Warrant officer Adrian Graham leads his squadron during their march during the 63rd annual Canadian Air Cadets Ceremonial Review. Photos by Tommy Wong.
For some, growing up as a teenager was a time to party, be defiant, and also a time to act out. But for people in the cadet program, that is not the case.
Captain Amanda Johnson has been with the squadron for over 13 years and she's seen it all. This was her first full year as Commanding Officer and she's seen some of her cadets grow from the age of 12 to 18.
There were many cadets in attendance for the ceremony, but she picked out a few of her cadets who she thought would have a story to share. These cadets have overcome many obstacles and their perseverance has been rewarded.
Markus Kelusky is a warrant officer, second class for the 547 Canuck Squadron. He followed in his brother's foot steps in joining the cadet program, but admitted he didn't enjoy it at first.
“I didn't like doing the drills and that was a big part of the program and discipline,” said Kelusky prior to the 63rd annual Canadian Air Cadets Ceremonial Review.
“But after a while, you grow to like it. You grow used to it, and there's so many opportunities the program offers to you. One of my biggest goals was to get my pilot's license and I'm going away to do that this summer!”
The 578 Canuck Squadron hold their positions before the ceremony.
It can cost up to $10,000 for someone to obtain their pilot's license. The cadet program offers a six week course in the summer where cadets will be paid to learn the course, then they'll be paid again to get their pilot's license.
Adrian Graham is a warrant officer, first class and he was the one who led the cadets during their march. The ceremony meant a lot to him because it will be his last ceremony review due to his age, but he's done lots throughout his six years with the group.
He spoke about how special the event was, considering the fact that he was named the commander of the 547 Canuck Squadron.
“There's a lot of pressure,” stated Graham.
“There's a lot you need to do in terms of leadership, confidence and have a sense of personal self worth.
It was a personal goal of mine to be here and to become the leader of the squadron some day, and that day has finally come. I'm very proud of that.”
