As long as the cadet will be 16 by the end of the course, they may write a scholarship exam, before attending a merit review board (Similar to a job interview).  After completion of a six-week summer training course, the cadet will be issued a glider pilot license!  However, any cadet in the Squadron may attend a glider familiarization flight, wherein they will spend four hours at the gliding site, learning all about the aircraft and its operation, before finally taking to the sky.  Gliding is a unique opportunity, and for many, the Air Cadet Gliding Program is the start of a long and distinguished career in aviation.

-FCpl Derek Strangway

To commemorate this great Canadian accomplishment, a small number of cadets from 111 Pegasus Squadron participated in the Vimy Day Commemoration as a part of the Vancouver Flag Party.  The ceremony began with the cadets marching into a Commonwealth burial site, which is the final resting place of many fallen Canadian heroes.  Speeches were delivered, and everyone in attendance took time to reflect on the sacrifices made by Canada’s brave soldiers, both past and present.  As Canadians, we are incredibly lucky to be part of a nation founded upon equality for all.  For those who fought to defend Canada, the principles on which she was founded, and her allies, it can only be said, in the words of Robert Laurence Binyon, “At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

-FCpl Derek Strangway

In the moments before stepping onto the parade square, though the team was nervous, everyone felt prepared to display the skills they had learned.  The routine was not without its flaws, however, the entire team came together in a remarkable fashion.  In the same manner, the success we ended up drawing from the competition, was accomplished as a team. Throughout the year I can definitely say that I have seen everyone on the team improve in drill, dress, and deportment. With almost half the team being first year members and still managing a fourth place (out of a total of 13 teams) finish is an achievement unto itself.  I would not take back this experience for anything as I have learned a lot about being part of a team, bonding, struggling, and ultimately improving personally, mentally, and in all aspects related to drill.  With an amazing experience like this, I hope that the success of the team this year will encourage more cadets to join the team, and enable the 111 Pegasus Squadron Drill Team to reach even greater heights next year.

-WO2 Paul Opeda