Cadet Resources

Below are Acronyms and Definitions we use at 205 Collishaw Squadron. For a complete list of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces Manual of Abbreviations view here. 

A

• AC – Air Cadet
• ACLC – Air Cadet League of Canada
• ACR – Annual Ceremonial Review
• Admin – Administration
• AdminO – Administration Officer
• Adj – Adjutant,  a cadet parade position not a rank
• ALP – Advanced Leadership Program
• A/TrgO – Assistant Training Officer

B

• BCPC – BC Provincial Committee
• BZ – Bravo Zulu is a Naval term meaning “well done”.

C

• CAF – Canadian Armed Forces
• CJCR – Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers
• C1A, C2, C3, C3B, C5, C5C – Orders of Dress 
• Canteen – Canteen cards may be purchased at the LHQ
• Capt – Captain
• CO – Commanding Officer
• Cpl – Corporal – cadet rank
• CI – Civilian Instructor
• CIC – Cadet Instructor Cadre
• CV – Civilian Volunteer
• CATO – Cadet Administrative and Training Order
• CD – Canadian Forces’ Decoration

D

• DND – Department of National Defense
• Dress – The clothing type worn by cadets – civilian, summer, ceremonial, combat and full dress is the complete uniform.
• DCO – Deputy Commanding Officer 

E

• ETA – Estimated time of arrival
• EO – Enabling Objective

F

• FCpl – Flight Corporal – Cadet NCO rank
• FSgt – Flight Sergeant – Senior Cadet NCO rank
• Flt – Flight (refers to the parade groups of Band, Arrow, or Banshee)
• Flt Comd – Flight Commander – Cadet parade position (Not associated with individual rank)
• Flt Sgt – Flight Sergeant – Cadet parade position (Not associated with individual rank)
• FTX – Field Training Exercise

G

• GMT – Greenwich Mean Time

H

• HQ – headquarters
• Hrs – Hours – as in 1400hrs or 2pm

IJKL

• Lt – Lieutenant – officer rank
• 2Lt – Second Lieutenant – officer rank
• LHQ – Local Headquarters – Squadron office
• LAC – Leading Air Cadet – a cadet rank

M

• MRE – Meal Ready to Eat
• MRO – Monthly Routine Orders

N

• NLT – No Later Than
• NCO – Non-Commissioned Officer – cadets: Sgt; FSgt; WO2; WO1

O

• OCdt – Officer Cadet – lowest ranking officer
• OIC – Officer in Charge – refers to officer responsible for an event
• OPI – Office of Primary Importance – Sometimes used in place of OIC or OIC Ex

PQ

• PMV – Personal Motor Vehicle
• PO – Performance Objective

R

• RO – Range Officer
• RSO – Range Safety Officer
• RCAC – Royal Canadian Air Cadets
• RCACS – Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
• RCSU(P) – Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific) – the Canadian Forces unit responsible for providing support to the Canadian Cadet Organizations in BC

S

• Sgt – Sergeant – cadet NCO rank
• Sqn Comd – Squadron Commander – cadet rank – the Senior most cadet in the squadron assigned to the top parade position
• SupO – Supply Officer
• SWO – Squadron Warrant Officer – a parade position not a rank
• 2IC – Second In Charge – usually associated with exercises or activities

TUVW

• TrgO – Training officer
• Wing – refers to 808 Thunderbird Wing (top floor of LHQ) – Royal Canadian Air Force Association Wing Sponsor
• WO1 – Warrant officer first Class – top cadet NCO rank
• WO2 – Warrant Officer Second Class – NCO rank below WO1

WXYZ

• Zulu Time – Universal Time Coordinated (UTC) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)

The ACR is the most important event of the Air Cadet training year. As part of mandatory training, all cadets are required to attend in order to complete their training level, qualify for rank promotions, receive awards, and participate in summer training opportunities. The ACR also serves as a special occasion for cadets to proudly showcase the skills, discipline, and knowledge they have developed throughout the year. Families, friends, and distinguished guests are invited to attend and witness the accomplishments and growth of the cadets during this formal parade and awards ceremony. It is both a celebration of achievement and a milestone marking the successful completion of the training year.

The following list (below) outlines each award, how it was established within our Squadron, and the basic criteria used in selecting the recipient. Not all awards are presented each year.

Awards and Trophies for the 2024-2025 Training Year (presented at ACR May 29, 2025).

Top Level Cadet (Levels 1-5) – Presented to the Top Cadet in each level who shows the best attendance, appearance, deportment and proficiency in drill and other activities.

• Level One: AC Minhas
• Level Two: Cpl Zhou
• Level Three: FCpl Lander
• Level Four: Sgt Waugh
• Level Five: WO2 Bereck

Best First Year Band Musician “Herrington Trophy” – Recognizing a first-year band cadet who has made the most progress in instrument and drill, with consistent attendance at band practice and events.

• To: LAC Vroom

Most Valuable Band Musician – Presented to the cadet who has demonstrated exceptional band skills, excellent attendance, and strong teamwork.

• To: Cpl Zhou

Best Green Shot “Alex J. MacKay Memorial Trophy” – Presented to the Cadet who, in their first year of competition, has achieved the highest score in small bore or air rifle competition, who has best demonstrated the principles of sportsmanship and commitment, and who has made the greatest contribution to the rifle team.

• To: FCpl Finch

Cadet Marksman of Distinction – Awarded to the cadet who exemplifies sportsmanship, commitment, leadership, and teamwork in the marksmanship program.

• To: WO2 Lamb
• To: FCpl Finch

Most Improved Marksman – Awarded to the cadet who exemplifies commitment, sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership with the marksmanship program.

• To: LAC Horncastle

Most Valuable Biathlete – Presented to the cadets with the best race results while displaying sportsmanship and dedication to the biathlon team.

• To: FCpl Finch

Most Improved Biathlete – Awarded to the cadet who exemplifies commitment, sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership with the biathlon program.

• To: Cpl Ye

Best Overall in Flying Scholarship “FSGT Robert Dixon Memorial Trophy” for Top Gun – Presented to the Cadet with the highest mark on the scholarship exam.

• To: Sgt Waugh
• To: Sgt Mann

205 Sponsoring Committee Cadets Choice – Chosen by their peers, this award is given to the cadet who embodies qualities such as inspiration, self-confidence, respectfulness, and kindness. Formerly known as the 808 Wing RCAFA Ladies Auxiliary.

• To: WO2 Podritske

Best Junior NCO “Bain Memorial Trophy” – Presented to the Cpl or FCpl who displays emerging leadership and management skills, and valuable unit support.

• To: FCpl Joo

Best Senior NCO “Dino Trophy” – Presented to the Sgt or above who displays proficient leadership and management skills, and valuable unit support.

• To: WO2 Lamb

The Training Officers Award – for Exceptional Instruction – Presented to the instructor that is always prepared and eager with engaging, effective lessons.

• To: WO2 Loretan

The Commanding Officers Award – Most Improved Junior Cadet – Presented to cadets in levels 1, 2, and 3, who exemplify commitment and unit support while showing the most improvement in training & deportment.

• To: Cpl Tran, B

The Commanding Officers Award – Most Improved Senior Cadet – Presented to cadets in levels 4 and 5, who exemplify commitment and unit support while showing the most improvement in training & deportment.

• To: Sgt Mann

Eloquent Speaker – Displaying the most development in self-confidence and speaking skills.

• Not being awarded this year

HAM Radio – Certificate awarded to the cadet who achieved the highest mark achieved on the Amateur Radio Certificate exam.

• Not being awarded currently, still waiting for test results

STAFF & OTHER AWARDS

Special Long Service Medal – Presentation by Ms Grace Dean BCPC Wing Chair

• To: Gerrit Loeffen

Staff Member of the Year – presented to the staff member who displayed exemplary contribution to the squadron, and whose dedication went above and beyond to ensure this cadet program continued requiring ingenuity, creativity, and commitment to keep our youth engaged.

• To: CI George Ruscoff

CIC Officer of the Year – presented and chosen annually by the previous recipient.

• To: Capt James Mowry, CD

Attendance Recognition

Awards and Trophy presented at the Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR) June 2, 2025

Good attendance shows commitment and is a positive attribute which is also considered in determining Awards, Summer Camp opportunities and advancements! 

We have two levels of acknowledgements: Those with 85-95% of Mandatory class attendance and those with over 95%. 

• Congratulations to all the recipients who were issued pins at the Awards Parade on May 29, 2025.
• Special recognition for Cpl Podritske with 100% perfect attendance.

Elite Marksman – Presented to the Cadet who achieved the highest score in Air Rifle competition.

Presented by:   Capt David Ruel

• To: WO2 Lamb

Top Biathlete Award – Courtenay Biathlon Association – Presented to the top cadet based on race results for the past season.

Presented by:   CV Barabash, Civilian Volunteer, Biathlon Team

• To: LAC Horncastle

205 Collishaw Trophy – Presented to the Cadet displaying the greatest interest in aviation.  Exceptional participation in classroom discussions, flight training and/or ground school.  Donated by the Vancouver Island Military Museum.

Presented by: Maj (Ret’d) Rob Robinson CD, Vancouver Island Military Museum

• To: Cpl Croft

Golden Boot – awarded to the cadet that displayed the best deportment with emphasis on boots.

Presented by: Capt James Mowry, CD

• To: WO1 Moore

Squadron Leader Lew Davies Memorial Bursary – Provided by our sponsor, the 808 Thunderbird Wing Air Force Association – presented to a Cadet who will be attending post-secondary education in September 2025.     

Presented by: Ms. Alana Wollan, 808 Wing President

• To: WO1 Moore
• To: WO2 Lamb

The Best All-Round NCO “Branch 256 Royal Canadian Legion Trophy” – Presented to the FCpl or above who has demonstrated a balanced dedication to the squadron and the cadet program.

Presented by: Mr. George Molnar, Branch 256 RCL President

• To: WO2 Jenkin

Most Outstanding Cadet of the Year “Andrew Graham Muir/ Flight Lt. H.B. Walter (Bus) Matthews Award” – Presented to the Cadet who best fulfilled the role of the Air Cadet Movement (to learn, to serve, to advance) and who did the most for the welfare of their fellow cadets. A Senior cadet who is a proactive learner with a consistent high level of participation in all aspects of the cadet program to the highest standard with an ongoing effort to advance the Squadron. **This trophy is presented only to outstanding cadets and may not be presented each year.

Presented by: Mr. Gerrit Loeffen, Air Cadet League of Canada BC Provincial Committee Representative

• To: WO2 Bereck

LCol Doug Slowski Heart of Service Trophy – Presented to the AC to FCpl with extensive contribution in fundraising and supporting community events while exemplifying a positive attitude.

Presented by: LCol (Ret’d) Doug Slowski, Air Cadet League of Canada Vice President

• To: FCpl Joo

The Royal Canadian Legion Cadet Medal of Excellence – This medal is presented in recognition of individual endeavours in citizenship and for outstanding community involvement as well as loyalty and service to the Squadron.

Presented by: Mrs Vicki Jones, RCL Branch 257 President

• To: WO2 Podritske

Lord Strathcona Medal – The Strathcona Medal is granted in recognition of a high performance in physical and military training.  One Medal and a Certificate of Merit are awarded by the Strathcona Trust Provincial Committee to one deserving Cadet in each unit annually.  A Cadet is entitled to receive the medal only once.

Presented by: Assistant Commissioner Derek Moss, Canadian Coast Guard Western Region

• To: WO2 Bereck

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE AWARD WINNERS!

National policies have mandated that ALL communications between squadron staff and cadets and in particular the issuing of orders and instructions must be through Cadet 365. This means that Facebook and TEAMS can no longer be used for squadron communications. Most returning cadets are already active on Cadet 365, and staff will be assisting cadets with onboarding.

Cadet 365 is for authorized use only. The system is restricted and monitored. The following notice at the sign in must be understood and strictly adhered to. ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION SYSTEM IS RESTRICTED TO AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL: This information system is a DND/CAF resource intended for official purposes only. There shall be no assumption of privacy and users are subject to monitoring at any time.

How to access Cadet 365 sign in link here.  After initial onboarding follow instructions below.

• Cadets will receive an email from the Squadron Administration Officer that provides their Cadet365 username and temporary password.
• Cadets are required to go online to Cadet 365 Cadet Onboarding and follow the steps provided.
• Please note that onboarding requires the configuration of 2-step verification for access and sign-in.
• It is highly recommended to onboard with a computer and Smartphone together. However, if this method is not available to you, there are several detailed onboarding guides to help you depending on the device you are using. 
• Be prepared to change the temporary password to a password of your choice when prompted.
• If you have forgotten your password, you click “forgot password” to change it.
• The completion of the Cadet Cyber Awareness Course on Cadet 365 is mandatory for all cadets and squadron staff and civilian volunteers.

Cadet 365 IT Service Desk link Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers (CJCR) Group IT Support and Resource.

• For technical assistance, or to request a change to a known/expired password or to reset a forgotten password go to the CJCR Group IT Support and Resources Link provided. 
• For technical support call 1-855-252-8082. For requests send email to IT@Cadets.gc.ca
• IT Service Desk Hours – Monday to Friday (8am to 8pm), for all time zones.

The Cadet Program, including both Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers, offers youth an exciting opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork, and life skills through structured training, community involvement, and outdoor activities. Participants gain valuable experience, mentorship, and a sense of responsibility that prepares them for future challenges.

For more information about the Cadet Program, including details specific to Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Cadets, please visit the official program resources here.

For any inquiries, please contact the205 Collishaw Squadron Administration Officer directly.

Air Cadet Uniform

The Air Cadet Uniform is the official attire worn by members of an air cadet program. Proper care and wearing of the uniform to ensuring cadets maintain a neat and professional appearance at all times.

• Air Cadet Identification (Insignia, badges worn on uniforms, show the Cadet’s rank)
• Air Cadet Sleeve Insignia Placement (Left & Right Sleeve)
• Ceremonial Dress C1 (Whites) Instructions PDF
• Field Training Uniform (FTU) Guide PDF
• How to tie a Necktie – Windsor Knot PDF

Uniform Request Forms (Print out request forms, fill it out, and hand it in to Supply Officer)

A Uniform Request Form is used by air cadets to request new uniform items, replacements, or adjustments. Submitting the form properly ensures timely and accurate uniform distribution, supporting the cadet’s readiness and professional appearance.

• New Cadet Uniform Request Form PDF
• Outgrown Uniform Request Form PDF

You will be contacted when uniform supplies are ready for pickup. If you have any questions or need further information contact Supply Officer.

Cadets are expected to maintain their uniforms in excellent condition as a sign of respect and pride for the Squadron. While uniforms are provided free of charge, cadets are fully responsible for their care. This includes keeping uniforms clean and pressed, boots polished, and ensuring all badges and rank insignia are properly fastened.

All uniforms remain the property of 205 Collishaw Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Cadets, and must be returned upon a cadet’s release or graduation from the program.

Cadet Code of Conduct PDF Form.

The criteria and process for cadet rank promotions are governed by the Cadets Junior Canadian Rangers (CJCR) Group Order 5511-3 Cadet Promotions – Corps/Squadron (link below)

Promotions up to the rank of Sergeant are earned by meeting the requirements of each of the 4 levels of training prescribed by CJCR. For promotions to the senior ranks of Flight Sergeant (FSgt), Warrant Officer Second Class (WO2) and Warrant Officer First Class (WO1), positions must first be available and those who are qualified and interested must submit applications. An appointed Selection Board reviews the applications, interviews short-listed candidates, and makes recommendations to the Commanding Officer who has the final say and authority on all promotions.

• 5511-3 Cadet Promotions – Corps/Squadron
• Rank Insignia for Sea, Army and Air Cadets

The canteen, run by the Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC), operates every Thursday during break time. The SSC is a not-for-profit charity that supports the Air Cadet squadron. For more information on SSC here.

• Operating Hours: Second to third period break (20:00–20:25hrs) at the Local Headquarters (LHQ).
• Offerings: A variety of snacks and beverages are available for purchase.
• Canteen Card: Can be purchased at the LHQ with a maximum limit of $10. Personalized with the cadet’s name and usable only by the cardholder.

Purchase Rules: (3 Items Per Person Limit)

• BIG Gatorade and full-size chocolate bars $2
• Wafers and small chocolates (2 items) $1
• Everything else $1

The Air Cadet League was successful in implementing a program for the British Columbia Cadets whereby certain courses within the Cadet program will qualify for Educational Credits. These credits allow cadets to reduce the number of classes they must take in school, which in turn allows them to focus on their remaining studies and responsibilities within their squadron. For more information here.

Interested or have questions check with the Squadron Training Officer for qualifying courses. 

Cadets in Level 3 or higher are invited to attend Aviation Ground School. Civilian dress is required. This program is highly recommended for cadets planning to apply for the Glider Pilot Training Course (GPTC) or Power Pilot Training Course (PPTC), either this year or in the future.

Topics Covered:

• Navigation
• Theory of Flight
• Meteorology
• Air Law

This is an excellent opportunity to build a strong foundation in aviation and gain essential knowledge for piloting.

For more information or questions, please contact the Ground School Instructor.

The Lew Davies Bursary was created to assist Air Cadets pursuing post-secondary education. All applicants must be current and active 205 Collishaw Squadron Air Cadets with a minimum of four years as an air cadet. They must be planning on attending post-secondary studies at an accredited institution within twelve months of being notified of their successful application. For more information here.

• Gather materials: black Kiwi polish, soft cloth, water, toothbrush.
• Lay down newspaper to protect your workspace.
• Well ventilated room.

How to Hold the Cloth

• Wrap the cloth around your index and middle fingers.
• Twist the cloth tight at the back.
• Hold the excess cloth with the rest of your hand.

Step 1: Blacken the Welts: The welts are the stitching between the sole and the boot. Darkening them enhances the overall shine.

1. Dip a toothbrush into polish.
2. Scrub the welts like brushing teeth move back and forth around the entire boot.

Tip: Be thorough but gentle; avoid splattering polish on the leather.

Step 2: Base Coat: The base coat creates a smooth foundation.

1. Apply polish to the boot using your cloth.
2. Rub in smooth, straight motions.
3. Repeat until the boot is fully covered (no shine yet).
4. Let the base coat dry and harden up to one day.

Tip: A hardened base coat prevents streaks during the shine layers.

Step 3: Apply Layers: Layers bring the mirror-like shine. Less is more.

• Polish-to-water ratio: 1 part polish: 2 parts waters.
• Dampen cloth slightly to prevent scratches.

1. Put a small amount of polish on your cloth.
2. Slightly dampen the cloth with water on your finger.
3. Apply using small circles, keeping the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise).
   • Circles about 3 cm wide.
   • Moderate pressure (like using a laptop trackpad).
   • Focus on curved areas of the toe for better light reflection.

Tip: Apply thin layers; too much polish will dull the shine.

Step 4: Buffing: Buffing brings out the final shine.

1. Breathe hot air onto the boot so fog forms on the surface.
2. Shine the boot with your cloth.
3. Repeat until fog disappears too quickly to shine.
4. If the shine isn’t strong enough, return to Step 3 for more layers.

Tip: Keep cloth clean between buffing sessions to avoid streaks.

Cadet Summer Training Programs Overview:

• Purpose: Offers local and regional opportunities to enhance development and leadership, aligned with the Cadet Program’s objectives.
• Focus: Leadership skills, personal growth, and program-specific training.

Accessing Information:

1. Log in to Cadet365.
2. Navigate via:
   • Top Menu: SharePoint Site Directory → Publications → Summer Training
     OR
   • Dashboard: Scroll down → Click library icon → Summer Training → CTC Training – Air

Questions or Clarifications:

• Contact the Administration Officer directly for any inquiries regarding CTC camps.

Tag Days are fundraising events held every year. During these events, supervised cadets in uniform stand outside local businesses always with management’s permission asking for donations from the public. Donors receive a tag that reads “I Support Air Cadets.”

Tag Days are one of the Squadron Sponsoring Committee’s (SSC) key fundraisers and its largest source of funding. The money raised supports activities not funded by Cadets Canada, such as Familiarization Flying, Mess Dinners, band and biathlon equipment, insurance, and more.

Participation in Tag Days is highly encouraged for cadets. It’s also an excellent opportunity for cadets to engage with the community and promote the many benefits of the Air Cadet program.

Warning Orders and Joining Instructions are accessed thought Cadet 365. All cadets are required to use Cadet365 for all Cadet and Officer communication. 

Warning Order: A warning order is “a preliminary notice of an order or action which is to follow.” Warning orders are planning directives that describe the situation, allocate resources, and provide initial planning guidance and initiate mission planning.

• Officer in Charge – Cadet in Charge
• Start time – End time
• What to bring – What NOT to bring
• Where to go
• What cadet will learn
• What is expected of the cadet
• Who to contact in an emergency
• If applicable, maps, or any other info necessary for the cadet to have regarding the activity.

Joining Instructions: Joining Instructions are the official documents sent after a cadet is approved to attend an activity that is outside the squadron and sponsored by DND Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers (CJCR) such as Cadet Summer Training, cadet courses, or competitions.

They include the same key details as a Warning Order, like:

• Location and dates
• Travel and reporting times
• Dress and equipment required
• Conduct and expectations

What makes Joining Instructions different is that they also include a consent form:

• Parents/guardians sign to give permission for the cadet to attend
• Cadets sign to confirm they understand and agree to follow the instructions

For more information on What Cadets do.

Symbols Of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets link.