Skip to content

Strong showing for 65 Squadron cadets

While the Ponoka Legion celebrated its 85th anniversary, the Ponoka Air Cadets had a celebration of their own — graduation.

While the Ponoka Legion celebrated its 85th anniversary, the Ponoka Air Cadets had a celebration of their own — graduation.

The annual ceremonial review was held June 1 to recognize cadets’ efforts over the course of the year before wrapping up for the summer. There was also a change of command this year as Capt. Heather Schwartz stepped down and Lieut. Tracey Fiedler is taking command of Ponoka 65 Squadron.

Among the dignitaries was Lt.-Cmdr. Robert Newton from Calgary. His job was to inspect members of the squadron to ensure their uniforms were in tip-top shape for the parade. He spoke with cadets and put them at ease while making the inspection.

“It just really makes me proud to see the air cadets,” said Newton. “”They’re proud of what they do.”

He praised not only the air cadets and the organization but also the parents who support the cadets. “As we say in the navy, you deserve a Bravo Zulu and a job well done.”

Fiedler looks forward to commanding the squadron next fall and intends to take her experience leading the 572 Castor squadron in Ponoka. She knew there was going to be an opening and put her ballot in to take over. “It was just the perfect opportunity…I jumped all over that.”

There is support in Ponoka to ensure the squadron moves remains strong — from parents to the staff that operate.

“One of the great things about 65 is they have a great staff,” said Fiedler. “They really do run the squadron awesome.”

Although she will miss Castor, Fiedler looks forward to the challenge of a new squadron. However she does not intend to make any changes right away. The new commanding officer wants to meet and interview staff and cadets first.

“I’m pretty dedicated to these kids,” she added.

Fiedler has two children, one who has aged out and one who is still in the program and she feels there are many opportunities being an air cadet. “I love the program and what it does.”

Ponoka 65 Squadron also received special praise for being the top regional cadet support unit in the central region. Presenting the award was Capt. Bob Bogovics who said certain criteria had to be met: cadet retention, citizenship, overall operation, squadron administration, and captainship were all judged to make the determination. “It couldn’t have been done without the staff.”

Roger Thompson, parent liaison and wing commander, enjoys these ceremonial reviews as the cadets get to take account of their accomplishments over the year. “This is a great program for people as far as I’m concerned.”

Older cadets teach the younger ones their experiences and he feels this way of teaching helps build confidence. “The life skills they learn, you can’t put a price on it,” he said.

There are 44 squadrons in Alberta with more than 2,500 cadets graduating in the next few weeks.

Cadets awards:

• Top level 1: Leading aircraftman, Trevor Scharf

• Top level 2: Cpl. Aaron Chalifoux

• Top level 3: Flight Cpl. James Nobles

• Top level 4: Sgt. Chance Stuart-Leamont

• Top level 5: Flight Sgt. Casey Cohoe

• Most proficient Non Commissioned Officer: warrant officer second class, Matthew Granson

• Top senior uniform: Flt. Sgt. Clint Rodney

• Junior: Cpl. Aaron Chalifoux and leading aircraftman Trevor Scharf

Lord Strathcona Medal: Flight Sgt. Casey Cohoe

Most improved cadet: Flight Sgt. Logan Newton

Esprit de Corps: Cpl. Joel Paquet Top marksman: Flight Sgt. Clint Rodney

Top ground school mark: Warrant officer Matthew Granson