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 (cadet parade position, not a rank)
• ALP – Advanced Leadership Program
• A/TrgO – Assistant Training Officer

B

• BCPC – BC Provincial Committee
• BZ – Bravo Zulu (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 – 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 Defence
• Dress – Clothing type worn by cadets (civilian, summer, ceremonial, combat, full dress)
• 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 (parade group: Band, Arrow, Banshee)
• Flt Comd – Flight Commander (cadet parade position, not a rank)
• Flt Sgt – Flight Sergeant (cadet parade position, not a rank)
• FTX – Field Training Exercise

G

• GMT – Greenwich Mean Time

H

• HQ – Headquarters
• Hrs – Hours (e.g., 1400hrs = 2pm)

IJKL

• Lt – Lieutenant (officer rank)
• 2Lt – Second Lieutenant (officer rank)
• LHQ – Local Headquarters (Squadron office)
• LAC – Leading Air Cadet (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 officer rank)
• OIC – Officer in Charge (officer responsible for an event)
• OPI – Office of Primary Importance (sometimes replaces 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) – provides support to Canadian Cadet Organizations in BC

S

• Sgt – Sergeant (cadet NCO rank)
• Sqn Comd – Squadron Commander (senior cadet parade position)
• SupO – Supply Officer
• SWO – Squadron Warrant Officer (parade position, not a rank)
• 2IC – Second In Charge (used in exercises/activities)

TUVW

• TrgO – Training Officer
• Wing – 808 Thunderbird Wing (top floor of LHQ; RCAF Association Wing Sponsor)
• WO1 – Warrant Officer First Class (top cadet NCO rank)
• WO2 – Warrant Officer Second Class (cadet NCO rank below WO1)

WXYZ

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

Promotion to higher levels and ranks occurs once a cadet meets nationally prescribed standards. These criteria ensure equal opportunity for advancement, provided the cadet has completed required training, developed the necessary skills or qualifications, and that a suitable position is available at the desired rank.

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).

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

A complete list of awards and their selection criteria is available PDF list here. Recipients will be announced at the Awards and Promotions Parade and the Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR), both of which are held in June.

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. 

This event is both a celebration of achievement and a milestone marking the successful completion of the training year. The ACR is held at the end of the training year in June.

Cadet 365 is the official online communication and collaboration system used by the Canadian Cadet Organizations (CCO). It’s built on Microsoft Office 365, but configured specifically for cadets and staff across Canada.

⇒CADET 365 SIGN IN LINK⇐

Cadet 365 provides each cadet with an official Outlook email account (@cdt.cadets.gc.ca) and access to squadron specific channels on Microsoft Teams. Outlook and Teams are are the primary communication platforms for authorized cadet activities. Additional apps include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneDrive.

Cadet 365 is the place to go for:

• Announcements and training information
• Monthly Routine Orders (MROs)
• Exercise and Event Warning Orders and Joining Instructions
• Summer training course applications
• Communication between cadets and staff
• Shared documents and resources.

Cadet365 Cadet Onboarding

Go to the Government of Canada Cadet365 Cadet Onboarding page and follow the detailed instructions. You may find it helpful to download or print the PDF or text versions of the instructions before you start. ALL cadets, staff and civilian volunteers must complete the Cadet Cyber Awareness Course found in Cadet365.

Note: It is strongly recommended to do the initial onboarding with a computer and a smartphone. This makes the 2-step verification setup much easier.

Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers (CJCR) Group IT Support and Resources CJCR IT Service Desk link.

• 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 questions, please contact the 205 Collishaw Squadron Administration Officer.

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.

Cadet Summer Training for Cadets 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 → Cadet Training Centres (CTC) Training – Air

Questions or Clarifications:

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

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 boot.

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.

Tag Days are fundraising events where supervised cadets, in uniform, stand outside local businesses always with management’s permission requesting donations from the general public. In return, donors are given a tag that reads, “I Support Air Cadets.”

Tag Days are one of the squadron’s key fundraisers and represent the Squadron Sponsoring Committee’s (SSC) largest source of funding. The funds raised help cover activities and resources not supported by Cadets Canada, including Familiarization Flying, Mess Dinners, band and biathlon equipment, insurance, and more.

Cadets are highly encouraged to participate in this important fundraiser. It’s also an excellent opportunity for them to interact with the public and showcase 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.