qualified Officers of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) and several dedicated Civilian Instructors. The Commanding Officer leads this group of specially trained men and women as they perform the administrative, support, and training tasks needed to help the Cadets of 844 Squadron successfully complete all the training objectives and activities. The squadron is organized into three main departments: Administration, Training, and Supply, each led by a CIC Officer or dedicated Civilian Instructor. Other Officers and Civilian Instructors have additional responsibilities such as Band Officer or Range Officer. Administration: The Administration department is responsible for all of the paperwork relating to Cadet records including enrollment, attendance, promotions, summer training, awards, etc. They also handle correspondence and critical files maintained by the squadron. This is where you go for information about joining or leaving the squadron. If you have moved, be sure to let the Administration Officer know your new address, phone number, and address so we can contact you for important news such as offers to Summer Training Centres! Each September when regular training begins, you will be asked to check and update your contact and medical information if anything has changed. Also, a Summer Training Contact Officer is appointed each year to oversee the summer training process and to work closely with the Administration Officer to make sure that all of the applications are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. The Summer Training Contact Officer ensures that the Cadets receive and understand all of their summer training travel information. Training: The Training department is responsible for delivering the entire training program each year, including the mandatory, support and optional training for all Cadet levels. The Training Officer coordinates Officers, Civilian Instructors, and Senior Cadets. Squadron Instructors teach everything from basic drill, range safety, and uniform care to the principles of flight, meteorology, and leadership. This group also arranges field training exercises, coordinates the squadron s participation in the

4 Duke of Edinburgh Award program, and makes sure the maximum number of Cadets go on familiarization flights (power), and gliding each year. They also arrange all of the special training events such as sports activities, social events with other squadrons, effective speaking, and physical fitness testing. Supply: The Supply department is where you go for all of your uniform needs. Throughout your Cadet career, visit Supply every time you outgrow your boots, wear out your grey wool socks, or find your pants or tunic sleeves are way too short again! If you damage or lose any part of your uniform, this is where you report the problem and request replacement of the pieces you need. The Supply Officer makes sure there are plenty of rank insignia (badges) on hand whenever promotions take place. When you turn 19 and have to leave the Cadet program, or if you decide to leave the squadron early, this is where you return your uniform. Squadron Sponsoring Committee: The committee is made up of Cadet parents/guardians and community members interested in helping out the squadron. The committee is headed by a chairperson and executive. Their role is to raise funds for squadron activities not provided by DND such as; facilities, utilities and recreational trips. They also assist in recruitment of Cadets and Staff. This is your chance as a parent or guardian to really get involved! Weekly Squadron Training (Mandatory Training) 844 Squadron parades (meets) on Wednesday nights, September through June, from 1830 hrs (6:30 p.m.) to 2115 hrs (9:15 p.m.). Weekly parades are mandatory for all Cadets. If a Cadet cannot attend a parade night or other Cadet activity, it is mandatory that they (the Cadet, not their parent) call the Cadet's flight commander, or the squadron office ( ) and leave a message with their name, rank, and the reason why they are not attending, well before the evening training or special event begins. Speak slowly and clearly when leaving your information, to help squadron staff maintain accurate records for excused absences.

5 During weekly training, Cadets participate in a variety of activities. As a Cadet progresses through the program, new and different classes are introduced such as leadership, meteorology, and instructional techniques. The progression of training will help the Cadet develop the skills necessary to advance through the Air Cadet program. All classes are designed to enhance a Cadet s knowledge in accordance with the aims of the Air Cadet program. Mandatory Support and Optional Training In addition to weekly training, 844 Squadron offers a number of mandatory support and optional training activities to further a Cadet s skill development and interests. These activities take place on weeknights or weekends, depending on the type of activity. Most of these activities are optional, but some requirements need to be met for a Cadet to move to the next level of training. These training requirements will be made clear to you as you progress in your training. Support and Optional training activities may include: Bush survival training Compulsory and Precision drill team Familiarization Band (pipe & drum) flying First aid training Volunteer Events (such as Food Drive and Highway clean up) Marksmanship Citizenship tours and activities Gliding Effective Speaking Ground School Orienteering Summer Training: A number of summer training opportunities are available to eligible Cadets. Each squadron is allotted a limited number of positions in the various summer courses. Decisions on which Cadets are to attend summer training are based on the Cadet s efforts and attendance during the training year. A Cadet must be enrolled in the squadron by January 31 st of the training year to be eligible for summer training.

6 The current summer courses offered to Air Cadets for the 2013/2014 training year: Level One Typical Age 12/13 2 weeks Level Two Typical Age 13/14 3 weeks Level Three Typical Age 14/ weeks Level Four Typical Age 15/ weeks Level Five and up Typical Age 16/17/ weeks General Training Basic Drill and Ceremonial Drill and Ceremonial Instructor Basic Aviation Advanced Aviation Power Pilot Scholarship Power Pilot Scholarship Basic Fitness and Sports Basic Survival Glider Pilot Glider Pilot Scholarship Scholarship Advanced Glider Advanced Glider Soaring Soaring Fitness and Sports Fitness and Sports Instructor Instructor Survival Instructor Survival Instructor Military Band-Basic Musician Military Band- Intermediate Musician Military Band- Intermediate Musician Basic Aviation Technology and Aerospace Military Band- Advanced Musician Advanced Aviation Technology- Technology- Airport Operations Advanced Aviation Technology- Aircraft Maintenance Advanced Aerospace Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor Advanced Aviation Airport Operations Advanced Aviation Technology- Aircraft Maintenance Advanced Aerospace Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor Staff Cadet Military Band- Advanced Musician International Air Cadet Exchange Staff Cadet Each course has specific restrictions, which will be outlined for you before applications are due. Not all Cadets can attend summer training, but it is an excellent opportunity for those who are selected. Summer training is a privilege earned through hard work and dedication throughout the training year.

7 Air Cadet Training During the training year, the Cadets participate in classes such as: Sensible Living: based around the Health Canada "Canada's Food Guide"; why it is important to keep a healthy diet. Citizenship: what it means to be a citizen of Canada and a little history on the formation of our country. Leadership: duties of a follower, junior leadership and senior leadership skills. Drill and Drill Instruction: how to perform proper drill movements and give commands of drill as well as how to have self-discipline. Drill Theory: ceremonial layouts, parade positions, and other important parts of a parade that make it all work. Aircraft Identification: the different types of Aircraft and what they look like. Airframe Structures: different types of Airframes and how they deal with the stresses of flight. Principles of Flight: how a plane flies, and how the different controls make the Aircraft move through the Air. Meteorology: clouds, weather charts, weather reports, Air masses, and how they affect pilots and Aircraft during flight. Airmanship: Transport Canada regulations and the rules of the Air. Radio Communication: how to use a radio and how to speak while using one. Air Crew Survival: basic survival skills, knowledge, and techniques, generally backed up with weekend exercises in the bush. Instructional Techniques: Level 3, 4, and 5 Cadets: develop teaching skills to become Cadet instructors. By Level 4 and 5, Cadets will be teaching the younger Cadets.

8 Supervising Air Cadets Air Cadets are supervised during all training exercises by Officers and Civilian Instructors. The Officers are members of a branch of the Canadian Forces Reserve known as the Cadet Instructor Cadre or CIC. Civilian Instructors have special knowledge or skills that enhance the Cadet Training Program. Many of the Officers and Civilian Instructors are former Cadets; others are parents of former Cadets; some are individuals who have become interested in the Air Cadet program for various reasons. The Role of Senior Cadets at 844 Squadron As Cadets progress, they learn valuable life skills such as leadership, communication, self-discipline, organization, and teamwork. These skills enable them to become directly involved in the weekly operation of the squadron. Senior Cadets instruct classes, supervise Cadets, conduct parades, and organize support training activities, along with many other important tasks. Under the supervision of the Officers and Civilian Instructors, the senior Cadets play an integral role in the operation of the squadron. Squadron Funding Although there are no fees involved in becoming an Air Cadet, the squadron must raise money in order to operate. 844 Squadron has a Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) responsible for providing much of the funding necessary for the squadron s activities. The SSC organizes fund-raising activities throughout the year and Cadets are expected to participate in these events. Parents and guardians are expected to get involved and help out where needed. Air Cadet lottery tickets are a mandatory fundraiser for all Ontario Air Cadets. Each Cadet is responsible to sell 1 book of tickets. These will be issued early in the year and require a $50 deposit. Upon return of the ticket stubs, ticket money and any unsold tickets, the deposit will be refunded in full.

9 FAQ.. Answers to Some Commonly Asked Questions About Air Cadets What are the requirements to join Air Cadets? You must have reached your 12th birthday, but be younger than 19 in order to become an Air Cadet. You must be a Canadian Citizen or landed immigrant. You must fill out some paperwork, that must be signed by your parents or guardian. You must show a valid proof of health insurance (for example, your OHIP card) and proof of birth date (for example, your birth certificate or passport). Be approved by the Squadron Commanding Officer. How long must I stay in Air Cadets once I join? You may leave the Air Cadet program at any time; however, new Cadets are encouraged to try the program for at least three months before making a decision to quit. The Air Cadet program is probably different than anything you have done before. Many Cadets feel comfortable with things right from the beginning, others take a few weeks or months. Once you have been involved for a few months, get used to the program, and make friends, we believe you'll find you enjoy being an Air Cadet. We'll teach you everything you need to know to be an Air Cadet, but you'll have responsibilities. You must learn to care for your uniform by washing it, pressing it, and polishing your boots. You must learn to act maturely and responsibly by attending weekly parades regularly and telling the squadron when you will not be able to attend. All Cadets must be willing to work and learn in a team environment, accept new challenges, and learn from mistakes. This may seem like a lot, but your Officers, Civilian Instructors and Senior Cadets are here to help and you will have plenty of time to learn these important skills and concepts. Do I have to join the Canadian Forces after I m done Cadets? No. There is absolutely no obligation to serve in the Canadian Forces. Some Air Cadets do join the Canadian Forces, and their Cadet training does help them, but it is strictly their choice.

10 Do I have to buy my uniform or any special equipment? No. You are issued a uniform on loan from the Department of National Defence. You don't have to pay for it, but it is your responsibility to care for it, and return it once you leave the squadron. You will need to purchase shoe polish for your boots, (1 set is issued with your uniform). The olive drab (OD) Field Training Uniform (FTU) is owned by the squadron and is free to use when authorized by the Commanding Officer. A $50 deposit is required and will be returned to you when the FTU is returned in good repair, clean and folded. Are there any other costs in being an Air Cadet? If you are a male, you may need a haircut more often than before! The squadron also has a kit shop and a canteen at break each week that sells drinks and snacks. We may also order squadron jackets or yearbooks for Cadets who are interested. It is up to you if you want to purchase any of these items. Periodically, the squadron may hold dances, and you may have to pay your own admission (usually about $3-$5) if you want to attend. If the squadron goes on a tour out of the city or province, you would be expected to provide your own spending money how much is up to you and your parents. Every few years, the squadron goes on a major trip (such as to Washington, DC). We make every effort to raise funds needed for these trips through fundraising. But, Cadets and their parents are asked to pay a share of the trip, if the Cadet chooses to go. Do I have to do lots of marching? Marching and drill are definitely a part of a Cadet s training because they help develop teamwork and discipline, and many Cadets enjoy it a lot. But it is only one part. There are plenty of other courses that you will be taking. How often can I go flying? Generally, our squadron goes gliding two weekends a year at CFB North Bay. There may also be other opportunities throughout the year to fly in various aircraft.

11 How often do we go camping? We try to organize two or three weekend bush survival courses per training year. These courses are open to all Cadets to attend, (dependant on medical approval). Air Crew Survival is a great way to get outdoors and learn new things or demonstrate new skills. 1 weekend per year is mandatory training. When can I start participating in the squadron s activities? Your paperwork, must be completed, submitted and approved. It is not complete until your parents or guardian(s) have signed the application forms, we have proof of your health insurance (OHIP card) and proof of your birth date (birth certificate, passport), and the Commanding Officer or their designate has approved your application. Once your paperwork is completed, you can participate in all the activities offered to your level of training provided you are medically fit to do so. How do I find out about the activities that are available to me? At the end of every parade night, the announcements are read. It is very important that you listen to these as they provide you with information about coming events. You can also find out about the activities on the bulletin board, our closed facebook group which is visible only to members who are current Cadets, their parents, staff and sponsoring committee members or on the squadron website Parents and guardians are encouraged to come for closing parade each night to hear the announcements, read the bulletin board, and keep up on what s happening. Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to attend Sponsoring Committee meetings to find out more about the activities in which their Cadet is involved. How do I become involved in these activities? For every activity, if you want to attend, you must put your name on the sign-up sheet. It is important that you sign up because we base our quotas for food, accommodation, and transportation on this sign-up. If you cannot make it to an activity, you must, as soon as possible, either take your name off of the sign-up list or call the squadron headquarters at to cancel, as there is probably a waiting list of other Cadets who would like to go if you cannot.

12 What if I cannot make it to a parade? Phone you Flight Commander or phone the squadron headquarters and leave a message on the answering machine at , well before the start of the parade night. Being absent with an excuse will not harm your attendance record, but unexcused absences will. Any absences, excused or not, will have an effect on your training as you will miss classes, so you should make every effort to make it to parade. Who do I talk to if I have a question or a problem? Every new Cadet is assigned a corporal or flight corporal who is responsible for that Cadet. Your corporal should be able to answer your questions or find the answers to your questions. This person will be a big help to you in becoming familiar with the squadron. Uniformed Officers and Civilian Instructors are also available at all times to help Cadets with any problems. Note: The Canadian Cadet Movement does not tolerate abuse or bullying. A Unit Cadet Conflict Management Advisor is part of the staff. Any violations must be reported immediately to the UCCMA or any Squadron Officer. On-Line Information There are websites with information about Cadets in general and Air Cadets in particular. Here are a few to get you started: Canadian Cadet Organizations: Squadron: Air Cadet League of Canada: Public Facebook page: 844 Norseman Royal Canadian Air Cadets Huntsville

13 12 SQUADRON POLICIES 12.1 SMOKING 1. Under no circumstances shall cadets smoke or be in possession of tobacco products during a cadet activity. 2. All staff, including civilian instructors and CIC Officers, shall not smoke in front of the Squadron or any other Squadron's cadets ALCOHOL 1. No cadet shall consume or be in possession of alcoholic beverages or be intoxicated during squadron activities. 2. No squadron staff member, including civilian instructors and CIC officers, shall consume or be in possession of alcoholic beverages or be intoxicated while performing their duties DRUGS 1. No member of the squadron, including cadets, civilian instructors and CIC officers, shall be under the influence of or be in possession of any illegal drug. 2. Squadron Commanding Officer shall immediately notify proper authorities of any breech in drug policy. 3. Prescription medication shall be submitted to the OIC of an event upon arrival. It is the cadet's responsibility to find the OIC to receive their prescribed dose. Life saving drugs such as an Epi-pen and inhaler may be kept on the cadet's person HARRASSMENT 1. Under no circumstance shall members of the squadron exhibit conduct that offends, demeans, belittles, or humiliates another person. The policy contained in CATO will apply to Cadets, CVs and CIs. The policy contained in DAOD will be applied to CIC Officers. 2. Cadets are encouraged to resolve issues at the lowest possible level that is appropriate.

14 3. If a situation persists, cadets are urged to seek assistance from the UCCMA or any staff member the cadet feels comfortable with ABUSE 4. Under no circumstances shall members of the Squadron abuse or be abused by another person, whether it is emotionally, physically, sexually or verbally. 5. Cadets may disclose abuse issues that occur outside of the Cadet Program to the UCCMA or any staff member the cadet feels comfortable with. 6. All infractions of the Abuse or Harassment policy shall be immediately reported to the UCCMA or any staff member the cadet feels comfortable with. 7. Any staff member receiving a disclosure shall seek the assistance of the UCCMA PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 1. Under no circumstance shall squadron staff engage in personal relationships of a nature that is sexual or has the appearance of intimacy with cadets. 2. Under no circumstance shall cadets engage in personal relationships with other cadets while travelling to or from or participating in cadet activities.