Introduction

There are more than 3500 young men and women, between 12 and 18, who have chosen to join "the best youth organization in Canada" - the Royal Canadian Army Cadets. Army Cadets belong to a "corps" /kor/. There are 90 corps in communities throughout the four Atlantic provinces.

Army Cadets meet weekly during the school year. They participate in a fun and adventure filled program with four levels, each requiring one year to complete. Subjects include drill, bushcraft, map and compass, marksmanship, citizenship, leadership, methods of instruction, and physical fitness. Army Cadets also participate in weekend activities (field exercises) to practice their skills. Cadet corps offer optional activities, depending on resources in their community, that include orienteering, marching bands, biathlon, and competitive target shooting. Army Cadets can also use some of their cadet training as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program.

Army Cadets also attend summer training courses to develop leadership skills. For many it is the highlight of their year. Most Atlantic Region Army Cadets attend courses at Argonaut Army Cadet Summer Training Centre, located at CTC Gagetown in New Brunswick. For courses offered, check out the National Cadet web page at: http://www.cadets.ca/armcad/summer-ete/intro_e.asp

Each summer, from those cadets who have completed the program, 20 of the top Army Cadets in Atlantic Canada have the opportunity to participate in International Exchanges in Europe. An additional 35 attend the Leadership & Challenge course in the Rocky Mountains. Army Cadets who are 16 and are qualified may be employed as staff cadets at a summer training centre.

But perhaps the best thing about being an army cadet is that you get to make a lot of new friends. You will also learn new skills and discover how to become more self-reliant and a better citizen.