Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, 1995 marks a major milestone in the history of the 795 Iqaluit Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. For 25 years, hundreds of Iqaluit youths have received valuable lessons in aviation and good citizenship while wearing the air cadet uniform. The Iqaluit squadron was formed in 1970 to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership, to promote physical fitness, to stimulate the interest of youth in the air element of the Canadian armed forces, to promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aeronautics and to assist those intending to pursue a career in the field of aviation.
Under the guidance of expert instructors, the 795 Iqaluit squadron trains up to four or five times a week. The aim of the training is to build better Canadian citizens by encouraging the young people of Iqaluit to invest their spare time in activities that would be of future benefit, both to themselves and their community. Although the cadets are part of a well-controlled and disciplined group, it should be clearly understood that the training is completely voluntary and involves absolutely no military commitments.
The training program is based on the study of aviation and associated subjects which are not only of great interest to youth but, in these times, are of considerable importance to Canada. In the air cadets, young people are given a chance to develop valuable qualities of leadership and for those who attend regularly and display the proper cadet spirit, the program offers a host of interesting and worthwhile training opportunities. In short, air cadet training provides young people with a rewarding outlet for their best efforts.
The 25th annual inspection to be held in Iqaluit on May 27th will mark the completion of what has been another excellent year for the squadron, a year that started last September with the squadron being presented with the following awards: the Air Cadet League of Canada trophy for best squadron in the NWT and Yukon; the Stuart M. Hodgson trophy for best cadet unit in the Northwest Territories; and, the Canadian Forces northern area trophy for best cadet unit in the NWT and Yukon.
The squadron has been under the command of Lieutenant Pat Murphy since November of 1993. Pat was training officer with the unit for one year prior to his appointment as commanding officer.
I would like to request unanimous consent to conclude my statement, Mr. Speaker. Thank you.