Kelowna cadets showed off to guests at the 2024 Cadet Review held June 9 at the Kelowna Curling Club.
The review recognized the hard work of cadets from both NLCC Admiral Stirling and RCSCC Grenville and gave a warm sendoff to those aging out.
Two cadets stood out among the group and received some of the highest awards in the country.
Having already received the highest honour at the Royal Canadian Legion Sea Cadet of the Year, it was no surprise more awards were presented to Chief Petty Officer First Class Soyoung Yoon.
During the ceremony, Yoon was given the Sea Cadet Medal of Excellence from the Navy League of Canada. This award is given to the top cadet in each division who shows leadership and demonstrates a thorough understanding of cadet training.
Chief Petty Officer Second Class Liam Calder was first called forward to receive the RCSCC Grenville Achievement in Sailing Award. The cadet was also given the bronze level of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, an award managed outside of cadets and is measured by service, skill, physical fitness and expedition.
One of the highest honours a cadet can receive was given to Calder, the Lord Strathcona Medal. As described by one of the presenting officers, Calder has demonstrated a "proficiency in physical fitness and leadership, as well as dedication to the program and their country."
Calder was selected alongside nine other cadets in Canada for an international exchange in Washington, D.C. and at the world's largest navy base in Virginia.
Following the presentation of awards, the drill teams displayed their skills for officers and parents. The Okanagan Cadet Marching Band closed out the ceremony with a performance of Adele's 'Skyfall'.
Learn more about the cadet programs in Kelowna by visiting nlccstirling.com for kids age 9-12 and kelownaseacadets.ca for kids age 12-18.
