Cadets with 859 Crowsnest Squadron during the 48th Annual Ceremonial Review held at the Crowsnest Community Hall in Blairmore on June 11. The event included awards, promotions, and a parade demonstration. | Photo by Nicholas L. M. Allen
Nicholas L. M. Allen
Jun 18, 2025
Annual review highlights growth, achievement and community at 859 Crowsnest Squadron
Cadets, families, staff and community members gathered at the Crowsnest Community Hall on the evening of June 11 for the 48th Annual Ceremonial Review of 859 Crowsnest Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets.
The event marked the end of the 2024–2025 training year and celebrated the achievements of cadets and the continued support of the local community. Reviewing Officer Major Mitch Montminy of the 20th Independent Field Battery in Lethbridge praised the cadets’ commitment and encouraged them to embrace future opportunities.
“Some of the things you’re doing here, not everyone your age gets to experience,” he said. “Those experiences build confidence. That confidence will distinguish you in your careers and communities.”
Montminy also recognized the growth of the squadron, noting how last year’s ceremonial review featured nine cadets on parade compared to nearly double that number this year.
The ceremony included a parade inspection, award presentations and remarks from dignitaries, instructors and cadets. Sergeant Liam Capron served as parade commander, guiding fellow cadets through the formal march past and proceedings.
Capron, who joined the squadron in 2020 during the pandemic, has taken on a leadership role as Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge. He participated in summer training camps, marksmanship and biathlon competitions, and is set to receive his four-year Long Service Medal in September.
Major awards presented during the evening included the Lord Strathcona Medal, awarded to Flight Corporal Noah Neudorf, and the Royal Canadian Legion Medal of Excellence, presented to Flight Corporal Avery Croft. Additional honours included the Top Shot Award to Leading Air Cadet Liam Dunbar and the Robert Duhamel Memorial Award to Flight Corporal Luken Bjorgan for outstanding weekend and optional training attendance.
The Clarence Morrow Memorial Award, which recognizes a cadet who best exemplifies the Air Cadet motto of “To Learn, To Serve, To Advance,” was awarded to Leading Air Cadet Josie Andrus. The Sam Johnson Memorial Award, voted on by fellow cadets, went to Bjorgan for being the most helpful and community-minded member of the squadron.
New rank promotions were also announced, with several cadets earning the rank of Corporal, including Ryland Bradbury, Davis Carrier and Alora Spain. Promotions to Sergeant were awarded to Bjorgan, Croft, Jeeves and Neudorf. Capron received his Level 4 proficiency badge and is working toward his next promotion through a merit review board.
Four cadets were recognized for securing summer training placements: Andrus will attend an introductory survival course in Cold Lake, Bjorgan a survival instructor course in Cold Lake, Bailey a ceremonial drill instructor course in Vernon, and Croft a musician course in Borden, Ontario.
The ceremony concluded with speeches from staff and partners, including Lieutenant Anna McNeil, Air Cadet League, RCMP and Legion representatives. All acknowledged the dedication of cadets and the essential role of volunteers, parents and sponsors in sustaining the squadron’s success.
859 Crowsnest Squadron has been serving youth in the Pass since 1978. Affiliated with 1 Military Police Squadron at 4 Wing Cold Lake, the program focuses on leadership, physical fitness and aviation. Cadets participate in glider flights, survival training, effective speaking competitions and more. The squadron continues to welcome new members and remains a point of pride in the community.
Residents interested in getting involved are encouraged to contact the squadron or attend future events to learn more about supporting local youth in their development and service.
