The 179th Morden Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron is looking forward to another year of consistency in their program with approximately 60 youth enrolled.

Captain Chris Flook, Commanding Officer for the 179 Morden RCACS, says "we focus on the air element of the Canadian Forces, so I have to do a lot of gliding, flying, air skills like navigation, meteorology, survival . . . along with leadership skills, instruction skills."

There are a number of activities that the youth can partake in with their fellow cadets, from overnight field training exercises, to volunteering, and mandatory training, all of which allow them to learn skills in a fun way. Recently they took a trip to Melita for a curling bonspiel.

Flook adds that the group is really self-motivated. "The majority of our program is geared towards keeping cadets, so they're kind of the leaders, they are the instructors, they're the trainers, so we're just there to help things run smoothly."

The 179 Morden RCACS have been in the area for roughly 36 years, and is sponsored by the Branch 11 Royal Canadian Legion in Morden. The two groups provide support for each other, whether giving back to the community, or spending time with veterans.

The cadets also took part in a number of Remembrance Day Ceremonies around the region, and handing out poppies before November 11.

"I think that's a good aspect of community we like to support quite a bit," says Flook.

He notes that there is still time for kids age 12-18 to get involved before the cut-off date in early January. "It's open to everyone, it's a no-cost program. There's a little bit of fundraising but it's not a requirement," says Flook. As well, there is no cost for the uniform.

"Any potential cadet will get as much as they're willing to put into the program, and that's how much they'll get out of it. We really encourage it and I think it's really good for youth."