Last Thursday was a day of pride and honour as the 301 Alan McLeod V.C. Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron gathered at the Veteran’s Memorial Sports Complex in Stonewall for their 16th Annual Ceremonial Review.
Cadets aged 12 to 19 from Stonewall and neighbouring communities stood tall to receive well-deserved recognition for their outstanding achievements over the past year.
Families and friends witnessed the cadets showcase their hard work and dedication on this special occasion. It was a time of celebration, where each cadet’s commitment and perseverance were applauded.
As they paraded in front of the audience, the cadets showed a sense of unity and camaraderie, showcasing their individual accomplishments and collective strength as a squadron.
As the cadets stood in formation, proud and disciplined, the Reviewing Officer, Brigadier-General Paul Doyle, began his inspection. Alongside him were Commanding Officer Captain Adam Daun, MLA Trevor King, RM of Rockwood Deputy Reeve Curtis McClintock, Ken Power from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #52, Ian Greaves representing Air Cadet League of Canada Manitoba, and co-chairpersons Leah Mitchell and Ashley Sheldon from the 301 Squadron Sponsor Committee.
Each of these individuals brought their unique perspective to the event. From military expertise to community leadership, they all played a vital role in honouring the achievements of these young air cadets.
Top Level Awards were presented: Top Level 1 – Cpl. Quinn Nugent, Top Level 2 – FCpl. Mason Reimer, Top Level 3 – Sgt. Stepan Lavrov and Top Level 4 – FSg.t Spencer Dicks.
Sgt. Lillian Rurak received the Best Morale and Esprit de Corps Award, which is given to cadets who exhibit confidence, cheerfulness, discipline, and willingness to perform assigned tasks.
Sgt. Stepan Lavrov received The Most Improved award for the cadet who has shown steady improvement in all areas through the training year.
FSgt. Nicole Trippier received The Jim Gray Memorial Award for Best Dress and Deportment for setting an acceptable standard for her peers.
Sgt. Ilsa Petrie was named The Top Biathlete, and Sgt. Emma Walton was named The Top Athlete.
The Top Overall Cadet Award was presented to Fsgt. Calvin McCann for his outstanding leadership skills and for being a role model for subordinates and peers.
Sgt. Isla Petrie was presented The Lord Strathcona Medal which is the highest award granted to a cadet in recognition of exemplary performance in all pursuits including physical fitness and marksmanship as well as hard work and dedication to Canada.
Fsgt. Spencer Dicks and FSgt. Nicole Trippier completed four consecutive years of honourable service and was presented with four Air Cadet medals. WO2 Ethan Lecocq, FSgt. Ayden Domansky and FSgt. Calvin McCann received five-year medals, and WO2 Jackson Trippier received his second bar for six years as an Air Cadet.
This year marked WO2 Jackson Trippier’s final year at the 301 Alan McLeod V.C. Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. As he aged out, he was honoured with a Certificate of Service, his graduation certificate and a Squadron Coin as tokens of appreciation for his unwavering dedication to the squadron and Cadet program.
As the evening program ended, the tradition of giving Trippier a march past symbolized respect and gratitude for his contributions.
Tribune Photos by Jo-Anne Procter
