676 Lorne Scots Army Cadets celebrate 50th Anniversary of the Army Cadet League of Canada with Review and Commemoration Ceremony
Georgetown's Col. Barber Armoury was brimful of army cadets and their supporters, parents and families on June 14. The occasion was 676 Lorne Scots Royal Army Cadet annual review held in conjunction with a celebration of 50 years of the Army Cadet League of Canada.
The 676 Lorne Scots Corps has a storied history in Halton Hills. The group was originally formed in 1916 as the Georgetown High School Cadet Corps. After a brief hiatus in 1968, it was reactivated as the Lorne Scots Royal Army Cadet Corps in 1973, about the time that the Army League of Canada was establishing itself on a national level.
After a march-past and general salute, the cadets were inspected by Reviewing Officer Major Ian Chen. One highlight of the program was the 12-cadet senior drill team that performed for about 200 guests. “They looked fantastic and created their own routine,” according to Commanding Officer Captain Cara Lacey.
Notes from the program cite Captain Lacey with rejuvenating the Drill Team which she took to multiple competitions. “She also coached the Biathlon Team for five years and in 2019, she celebrated with her team as three members competed at Canada’s National Competition!”
Many former cadets were also in the parade audience. Kevin Harrison started out as a boy drummer with the Lorne Scots Pipe Band when he was just 10 years old and was the second cadet to join the corps.
Awards were also handed out for marksmanship, biathlon, leadership and service. Sgt C. Dal Dosso was given the Capt K. G. Pierre Memorial Award for Junior Leadership, while MWO N. Peredery, RSM, was presented with Eagle Landscaping Senior Leadership Award.
676 Lorne Scots serves as a hub for youth 12-18 interested in outdoor activities. Cadets come from all over the surrounding region including Acton, Erin, Caledon and Brampton. “Since we're the only army unit in this area, they land on our doorstep. We're a very active unit. Most recently we did mountain biking and canoeing at Kelso. We also recently took part in joint exercises with four Air Cadet Squadrons,” added Captain Lacey.
“They start out as shy 12-year-olds and in a few years, they're running the show. The skills they learn will stick with them for life,” she said.
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