News & Events - News Room

By Lt Rob Laurin, CFSATE

      On May 5, the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering (CFSATE) opened its doors to 580 Air Cadets and staff from around the region who came to take part in another competitive Air Cadet Activity Day (ACAD). This year's ACAD was the 22nd since its beginning in 1981. The event seems to be very well ingrained into the Air Cadet Squadrons from around the area as all 16 squadrons that were invited eagerly attended.

      Their schedule was filled to the brim with exciting activities. Right after the opening ceremonies that took place inside Stedman Bldg within an amazing arrangement of jet aircraft, helicopter and high tech aviation equipment, the Cadets were sent to compete for the trophies and glory. Dressed in their uniform, they demonstrated their military skills with the Drill competition.  Fine volunteers had the task of judging with impartiality the work of so many hard working young souls.
The Drill done it was back to the bus to change into shorts and T-shirts, and gone again to the next event.

      At the air rifle competition, these sharpshooters had ten pellets to place in a 46mm target that stood ten meters away.  Impressive results were achieved.  Were they really Air Cadets? They were, and to remind them of their Air Force affiliation, a lucky few got to be strapped into a Tutor jet aircraft for an exhilarating taxi ride on the tarmac.

      Still full of energy, these young military enthusiasts were challenged on their vertigo and strength abilities. The very popular obstacle course tested a few and offered others a chance to rebuild their confidence. The Cadets were kept moving.

      Next they had to run with a balloon filled with water through an arrangement of obstacles set by the event organizer. Of course, even for the most disciplined cadet, having a balloon filled with water in your hand while being surrounded by competitors was too great a temptation.  Very soon, the water balloons became extremely popular.  The organizers never figured out why they kept running out of balloons!

      Touch, touch and touch again was what the cadets liked to do best with the displays. And what is more exciting than the real thing one would ask?  Models!  Beautiful scaled replica of aircraft used by Canada's air forces over the years. Those were out of bound for the fingers, of course.

      CFSATE's Honorary Colonel Bill Coyle had the honour to present 167 Squadron from Owen Sound with the Krista Hofer Memorial Trophy for the most improved Squadron, while 85 Squadron from Grand Valley received the Overall Champion Trophy. Other Cadet squadrons also proudly accepted many certificates of achievement.

      What a beautiful day it was. More than twice as many cadets and staff then expected came through without anyone noticing the logistical challenge involved. Clearly this was another fine example of what teamwork really is. Thanks to a group of volunteers, ACAD 2002 was another success.