KAMSACK — “Stand tall. You’re part of something bigger than yourselves. You carry forward a legacy of community service, resilience and leadership, and you’re building stronger communities every step of the way,” LCol Tami Marchinko told the Kamsack air cadets at the banquet following their annual ceremonial review on May 21.
A branch advisor for the Cadet Instructors Cadre, Marchinko, CD, of Portage la Prairie, Man., is a former member of the Kamsack air cadet squadron, who joined 633 Kamsack Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron in September 1984 and graduated as a warrant officer first class in January 1990.
“I’m incredibly honoured to be here tonight on Treaty 4 territory, in Kamsack, a place where I once sat in your seat as a cadet, to celebrate your annual ceremonial review,” Marchinko said.
“The ACR marks the end of your training year. Yes, it’s a chance to show off your drill, but more importantly, it’s a moment to reflect on your growth, your accomplishments, and your resilience. I want to take a moment to put those achievements into perspective.”
The cadet program is “designed to help you prepare for life; to build leadership, confidence, and the skills you’ll need to navigate an increasingly complex, diverse and fast-changing world.
“One of the most powerful goals of this program is helping young people become engaged, responsible members of their communities. It's about understanding, respecting, and appreciating the diversity that makes Canada strong at home and globally. And it’s about you, cadets making a real impact, right here in your town, in your schools, and in your lives. This is a goal that the cadets in this squadron have achieved and exceeded. That’s a major accomplishment.
“This program is peer-led for a reason. You’re not just being taught; you’re teaching each other. You’re coaching, leading, and supporting your peers. And in doing so, you’ve become teammates, role models, and leaders in your own right: skills that will serve you well long after your time in cadets ends.
“This year, we also celebrate a milestone,” she said, explaining that this summer, a celebration will be launched to officially recognize 50 years of girls being officially part of the cadet program.
“Fifty years ago, girls stepped into a space that had previously excluded them. They broke down barriers, changed expectations and helped reshape the program into what it is today: a place where inclusion isn’t just a goal, it’s something we work on every day.
“Some of those trailblazing young women are here with us tonight. Their contributions and the path they paved have left a lasting legacy. They exemplify the leadership and citizenship that the cadet program strives to instill. They are living proof of what happens when you give young people equal footing and let their potential flourish.
“When I joined cadets, I didn’t know that girls had only been part of the program for nine years. It never felt like we were new. We wore the same uniforms, competed for the same honours and shared the same opportunities. And that’s how it should be. Every cadet should feel welcome and like they belong.
“So, celebrating 50 years of girls in cadets isn’t just about the past; it’s about recognizing how far we’ve come and reminding ourselves that equity and inclusion don’t happen automatically. We have to work at them. Today’s cadets, you, are now shaping the future of this program, one that represents the more than 77 per cent of Canadian communities we are part of.
“Of course, none of this is possible without the staff who make it all happen. This entire training year, with all the lessons, events, and experiences, has been delivered by a team of just two. Their dedication, their time and their quiet leadership have kept this program running. On behalf of all of us: thank you.
“As we recognize their hard work and the success of the cadets, I want to speak directly to the adults in the room: parents, guardians and community members. This program depends on people like you.
“If you believe in what you’ve seen here tonight, if you believe in the values of leadership, teamwork, and growth, please consider stepping up. The squadron needs more adults to help deliver this experience to the next generation. A military background isn’t required. Training and support are provided. What matters most is your willingness to show up and invest in young people.
“There is only so long a staff of two can keep a program like this running. If you’re looking for a way to give back, to strengthen your community, and to make a lasting difference, just like these cadets are doing, they’d love to welcome you aboard.
“Forty years ago, I sat at my first ACR banquet, just like you. After five and a half years in the program, making friends across the country and taking part in experiences I couldn’t have found anywhere else, I made a decision to give back. I enrolled as a CIC officer 35 years ago this month.
“I’m still discovering new opportunities and building friendships from coast to coast to coast. But what brings me the most pride is watching cadets grow into confident, capable leaders. Supporting young people as they realize their potential is one of the most rewarding roles you can take on.
“To all the parents, guardians and families, thank you,” Marchinko said. “Your support makes this program possible. Whether you’re driving to practice, helping with uniforms, showing up to events, or just encouraging your cadet to keep going, your efforts matter. These young people rise to meet the challenge because they know they’re not doing it alone. Be proud, not just of what they’ve done tonight, but of the people they are becoming. Your cadets are amazing, and your support has helped shape them.
“Congratulations on your year,” she said.
