As part of the official conclusion of the 2010-2011 training year, cadets of 893 Beaufort Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron were presented with awards for their various achievements over the past year, in addition to duly earned promotions.
LAC Robert Filmer was named Best Level 1 Cadet, while Cpl. Travis De Rooy took honours as Best Level 2 Cadet.
Best Jr. Non-Commissioned Officer was FCpl Robert Knapp, while Best Senior Non-Commmissioned Officer was Sgt. Christopher Eckert. FCpl Andrew Kim was named Best Supporting Cadet.
The Lord Strathcona Medal was presented to Sgt. Justin DeRooy, while WO2 Eric Hiltz won the Legion Medal of Excellence.
In the shooting category, LAC Alexander Close won for Best Green Shot, while Sgt. Christopher Eckert was named Top Marksman.
LAC Natasha Henricksson got top honours for the Public Speaking Award, while the Aviation Award went to Sgt. Christopher Eckert and Sgt. Justin DeRooy. Eckert also won the Mynarski Award, while DeRooy was named Best First Aider. Cpl. Travis DeRooy meanwhile, was named Top Biathlon Team Cadet.
Also recognized were several members and organizations from the local community for their contributions and support to the squadron: Bruce Brown of Save on Foods; John Briuolo of Qualicum Foods; Parksville Qualicum Aero Club; and Parksville Fish & Game Association.
Special thanks were also given to members of the sponsoring committee, the officers, and the many volunteers for their dedication.
The aim of the cadet organization is to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship, and leadership; promote physical fitness; and stimulate an interest in the activities of the Canadian Forces. Young people 12 to 18 years of age may enrol in cadets. Registration for the 2011-2012 training year will be held in early September. For further information contact Capt Elizabeth Reid, Tel. 250-752-5382 or Elizabeth.Reid@cadets.gc.ca
— Submitted by 893 Beaufort Squadron