#15 NLCC Captain Rankin Navy League Cadets of Canada Building the Leaders of Tomorrow S a il i ng, S u r v i v a l, L e a de r s hi p, C i t iz e ns hi p, F i r s t A i d, R a n ge, New Entry and Parent Information Guide D r i l l, B a nd a nd C o l ou r P a r ty Page 1 of 15
Corps Contact Information Mailing Address: PO Box 20113, RPO Fairview Vancouver, BC V5Z 0C1 Physical Address: HMCS Discovery, 1200 Stanley Park Drive Vancouver, BC Phone Numbers: SLt. (NL) D. Thornhill Commanding Officer: 604.537.5477 SLt. (NL) A. Rubini Executive Officer: 604.202.5781 Corps Email: nlcccaptainrankin15@gmail.com - Administration office hours are Friday evenings from 1830 (6:30pm) to 21:00 (9:00pm). If you call outside of these timings, please leave a clear message and we will return your call. - If a cadet cannot attend a parade night or an activity for which they have signed up, we ask that they email the cadet training center as above and leave a message stating their rank, name, division and reason for absence. The cadet will then be marked as excused rather than absent. Important Websites: NLCC Captain Rankin: Navy League of Canada: BC Mainland Division: www.vancouvercadets.com www.navyleague.ca www.bcmainland.ca Mandatory Events All cadets must attend the following events. If a cadet cannot attend for whatever reason, he/she must submit, in writing, a request for excusal to the corps Commanding Officer. - Tag Days Branch - Parade Nights (call or email cadet training center to be excused) - Tag Days Poppy Tagging - Battle of Atlantic Parade - Remembrance Day - Branch and Division Inspection - Training onboard weekend(s) - Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR) - Community parades such as Chinese New Year Parade, Hyack Parade, Canada Day Parade, etc. Page 2 of 15
Table of Contents Values of the Navy League Cadet Movement... 4 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers... 6 Corps Overview... 8 Location..8 Parade Nights...8 Organization Chart..9 Navy League Cadet Training Program... 9 Proficiency Training Program..9 Navy League Cadet Rank System...10 NLCC Captain Rankin Promotion Policy.10 Navy League Cadet Uniforms... 12 Numbered Orders of Dress.13 Hair Regulations..14 Miscellaneous Dress Regulations 14 Corps Website... 15 Page 3 of 15
Dear New Entry and/or Parent: Thank you for your interest in Canada s most popular and successful youth organization! This guide is intended to provide important information to both brand new entries and parents who have recently joined us, as well as potential new entries and parents who are interested in the Navy League Cadet Program. Please keep this guide so that you may refer to it for any questions that you may have. If you can t find the answer here, you re more than welcome to ask a member of the Branch or an officer of the corps. NLCC Captain Rankin serves the Greater Vancouver area as one of BC Mainland Division`s best Navy League Cadet corps, one of 12 throughout the division. With close to 70 cadets, 8 navy league officers, and a complete Branch, the corps offers youth aged 9 to 12 an extremely interactive and beneficial training program centered around sailing, leadership, survival training, range, colour party, drill and first aid. We begin our new training year with a Registration Night and then an Orientation Night the week later. The cadet training year is split up into two parts: local training and summer training. Between the months of September and June, NLCC Captain Rankin conducts local training on Friday nights from 18:30 to 21:00 at HMCS Discovery, a Royal Canadian Reserve Base. On these parade nights, we teach interactive classroom training that will benefit you for the rest of your life. On Friday nights we conduct band and colour/flag party training. From November to April we conduct drill team and first aid team practices on Sunday. Cadets can participate in optional programs, after they have demonstrated a willingness to attend the practical training activities such as onboard weekends, BC Mainland Division activities and citizenship tours. This is oftentimes the most fun part of the program! The second part, summer training, takes place between the months of July and August. During these months, cadets attend mass camp held at HMCS Discovery that are specific to a certain aspect of the cadet program. If you are a cadet that has recently joined our corps, we encourage you to make some friends and talk to your fellow cadets about their experiences within the program. Parents are also encouraged to get involved with fundraising, recruiting and various other activities through the Branch. If you are still thinking about joining and are simply gathering information about the Navy League Cadet Program, keep in touch with us and let us know of any questions that you may have. Also, please feel free to call to set up an appointment to tour the cadet training center facilities and see what a training night is really like! We hope that you ll join us for an exciting year of growth and opportunities! Regards, Elbert Qi President Greater Vancouver Branch Page 4 of 15
Values of the Navy League Cadet Movement (NLCM) Vision of the NLCM: We commit to develop in each and every cadet qualities of leadership and an aspiration to become a valued member of their community. We reinforce values necessary to prepare youth to meet the challenges of tomorrow and to embrace the multicultural dimensions of Canada. To this end, we offer dynamic training in a supportive and efficient environment where change is a positive and essential element. We further commit to attain this vision by living shared Canadian values with particular attention to: - Loyalty The expression of our dedication to the ideals of the Cadet Movement and to all its members, - Professionalism The accomplishment of all tasks with pride and diligence, - Mutual Respect The treatment of other with dignity and equality, and - Integrity The courage and commitment to exemplify trust, sincerity, and honesty. Cadet leaders encourage all cadets to incorporate these goals into their daily lives. The Cadet Program has succeeded in producing responsible, active and engaged members of society when cadets embrace these important principles into their lives. Motto of the NLCM: Oceans of Opportunity Aims of the Navy League Cadet Program: 1. To develop youth with the attributes of respect, good citizenship, and leadership 2. To stimulate an interest in the sea activities of the Navy League of Canada 3. To promote physical fitness Did You Know? The Navy League cadets is the only program with junior members age 9-12, whereas the Army and Air cadets do not. This allows our cadets to have up to two years advanced training in lieu of waiting until they are 12-13 to join the Sea, Army or Air cadets. Page 5 of 15
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers What do I need to join? You are eligible to join a cadet corps if you are between 9 but not 12 years of age by December 31 st of the training year. You must have reached your 9 th birthday before you can be registered for the program. The documents required for enrollment in the Navy League Cadet Movement are: - Proof of provincial health insurance (BC Care Card) - Birth Certificate - Proof of residency status (for non-canadian citizens) We also require cadets to have an interest in the program, a sense of dedication and respect, and a willingness to learn. Why should I join Cadets? The Navy League Cadet program offers challenges, friendship and adventure! It s an opportunity to expand your own horizons, contribute to your community, make friends for life and is free from harassment. Many former Cadets credit their participation in the program with giving them a head-start toward their successful careers. Did you know that former cadets have gone into the Sea, Army and Air cadets as officers and even into a post - secondary education to enter into a military or maritime career? Some of those opportunities are the Royal Canadian Navy, the maritime and cruise ship industry. What do Cadets do? Cadets are young boys and girls like you who take part in activities at cadet corps within their local community. These activities are designed to help you to become more self-confident, to develop your leadership skills, to improve your physical fitness and communication skills, and to teach you self-discipline through challenging training. How much does it cost to join? Captain Rankin #15 corps charges are $100.00 membership fee. This fee is payable by cheque or cash to Vancouver Branch and is accepted at the time of enrollment. There is also a uniform deposit of $400.00. This is in the form of a postdated Cheque dated 01 July (end of the cadet year) Fundraising develops responsibility, community spirit, and work ethic in the cadets. When does the corps meet? NLCC Captain Rankin conducts its training parades on Friday evenings from 18:30 to 21:00. Teams such as the drill team, range team, and first aid team will meet during Sundays. Activities such as onboard weekends, training exercises and BC Mainland Division activities will be conducted on weekends. Will Cadet training affect my schoolwork? Education is very important to Cadets. Cadet training is a hands-on, activity-based program that should complement your school studies. Page 6 of 15
Do I have to buy my own uniform? No, you don t have to. The Navy League loans complete uniforms to cadets. Cadets are expected to take good care of their uniform by maintaining them weekly. We ask that you return the uniform in good condition when you leave our corps. Any missing parts will be paid by the cost. What will I do at weekly meetings? Some of the activities you can expect at your unit include ceremonial drill, first aid, sports, and citizenship events that support your community. Many corps have a music program. Occasional weekend activities include sail training and competition prep. There will also be plenty of time to have fun and make new friends! What about summer camps? For those interested, cadets have the opportunity to apply for mass camp, Operation Discovery Invasion held over the August long weekend at HMCS Discovery. Cadets from all over the division attend and they get to meet and interact with new friends. What do I do at summer camp? Courses offered at Operation Discovery Invasion are general training, sailing, range, survival and band. All general training cadets will be required to capsize their sail boat which is one of the big highlights of the weekend. Are there travel opportunities? Definitely! There are scheduled citizenship tours to Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt where the cadets are exposed to the Royal Canadian Navy, the history of the area and a tour of a Royal Canadian Navy ship. They also conduct activities within the Victoria area in regards to recreational activities and museum tours. Who instructs Cadets? The Navy League of Canada has a Screening Program for prospective volunteers. Navy League Cadet Officers are provided opportunities for Professional Development, with subjects such as Leadership and Instructional Technique. Some Cadet instructors from Sea Cadets and St. John s Ambulance have chosen to dedicate their valuable time to helping cadets reach their potential. If any parents wish to become an officer, instructor or volunteer please feel free to talk with us. Will I be expected to join the Canadian Cadet Movement? No. Cadets make absolutely no commitments regarding future cadet involvement, and are free to leave at any time. However, those who decide to join the Sea, Army and Air Cadets later start out with the advantage of having learned valuable skills through Navy League Cadets. Page 7 of 15
Corps Overview Location NLCC Captain Rankin is located in Vancouver, BC. Our Navy League Centre is located in Stanley Park at HMCS Discovery, 1200 Stanley Park Drive, Vancouver, BC Parade Nights NLCC Captain Rankin parades on Friday evenings from 1830 to 2100. On the last Friday of every month, there will be a Commanding Officer s Parade where the commanding officer inspects the ships` company. Typically, the opening parade is followed by one class, a fifteen minute break where cadets can purchase refreshments at the corps canteen, a final class, and a closing parade called evening quarters and Sunset where the Commanding Officer will make announcements, be available for questions and lower the flag. Timings of a parade night are as follows: Time 1700-1715 Officers Arrive Activity 1715-1730 Senior Cadets / Band / Colour Party Arrive 1730-1815 Band / Colour Party Practice 1815-1830 Ship s Company Arrives 1830-1845 Attendance 1845-1855 Opening Parade (Colours) 1900-1945 Period One 1945-2000 Break (Stand Easy) 2000-2040 Period Two 2040-2045 Fall in 2045-2055 Closing Parade (Sunset) 2055-2105 Clean Up (Duty Watch) 2105-2115 Ashore Did You Know? A good number of young kids have considered joining the Navy League Cadet Program. There are currently 55,000 young Cadets enrolled in the Navy league Cadet Movement. Of this, 24,500 cadets are enrolled in over 100 corps across the nation. Page 8 of 15
Organization Chart The following flowchart displays the command structure of the officer staff of NLCC Captain Rankin. This is a basic chart and is subject to change as deemed necessary by the CO. For the current roster of officers, please visit the Corps website. Commanding Officer CO Executive Officer XO Training Officer Trg O Administration Officer Admin O Supply Officer Sup O Navy League Cadet Training Program Navy league Cadet Training Program Cadets will progress through a training level for every year that they are enrolled in the program. Subject material learned will differ from level to level to prevent the cadet from learning the same thing more than once. The training levels are as follows: Level 1 OC-AC Level 2 AC-LC Level 3 LC-PO2 Level 4 PO2-PO1 Level 5 On the Job Training CPO2 Each level will consist of classroom style theory lectures, practical application, and written examinations. Cadets are required to maintain a standard of knowledge in order to successfully complete a level. In the first level, cadets will learn material contained within the following subjects: Drill, General Cadet Knowledge and more! Page 9 of 15
Navy League Cadet Rank System NLCC Captain Rankin Promotion Policy This promotion policy is promulgated under the authority of the Commanding Officer of NLCC Captain Rankin and is to amplify the requirements of NL-8. Promotions are made at the discretion of the Commanding Officer of NLCC Captain Rankin and are based on qualification and merit. Promotions are made when the cadets complete the required training: parents will be informed when the cadets will be promoted. The Commanding Officer of NLCC Captain Rankin is the sole authority for promotion up to the rank of Chief Petty Officer 2 nd Class. Promotion to the Chief Petty Officer 1 st Class ranks will be made upon successful completion of assessments carried out by and authorized by the Commanding Officer of NLCC Captain Rankin. The following are the national and local standards for each rank that must be satisfied prior to a promotion: 1. New Entry (NE): This is a position we call for those cadets who are just joining the corps and will take the 6 week new entry training program. Upon successful completion of the training, the cadet will take the navy league cadet oath and be promoted to ordinary cadet. 2. Ordinary Cadet (OC) This rank is automatic upon completion the new entry training. No qualifications need to be satisfied and no rank is worn on the uniform 3. Able Cadet (AC) Cadet must have actively participated in the training level 1 of the NL training program for a period of six months. Local standard: Participation in corps activities and attendance 4. Leading Cadet (LC) Cadet must have actively participated in the training level 2 of the NL training program for a period of six months. Local standard: Participation in corps activities and attendance Page 10 of 15
5. Petty Officer 2 nd Class (PO2) Cadet must have successfully completed training Level 3 of the NL mandatory training program. Local standard: Participation in corps activities and attendance 6. Petty Officer 1 st Class (PO1) Cadet must have completed at least six months satisfactory service at the rank of PO2, and have successfully completed Training level 4 of the NL training program. Local standards: Cadet must have demonstrated, to a level as would be expected from a PO1, proficient levels of attendance, dress and deportment, participation, instruction and leadership abilities, attitude and maturity and must have 100% attendance at Tag Days 7. Chief Petty Officer 2 nd Class (CPO2) Cadet must have completed at least six months satisfactory service at the rank of PO1; successfully complete proficiency level 5 of the NL training program. Local Standards: Cadet must have demonstrated, to a level as would be expected from a CPO2, proficient levels of attendance, dress and deportment, participation, instruction and leadership abilities, attitude and maturity and must have 100% attendance at Tag Days. 8. Chief Petty Officer 1 st Class (CPO1) Cadet must have completed at least six months satisfactory service at the rank of CPO2; successfully completed all levels of the NL mandatory training program. Local Standards: Cadet must have demonstrated, to a level as would be expected from a CPO1, proficient levels of attendance, dress and deportment, participation, instruction and leadership abilities, attitude and maturity and must have 100% attendance at Tag Days. All rank badges are worn as slip-ons on the part of the shoulders known as the rank slide. All trade badges are worn on the upper part of the Right sleeve and skill badges are worn lower part of the right sleeve. See next page for details. Page 11 of 15
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Officer Ranks (For Reference Only) Navy League Cadet Uniforms Numbered Orders of Dress Number Name Items Occasions Picture No. 1 Ceremonial Dress (Full Dress) White top, shirt with lanyard,, trousers with belt, boots with black socks Medals when awarded permitted -CO s parade -Formal parades -Other activities as directed -Routine parades -Travel -Other activities as directed No. 2 Recreational Training Dress Civilian clothing worn with corps t-shirt and ball cap -Indoor training -Sailing -Other activities as directed Page 13 of 15
Hair Regulations NL226e, Navy League Cadet Dress Instructions, states that hair on the head shall be neatly groomed and conservatively styled. In particular, style and colour shall not be bizarre, exaggerated or unusual in appearance. Unusual colours such as green, bright red, orange, purple, etc. are not permitted. Hair must be secured or styled back to reveal the face and any accessories used to secure or control hairstyles shall be as unobtrusive as possible. Hair ornaments shall not be worn, except for female cadets conservative barrettes that blend with the hair colour. Males: Hair will be groomed so that when the headdress is removed, it shall not touch the ears, eyebrows or collar. Furthermore: Sideburns - shall not extend below a line horizontally bisecting the ear, Hair shall be kept short, neat and kept free 2.5cm above the shirt collar Taper-trimmed at the back, sides, and above the ears to blend with the hair style Styled so that it does not present a bizarre or exaggerated appearance, or interfere with the proper wearing of any cadet head-dress If a Male wishes to grow out their hair they will adhere to the Female standards as well as the Male Facial hair standards. Females: Exaggerated styles, including those with excessive fullness or extreme height, are not authorized. Hair will be gelled back to prevent wisps from touching the ears and collar. Furthermore: Makeup - Female cadets are not authorized to wear make-up. This includes the use of false eyelashes, heavy eyeliner, brightly coloured eye shadow or lipstick, coloured nail polish, and excessive facial make-up. Hair ornaments shall not be worn. Every effort shall be made to ensure that bobby pins, hairpins and similar items used to secure hair as unobtrusive as possible. Miscellaneous Dress Regulations Jewelry - The only jewelry that may be worn in uniform shall be a wristwatch and a medical alert bracelet. In addition, female cadets in uniform may wear a single pair of plain gold, silver stud or white pearl earrings in pierced ears. The single stud earring, worn in the center of each earlobe, shall be spherical in shape and not exceed 0.6 cm in diameter. Male cadets are not authorized to wear an earring or earrings. Civilian Clothing - shall not be worn with the cadet uniform unless authorized by the CO in special circumstances (e.g. extreme cold). This includes, but is not limited to civilian jackets, gloves and hats. Page 14 of 15
Corps Website / Facebook Group The Corps officers and members of the Branch use the corps website and Facebook (closed group) as the primary communication tool with parents and cadets. We strongly recommend that cadets and parents reference the website/facebook group a couple times per week. The information that is posted is regularly updated and kept very current. The website address is: www.vancouvercadets.com The Facebook group can be located at: NLCC Captain Rankin - Facebook Group Or https://www.facebook.com/groups/206870812695852/ NLCC Captain Rankin #15 CO: 604.537.5477 / XO: 604.202.5781 nlcccaptainrankin15@gmail.com www.vancouvercadets.com Page 15 of 15