Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
ABOUT 741 SQUADRON
741 Elgin Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
Proudly Serving The Elgin County Community For Over 55 Years
40 Wilson Ave,
St. Thomas, ON
N5R 3R2
Training is conducted weekly from September through June on Wednesday evenings from 6:30pm through 9:00pm at the St.Thomas Armoury. It is also common to hold weekend field training exercises, competitions, tours and activities, as well as teams and clubs held on various other nights throughout the year.
ABOUT THE AIR CADET PROGRAM
The Cadet Program is one of the largest federally sponsored youth programs in Canada investing in today’s youth and Canada’s future.
The Cadet Program is community-based. The program succeeds through strong community support and involvement. Cadets in turn make valuable contributions to their communities.
For a more detailed look click the image below for The Cadet Experience PDF information pamphlet about the Cadet Program.
The Canadian Armed Forces provides funding and training to Cadets with the help of the civilian sponsor, the Air Cadet League of Canada. Cadets are not members of the Canadian Armed Forces nor are there any requirement for military service.
The purposes of the League are to advance the education of the Air Cadets and to promote an interest in the air element of the Canadian Forces. Young Canadians aged 12 to 18 can participate in a variety of fun, challenging and rewarding activities and learn valuable life and work skills such as teamwork, leadership and citizenship.
Here is a list of just some of the things that Air Cadets Do:
- Citizenship
- Drill
- First Aid
- Aircraft Identification
- Communication
- Leadership
- Sports
- Survival
- Navigation
- Meteorology
- Community Service
- Marksmanship
- Music
- Aerospace
- Airport Operations
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How old do I have to be to join?
To join, you must have reached your 12th birthday. Cadets must ‘retire’ when they turn 19.
Can I join if I am over 12?
Yes, Cadets joining at 14 or over can complete the first two training levels in one compressed year – or they can participate at the regular rate of training.
Are Cadets members of the military?
NO. Cadets are not members of the military and there is no commitment to join the military.
What does it cost?
Joining the Squadron is free. Mandatory training is free. There are some optional activities that will have some costs that are discounted by our sponsors. In return, Cadets are required to participate in fundraising activities.
How much does the uniform cost?
The uniform is loaned to the Cadet without any fee. Cadets can exchange items of their uniform as they grow (which teenagers constantly do). Cadets are required to take care of their uniform and must return it when they leave Cadets.
Is it true that there are Summer Camps and that Cadets get paid to attend?
Yes. There are Summer Training Courses available and YES, Cadets get paid to attend them. There is even an International Exchange to countries around the world (and you get paid to do that too)! See the Training – Summer menu item for more details.
Can I become a pilot?
Yes! Air Cadets can earn the Transport Canada licenses as Glider Pilot and Private Pilot through the Summer Training courses. Also, Cadets can take to the air several times each year at the Squadron as we get familiarization flights in Gliders and Airplanes.
Is there anything in the Air Cadet program for people not interested in flying?
Absolutely! Cadets learn survival skills, marksmanship, learn a musical instrument, there are lots of sports, model rockets and lots more. Along with aviation and many other subjects, Cadets learn about leadership, instructional techniques and citizenship.
Who are the leaders/teachers of the Cadets?
Air Cadet instructors are often past cadets themselves. They are members of the community and have civilian occupations. Some are Civilian Volunteers and some are Members of the Canadian Forces. ALL adults are screened as shown below in the Adult Enrolment section of this page. As Cadets gain experience, they become instructors as well!
Okay, I am interested but still not sure. If I join, do I have to stay all year?
Cadets may leave the program at any time. We encourage all Cadets to stay for the entire year, because, if you don’t like what we are doing right now, there may be something that you will find more fun in the coming weeks and months.
How do I join?
There is some paperwork that must be completed. You can print them out to get started or come in to the Squadron during our weekly training evenings. Come fly with us!
