Annual Cadet Review Showcases Achievements

The 2645 Loyal Edmonton Regiment (4 PPCLI) Royal Canadian Cadet Corps held its Annual Ceremonial Review on June 24 at the Lt. Col W. C. Craig Armoury in Vermilion. This much-anticipated event marked the culmination of a full year of training, offering cadets the opportunity to showcase the skills and knowledge they have acquired before an audience of family members, friends, and distinguished guests.

Volunteer Heather Pynten served as the Master of Ceremonies, opening the event with a warm welcome and expressing gratitude to all attendees for supporting the cadets’ efforts throughout the training year. She also acknowledged the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples on which the event took place.

The ceremony began with the cadets forming up under the direction of their senior peers, as the Canadian National Anthem rang out through the armoury, setting a respectful and patriotic tone for the occasion.

Following the opening remarks, Captain (Retired) Don Henry, President of the Lt. Col Craig Armouries Historical Society, was introduced and invited to inspect the cadets. With years of dedicated military service, Henry brought experience and insight to the review. After the inspection, the cadets performed a March Past with precision and discipline, impressing the audience with their sharp execution.

Henry then presented Star Level badges to the cadets, acknowledging those who had successfully completed their respective levels. Several individual honours were also awarded, recognizing cadets who demonstrated exceptional dedication and performance:

Most Improved Cadet for the 2024–2025 training year was awarded to Master Corporal Zavier Hess.

Best Attendance went to Warrant Officer Jackson Maier, who achieved an impressive 93 percent attendance rate.

Most Outstanding Junior Cadet was awarded to Corporal Domic St. James. This award recognizes a cadet who excels in drill, dress, deportment, leadership, and positivity, while also maintaining excellent attendance and a strong commitment to the cadet organization.

Most Outstanding Senior Cadet was awarded in a tie to Sergeant Keelan Farthing and Master Corporal Audrey Johnson, both of whom actively participated in multiple unit teams and consistently demonstrated excellence in leadership, drill, and conduct.

One of the most heartfelt awards of the day, the Congeniality Award, was presented to Corporal Carson Bowman. Voted on by fellow cadets, this award honours the individual who best embodies the spirit of the Corps—showing leadership, initiative, respect, and a positive attitude. Recipients are recognized for maintaining strong relationships with peers and superiors alike and for actively contributing to all aspects of cadet life.

All awards are granted based on a merit-based system. Cadets are assessed by a team of officers and senior cadet Warrant Officers, who evaluate each individual’s contributions and achievements over the training year. The final decisions are always made as a group, ensuring fairness and recognition of true merit.

Reviewing Officer Don Henry also addressed the attendees, sharing words of encouragement with the cadets and reflecting on the historical significance of the armoury.

A representative from the Army League of Canada – Northeast Zone also delivered a speech, emphasizing the leadership opportunities provided by the cadet program and congratulating the cadets on their accomplishments. Other Honoured guests in attendance were Shawn McKerry and Wanye Rose from Fire ETC, Honourable Doctor Steve West patron of the Cadet Corps and representing the Town Of Vermilion and Vermilion Rotary, Kirby Whitlock and Bob Fisher Member of the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury.

The ceremony concluded with a reception, where cadets, families, and guests enjoyed light refreshments and camaraderie, celebrating the close of another successful year.

The Annual Ceremonial Review not only celebrated the hard work and accomplishments of the cadets but also highlighted the vital role the program plays in developing future leaders. Through discipline, teamwork, and community involvement, the cadet experience continues to leave a lasting impact on youth in the Vermilion area and beyond.