NR 11.098 - August 25, 2011
OTTAWA - Sixteen Royal Canadian Army Cadets and three Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) officers from across Canada will participate in the Royal Canadian Army Cadet International Expedition from August 28 to September 6, 2011, in Alaska.
“I wish the cadets and instructors taking part in this unique and challenging experience good luck and a safe return,” said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. “This endeavour clearly illustrates some of the amazing opportunities that are presented to our youth through their participation in the Army Cadet program.”?
The focus of this expedition will be on sea-kayaking and hiking, and will provide cadets the opportunity to observe diverse ecosystems and witness the impact of glacial advancement and recession. The expedition is ten days in duration, including four days of sea-kayaking in Glacier Bay National Park, and four days hiking on the Chilkoot Trail. They will begin their journey in Gustavus, Alaska and the end point is Skagway, Alaska.
Encompassing this year’s theme, ‘the last frontier,’ this experience will offer a first-hand understanding of the historical significance of the Chilkoot Trail in the development of the Klondike Region.
“This expedition promotes leadership and teamwork, and provides our youth a chance to persevere over the many challenges they are likely to face in life and their careers,” said Vice Admiral Bruce Donaldson, Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. “This journey symbolizes the unique opportunities offered by the Cadet program.”
The Army Cadet Expedition is the premier Army Cadet activity that challenges Army Cadets in Canada to new levels, and is the culmination of at least four years of training, requiring a superior level of fitness and maturity. This international expedition provides cadets with the opportunity to exercise self-reliance, leadership, and the spirit of adventure. The expedition will also challenge the cadets individually and as a group to improve their self-confidence and goal-setting, teamwork and co-operation, communications, resourcefulness, while testing personal limits.
The Cadet Program is a national program for youth aged 12 to 18. It is sponsored by the Department of National Defence in partnership with three civilian organizations: the Navy League, Army Cadet League, and Air Cadet League.
For more information and updates related to the Expedition, please visit www.cadets.ca.
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For more information: Captain Kimberley Banaszkiewicz,
Chief Reserves and Cadets, Public Affairs Officer
Tel: (613) 992-6865, Cell: (613) 316-6545
E-mail: kimberley.banaszkiewicz@forces.gc.ca
