About 604 'Moose'; Royal Canadian Air Cadets
Congratulations! You have just taken the first steps toward becoming a member of the best youth program Canada has to offer. The opportunities are limitless – you won’t regret it!
The Royal Canadian Air Cadet program is a national program developed by the Department of National Defence (DND) for youth ages 12 to 18 who want to make new friends while participating in fun and challenging activities. DND shares responsibility for the Cadet Program with its civilian counterpart, the Air Cadet League of Canada.
The goals of the Air Cadet Program are:
- To develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership,
- To promote physical fitness; and,
- To stimulate the interest of youth in the air element activities of the Canadian Forces
604 'Moose' Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron was founded on 7 March 1955 and named after our affiliate, 419 Tactical Fighter Squadron, Cold Lake, AB.
Our motto is: 'Moosa Aswayita' which is 'Cree for Beware the Moose'
.Costs
There are no registration fees or dues to join the Cadet Program. Cadets and parents are encouraged to participate in and contribute to fundraising on behalf of the Squadron Sponsoring Committee and Air Cadet League to offset costs not covered by the Department of National Defence.
Uniforms
Upon joining, uniforms are loaned free of charge and must be returned upon departure from squadron.
Canadian Forces
While cadets learn about the Canadian Forces, they are not member of the military nor are they expected to join.
Attendance and Active Participation
Cadets are expected to attend weekly meetings (parades). Missing too many parades can interfere with completion of training and promotions. If a cadet will be absent, they must notify the unit and ensure that they catch up on missed training. Cadets should be punctual; arriving 5-10 minutes before an activity starts.
Staff
The Squadron staff is comprised of members of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) who are part-time Canadian Forces officers responsible for the training and administration of cadets. Other Canadian Forces members and Civilian Instructors/Volunteers may also be part of the staff.
Squadron Sponsoring Committee
The Squadron Sponsoring Committee coordinates local support for the Cadets. 604 'Moose' Squadron Sponsoring Committee is comprised of all the parents of 604 cadets. The Sponsoring Committee is responsible for providing suitable accommodation for cadet training activities, promoting the Cadet Program to the community and fundraising and managing the funds for additional activities not supported by the DND.
Parental Role
Supporting and encouraging your child is an important aspect of your role in the cadet program. Please help your cadet to arrive on time for cadet activities and be there to pick them up promptly when activities end. It is important that you keep the Squadron Staff informed of any changes that may affect your child’s personal file such as medical concerns, emergency contact information, legal custody, and contact info. You should also inform the Squadron Staff of any incidents or concerns. Feel free to contact the Commanding Officer or a member of the staff at any time throughout the year but understand the responsibility rests with with with your child to keep you informed of the activities at the cadet unit.