Recruitment began last week for the army cadets program in Fort Smith. Youth aged 12 to 18 will be given the opportunity to train, travel and compete with expeditions, biathlon, marksmanship and more, throughout the year.
“The aim is to develop youth in the attributes of leadership, citizenship and promote physical fitness, as well as to learn more about the military component,” said Commanding Officer Diane Porter.
The free program gives youth training in general outdoor skills, or “bushcraft,” such as orienteering.
Cadets are able to travel to Yellowknife and Whitehorse for competitions and training, as well as internationally for expeditions.
“There are exceptional opportunities to travel in this program,” said Porter, noting that in previous years cadets have hiked the Chillicoot Trail in Yukon and sea kayaked in Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska. “The opportunities are endless.”
Porter said the program encourages cadets to engage the community.
“We encourage them to be active in the community and develop attributes of good leadership.”
Cadets meet every Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. at the Armories on McDougal Road.
Facebook
Twitter
