The 2645 Loyal Edmonton Regiment (4 PPCLI) Royal Canadian Cadet Corps held its highly anticipated Annual Ceremonial Review on June 24 at the Lt. Col W. C. Craig Armoury in Vermilion. This event marked the culmination of a year’s worth of training for the cadets, providing them with an opportunity to demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge to their families and distinguished guests.
The ceremony commenced with Officer Cadet Noel, serving as the Master of Ceremonies, extending a warm welcome to the esteemed guests, friends, and families of the cadets. “We thank you for joining us today to commemorate the hard work and dedication of our cadets and to celebrate the tremendous success of this training year,” expressed Noel, while acknowledging the traditional territories of the Indigenous peoples.
With the cadets entering the armoury hall and forming up under the guidance of senior cadets, the atmosphere was complemented by the resounding notes of the Canadian National Anthem.
Following the introduction, Officer Cadet Noel introduced retired RCMP Assistant Commissioner Peter Clark, who conducted the inspection of the cadets. With 37 years of dedicated service in various locations, Clark brought a wealth of experience to the occasion. The cadets then showcased their proficiency as they executed the March Past with precision and discipline.
In recognition of their accomplishments, Clark personally awarded each cadet their respective Star Level badges, honouring those who had successfully completed their levels. The ceremony further included the presentation of prestigious accolades such as the Best Green Star, Best Red Star, Best Silver Star, and Best Gold Star awards. Additionally, the cadets were acknowledged for their dedication with awards for Most Improved Cadet, Best Attendance, Most Outstanding Junior Cadet, and Most Outstanding Senior Cadet. The Lt. Brian J Denness Memorial Award for Most Outstanding Senior Cadet was awarded to MWO Smith. A new addition this year was the Congeniality Award, where the cadets voted among themselves to recognize the individual most deserving of the honour. Rank promotions were also performed.
In his address to the cadets and guests, Clark reflected on the significance of the cadet corps in shaping his own life decisions. “Joining the cadet unit at the age of 13 was undoubtedly one of the best decisions I ever made. Cadet Training instills habits and skills that you can utilize every day,” commented Clark, emphasizing the lasting impact of the cadet experience.
The event also featured speeches from distinguished individuals, including Tracey McNichol, President of the Unit Support Society, Barry Buchanan, Army League representative, and Commanding Officer Captain John Brooker. These speakers offered their words of support to the cadet corps, underscoring the community’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the potential of young leaders.
A moment of significance arrived when the cadet corps was presented with a framed photograph of the newly crowned King Charles III, accompanied by the playing of the anthem “God Save The King.”
Concluding the formal proceedings, cadets, their families, esteemed guests, and supporters were invited to mingle and enjoy light refreshments, fostering a sense of camaraderie and celebration.
The 2645 Loyal Edmonton Regiment (4 PPCLI) Royal Canadian Cadet Corps Annual Ceremonial Review not only honored the achievements of the dedicated cadets but also highlighted the impact of the cadet program in shaping future leaders, instilling valuable skills, and fostering a sense of pride and community spirit.
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