Coleslaw

I was also in air cadet, 135 challenger, but that was quite a while ago. Was just an LAC when I left. I did go to a band summer camp.

To clarify, cadets is definitely not for kids to play. Cadets actually don't tolerate much "playing", they are very strict on discipline and sometimes can be harsh. But strict discipline doesn't mean you can't enjoy the activities. I loved going to the wilderness survival camping trips and through that I learned very valuable things irreplaceable from anywhere else. I also went to the summer camp, very strict hours to when you wake up and lights out. Everyone makes their own bed in a very specific way, and it is inspected. We had to march going from one building to another. And morning parade i think more than an hour everyday. I did enjoy my 3 weeks there and it was an important experience for teens to leave the comfort of home for a few weeks. I also got paid $60 a week.

Coleslaw

25# RayRay

I also went to range once, we fired hunting rifles. Cadets don't go hunting, range sessions are just for firing at targets.

Coleslaw

135 is in vancouver, the location is right next to the Molson Canadian factory at the base of the Burrard Bridge.

I was in basic band which was 3 weeks, the intermediate and advance ones which were 6 weeks. It may have changed since then though?

Coleslaw

35# ricrick

It's possible but not everyone gets to do it. You need to have reached the age of 18 and probably of a bit higher rank by that time in order to be chosen as a candidate to take the pilot program. If you are chosen though the program is free, its a great way to get a pilot license. I think Air cadets take teens from 12-19, so you have to start fairly early and work up the ranks for the pilot program.

Other than the pilot program, air cadets studies airplanes and air traffic control. There are trips to local military air base to visit the control tower and look at the rescue airplanes, also chances to ride on small airplane. At the wilderness survival camps, the topics taught are geared towards the situation if you happened to crash land your plane in the BC forest. i.e. survival tips and tricks to use the local surroundings, building a tent from evergreen leaves and branches etc