COLDWATER BRANCH SUPPORTS LOCAL AIR CADET SQUADRON
On May 30, 2020, Coldwater Branch President Comrade Norm Marion presented, on behalf of the branch, a donation of $500 to Captain Megan McKinnon, Commanding Officer of 724 Midland Lions Air Cadet Squadron. Under normal circumstances, the donation to the 724 Midland Lions Air Cadets would have taken place during the squadron's Annual Ceremonial Review in June. But due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all in person activities within the formation were suspended until at least August 31, 2020. Faced with the fact that cadets would not have the opportunity to complete an in person Annual Ceremonial Review this year, the squadron decided to join forces with Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Trillium, also from Midland, and hold a joint virtual Annual Ceremonial Review on Zoom so that cadets could be recognized for their hard work through the year. The virtual event is scheduled to take place on June 6.
As Captain McKinnon announced the end of her tenure as the squadron's Commanding Officer, members of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 270 Coldwater want to thank her for her contribution to the Air Cadet organisation and in particular to 724 Midland Lions Air Cadet Squadron. During her tenure as Commanding Officer, the Air Cadet Squadron and the Coldwater Branch developed and nurtured a close relationship. We wish her good luck in her future endeavours, and we are looking forward to meeting the squadron's new Commanding Officer, Captain Rosie D'Aguiar. Although the change is effective June 10, a Change of Command Parade will be taking place later in October.
During the year Air Cadets of 724 Midland Lions Squadron participate in a number of activities such as drill, team sports, public speaking, leadership training and camping. Under normal circumstances - i.e. non-pandemic situation – Cadets have the opportunity to take part in summer camps or be involved in community events which can be used by secondary school students as part of their 40 hours of community service.
Although Air Cadets are not part of the Canadian Armed Forces, the CAF provides various forms of support to cadet organizations through a program of Cadet Liaison Officers.
PHOTO CAPTION: While respecting COVID-19 convention, Coldwater Branch President Norm Marion (left) presents a donation of $500 to Capt Megan McKinnon, Commanding Officer of 724 Midland Lions Air Cadet Squadron.
