May 13, 2012
Charny, Quebec — The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, was the guest of honour today at a ceremony for the 2820 Chutes-de-la-Chaudière Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, which was held at the Charny Aquarena. The cadets paraded proudly in front of parents and friends during the ceremony, which marked the end of the year for the unit.
“The cadets I met today showed me that youth in the Canadian Cadets program develop leadership abilities and good citizenship in their communities,” said Minister Blaney. “Our Government applauds the young cadets who make it their duty to learn about our military history and the sacrifices made by our Veterans. Because of their dedication to commemorating the contributions of our Veterans, I am confident that the torch of remembrance will remain lit for future generations.”
Today’s ceremony featured a demonstration by the musician cadets and a military march that allowed the teenagers who participate in the weekly instruction sessions to show off the skills they had acquired over the past year. The ceremony was also an opportunity to present trophies and medals to some of the unit’s cadets. Minister Blaney presented the Strathcona Medal, the highest honour that can be bestowed, to Master Warrant Officer Rosaly Boutin in recognition for her outstanding performance in physical and military instruction.
After the ceremony, Minister Blaney mingled with the guests, parents and friends who were present to support and congratulate the 2820 Chutes-de-la-Chaudière Corps cadets.
For more information on the Canadian Cadet program, visit their Web site at: cadets.ca. Veterans Affairs Canada encourages Canadian youth to discover our military history by viewing historical documents and videos on its Web site, veterans.gc.ca.
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