Glossary
ACRONYMS
ACR -- Annual Ceremonial Review
AdmO -- Administration Officer
AED -- Automated external defibrillator
CADPAT -- Canadian Disruptive Pattern
CAF -- Canadian Armed Forces
CANCDTGEN -- Canadian Cadet General Message
CANFORGEN -- Canadian Forces General Message
CATO -- Cadet Administration and Training Orders
CD -- The Canadian Forces’ Decoration
Cdt -- Cadet
CER -- Combat Engineer Regiment
CI -- Civilian Instructor
CIC -- Cadet Instructors Cadre (Officer)
CME -- Canadian Military Engineers
CO -- Commanding Officer
Cpl -- Corporal
CPR -- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
CSM -- Company Sergeant Major
CTC -- Cadet Training Centre
CWO -- Chief Warrant Officer
CV -- Civilian Volunteer
EC -- Expedition Centre
EX -- Exercise
FTU -- Field Training Uniform (Combats)
FTX -- Field Training Exercise
IG -- Instructional Guides
JCR -- Junior Canadian Rangers
MCpl -- Master Corporal
MRE -- Meal Ready to Eat
MWO -- Master Warrant Officer
Natl CJCR Sp Gp -- National Cadet and Junior Canadian Ranger Support Group
OSLA -- Ottawa St-Lawrence Area
PT -- Physical Training
QSP -- Qualification Standard and Plan
RCACC -- Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps
RCE -- Corps of Royal Canadian Engineers
RCSU(C) -- Regional Cadet Support Unit (Central)
RSM -- Regimental Sergeant Major
RTU -- Return to Unit
Sgt -- Sergeant
Spr -- Sapper
SSM -- Squadron Sergeant Major
SupO -- Supply Officer
TrgO -- Training Officer
WO -- Warrant Officer
COMMON TERMS
Administration Officer
A CIC or other commissioned officer responsible for all of the administrative matters in a Corps such as enrolling new Cadets, maintaining Cadet records, requesting support from regional headquarters and Cadet training camps, among many other responsibilities.
Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR)
The ACR is an important, mandatory training event for the Army Cadet training year. This mandatory event is an opportunity for Cadets to display what they have learned over the past training year to their families and assembled guests. It is also the opportunity for the Corps to honour deserving Cadets by presenting them with various awards. Cadets must attend this event in order to complete their training level, receive any related rank promotion, and participate in summer training. Only the Commanding Officer (CO) is authorized to excuse Cadets
CD
The Canadian Forces’ Decoration or “CD” Decoration is awarded to officers and Non-Commissioned Members of the Canadian Forces who have completed twelve years of service. The decoration is awarded to all ranks, who have a good record of conduct.
Chain of Command
Chain of command is a concept applied only to Cadets and Cadet Corps staff. In both a cadet and military context, the chain of command is the line of authority and responsibility along which orders are passed within a Cadet Corps and between different Cadet Corps. Orders are transmitted down the chain of command, from a higher-ranked Officer or Cadet, such as a CIC Officer to a lower-ranked CIC Officer or Cadet, or from a senior Cadet NCO to a lower-ranked Cadet. The person receiving the order either executes the order personally or transmits it down the chain as appropriate, until it is received by those expected to execute it. In general, military personnel and cadets give orders only to those directly below them in the chain of command and receive orders only from those directly above them. Any Cadet who has difficulty executing a duty or order and appeals for relief directly to a Cadet or CIC Officer above his immediate commander in the chain of command is likely to be reprimanded for not observing the chain of command.
The normal chain of command does not apply if a Cadet or staff member has experienced discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment, or some other form of inappropriate behaviour. In those instances, Cadets and staff should raise their concerns directly with the CO without following the chain of command.
Chain of Command does not apply to parents. Parents are always welcome to talk to the Commanding Officer or any staff member at any time.
Chimo
(CHEE-moh) The CME/RCE greeting or toast. This expression is also often used as a closing on correspondence between engineers. The word “chimo” is derived from the Inuktitut greeting: saimo (saimu) that means “hello,” “goodbye,” “peace be with you,” and similar sentiments. This salutation was used in the Ungava region of northern Quebec and shares the same derivation as Fort Chimo (today Kuujjuaq) on Ungava Bay in northern Quebec. The current spelling and pronunciation is based on a Caucasian adaptation of the native language. On April 1, 1946, the Canadian Army assumed responsibility for the portions of the Alaska Highway that lay with Canadian boundaries. This section of the Highway was renamed the “Northwest Highway System” and the responsibility for maintenance was given to the Royal Canadian Engineers for the next twenty years. The soldiers of the CME/RCE adopted the greeting of “Chimo” and in 1973 it became the cheer of the CME.
CO's parade
The CO’s parade is a formal military ceremony. Cadets come in C1 dress and assemble for inspection and display by the Commanding Officer of the Cadet Corps. CO's parades are also used to announce promotions, awards, and other important events.
Combats
Field Training Uniform
Commanding Officer
In Cadet Corps, the Commanding Officer is the CIC officer appointed to lead the Cadet Corps.
Company Sergeant Major
In a Cadet Corps the CSM position is a senior appointment usually awarded to a Master Warrant Officer
Connaught
Cadet Training Centre located in Kanata (ON).
Deputy Commanding Officer
In Cadet Corps the Deputy Commanding Officer is a CIC officer appointed to the second-in-command position and reports to the Corps Commanding Officer (CO)
Field Training Exercise
Three times during the training year Army Cadets head into the bush for training. Field training teaches Cadets how to be comfortable living, learning and having fun in the great outdoors. It teaches them survival skills, camping, how to use camp equipment and tools andhow to be part of a group. Cadets test their endurance and learn how to read maps and navigate in the woods. An FTX can also be used to introduce other activities such as abseiling, obstacle course, archery, and marksmanship. One FTX will take place during the winter and Cadets learn how to remain safe and comfortable when training in the cold weather, winter survival techniques, snow shoeing, fire starting and sleeping in the cold.
Full Dress Uniform
Dress is Cadet issued shirt, pants, beret, tie, tunic and Parade boots.
Mess Dinner
A Cadet Mess Dinner is a formal dinner usually held in a military mess hall, following strict mess dinner etiquette and formal mess kit, C1 for Cadets. During the 18th century, the British Army incorporated the practice of formal dining into their regimental mess system. The Mess Dinner became a tradition in all British regiments and the Canadian military soon followed. Today, Mess Dinners provide an opportunity for Cadets, CIC officers, CI and CV staff members to meet on a formal but friendly occasion, allowing the CO or his guests to address the members as a group. By custom and tradition a Mess Dinner is considered to be a “parade” and as such, attendance is compulsory except for Cadets and members excused by the CO.
Mess Dress Uniform
Full Dress Uniform with medals.
Optional Training
Optional training is designed to supplement the mandatory Army Cadet program with special topics that may or may not be of interest to all Cadets. Cadets must have good attendance to participate in optional training. Should dates or other conflicts exist within Corps training, mandatory training is given priority over optional training. Some examples of optional training are the various teams such as Band, Drill, Markmanship and Biathon.
Regimental Sergeant Major
In a Cadet Corps the is an appointment usually reserved for the Chief Warrant Officer. The RSM has the main parade position.
Routine Orders
Routing orders could loosely be described as a unit’s newsletter. They come out weekly and contain details on upcoming training nights or events, waht uniform Cadets are expected to wear that week and any other information that needs to be shared. The Routine Orders for 3018 are posted on the pinned post on our Facebook page.
Short Order Dress
Dress is Cadet issued shirt, pants, beret, and Parade boots. No tie or tunic.
Star Level Program
The Star Level Program is the main mandatory training program used by all Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps in Canada. This program is mandated by the Department of National Defence (DND), through the Directorate of Cadets & Junior Rangers. Cadets are taught a variety of subjects that include citizenship, physical fitness, healthy living, drill, marksmanship, map and compass, outdoor survival, eco-friendly camping and military history and traditions.
The Star Level Program is composed of five levels and for the following ideal age groups:
- Green Star (Level 1) – typically for 12- or 13-year olds.
- Red Star (Level 2) – typically for 13- or 14-year olds.
- Silver Star (Level 3) – typically for 14- or 15-year olds.
- Gold Star (Level 4) – typically for 15- or 16-year olds.
- Master Cadet (Level 5) (New) – typically for 16-year old and older Cadets.
If a new recruit is older than the normal age for his/her Star Level, consideration is made to place him/her in a higher level. Cadets who enroll in the Corps who are older than 14-years at time of entry may be placed in the red or silver star program based on their age and maturity. They still have to meet all the requirements for the green and/or red star programs. At no time is a Cadet entered directly into Gold Star.
Supply Officer
CIC officer responsible for ordering, stocking and issuing all the DND kit to Cadets in the Corps.
Tagging
This is the main fundraising activity for our Cadet Corps. There are two “tagging” weekends each year, one in October and one in March. Cadets are paired up and assigned stores in the local area. Cadets are welcomed to stand near the entrance where they are visible to store patrons. Cadets provide a “tag” to anyone who makes a donation.
Training Officer
CIC officer responsible for developing and executing the annual training plan for all the star levels, Corps Cadets are currently enrolled in
FAQs
Recruitment
WHO CAN JOIN ARMY CADETS?
Any Canadian youth aged 12-19 can join the cadet program.
I TURN 12 IN OCTOBER, CAN I STILL JOIN IN SEPTEMBER?
You must be 12 years old. If you turn 12 after the start of the training year, you can join us after your birthday. We accept new recruits all year long however, cadets who join us after the end of January may not be eligible for summer training opportunities.
WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITIONS?
Any medical, physical or mental conditions must be disclosed by the cadet’s parent/guardian. While there is no minimum standard of medical fitness established for membership in a corps, there are minimum medical fitness standards for summer training and exchange programmes. You will be informed if your medical condition makes you ineligible to attend summer training.
DOES BECOMING A CADET MEAN I AM IN THE MILITARY?
No. The Cadet program fosters a better understanding of the Canadian Armed Forces, but cadets are not in the military.
AM I REQUIRED TO JOIN THE CANADIAN ARMED FORCES AFTER CADETS?
There is no obligation to join the Armed Forces. Of course, some cadets might choose to go onward to a military career, but it is not required. Cadets is above-all a leadership program for Canadian youth Cadets and you will learn life skills that you will take with you on whatever path your choose.
Costs/Fees
I’VE LOOKED EVERYWHERE AND I CAN’T FIND ANYTHING ON THE COST? HOW MUCH ARE REGISTRATION AND UNIFORM FEES?
Nothing. That’s right…cadets is free-of charge. The program is funded by the Department of National Defense (in partnership with the Army Cadet League of Canada). The cost of uniforms, along with most travel expenses, food, lodging, and training is assumed by DND. In order to allow for some extra program enhancements (training location, activities, training aids, etc.) the Support Committee coordinates additional local fundraising. Cadet participation in these fundraising activities is mandatory and cadets can only be excused by the CO.
IF THE PROGRAM IS FUNDED BY DND, WHY DO YOU NEED TO FUNDRAISE?
While the majority of the costs are covered by DND/Army Cadet League, not everything is. We fundraise in order to help cover costs of things such as:
- Meals and snacks during optional activities, ACR;
- Mess dinners;
- Optional activities such as movie nights and the year-end trips;
- Training equipment for various teams;
- Sports equipment;
- Permits for training locations;
- Office supplies;
- Website domains and hosting;
- Other items in our yearly budget.
Training
WHAT DO ARMY CADETS DO?
Army cadets participate in a variety of activities including leadership, citizenship and more adventurous activities. There is a focus on military skills including drill, bushcraft, marksmanship and engineering skills. The program also provides a basic understanding of the Canadian military structure and working environment.
HOW OFTEN DO CADETS MEET?
Cadets train once a week from September until June. There are opportunities for additional training during the week for activities such as marksmanship, band and drill. These may take place either during the week or on the weekends. Check out our training calendar for details.
WHAT IS SUMMER TRAINING?
Cadets have the opportunity to attend summer training at various Cadet Training Centres across the country. Summer training is anywhere between 1 and 6 weeks during summer break. First and second year cadets will normally attend local day training at a Cadet Activity Program, while cadets in third year and up can specialize in different areas of training such as music, marksmanship, leadership, fitness and sports, etc. on three week courses at cadet training centres across Canada.
IS SUMMER TRAINING GUARANTEED?
No. Cadets interested in summer training must submit an application but not every cadet will get an offer of participation. Each corps is allotted a certain number of spots for each course. We will however, attempt to get as many cadets to camp as we can. Offers of participation sometimes come in sporadically so not everyone will get their offers at the same time. Some offers may come in as late as two days into a course, if there are cadets who do not show up or who are sent home for medical reasons on arrival.
CAN I GET HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS FOR BEING A CADET?
Yes! Cadets who are high school students in Ontario taking at least one credit course can receive credit for their training at the corps during the training year, and those who attend a summer course in Ontario can also receive academic credits through the cadet co-op program.
I HEARD THAT YOU GET PAID TO BE A CADET. IS THIS TRUE?
No, but also…yes.
Cadets are not paid for regular training that takes place September – June. Cadets who are invited to attend summer training at one of the Cadet Training Centres (CTCs) receive a training bonus at the end of the summer ($10/day up to $60/week). In addition, senior cadets who return to the CTC as staff cadets (like camp counsellors) are paid a daily wage. Most staff cadets are 16-18 years of age and they make a pretty good salary for the summer.
THIS IS ARMY CADETS…DOES THAT MEAN I GET TO SHOOT GUNS?
After being properly training and safety precautions and handling procedures, and proving that you are responsible, you can participate in the marksman training activities. You will even have the opportunity to be selected to participate on the marksmanship team and represent our corps in competitions. Cadets use air rifles a the unit atnd are supervised at all times by the Range Safety Officer (RSO), senior cadets and coaches. Biathlon teams use the 22 cal Anshutz rifle, and older cadets also have an opportunity each year to shoot the C7A2 automatic rifle used by the Canadian military.
ARE PEOPLE GOING TO BE BOSSING ME AROUND?
You will not be “bossed around” but there will be senior cadets and Officers that are in charge of you. You will be guided by them and are expected to follow instructions provided by them. As you progress through the program, you will start to take on more leadership roles and one day, you may even have a troop of your own to guide and teach.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAINING THE CADETS?
Officers of the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) are mainly responsible for the training and supervision of cadets. These are members of the Canadian Forces reserve force who have been trained to deliver the cadet program. They have regular civilian jobs and work with cadets part-time for which they are paid 25 days a year. This typically covers training nights and the three FTXs, The officer staff put in many hours on a volunteer basis to keep optional activities running.
I’M REALLY SHY…WILL I FIT IN AND MAKE FRIENDS?
Absolutely! It doesn’t matter if you are shy or outgoing, you will meet many new people and who knows…some of them might become really close friends. Cadets are divided into Star Levels (Green, Red, Gold and Silver). Each level attends all their classes and training together, so you will get to know the cadets in your star level quite well. Joining one of the teams such as drill, band or marksmanship is another great way to get know some of your fellow cadets. If you are worried about making friends…register with one of your friends!
DO WE GET TO TRAVEL?
This depends greatly on your level of involvement. The corps will organize some activities and training which may take place in other parts of the city such as Kanata. Some teams may have to travel for competitions and some summer training may occur outside of the Ottawa area. You may be eligible to apply for an overseas exchange with 20-30 cadets from all over Canada!
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET HURT DURING TRAINING OR AN ACTIVITY?
Many of our instructors and some of our cadets are first-aid qualified. In the unlikely event that a cadet gets injured, there are policies in place to make sure they get the proper treatment.
Uniform
HOW DO I GET A UNIFORM?
Cadets will be issued two uniforms – a dress uniform and a field training uniform (FTUs or “combats”). You will receive a measurement sheet to ensure proper sizing. Both uniforms are provided at no cost to you and MUST be returned when you leave the program. To request a new uniform, please complete this Google form and see the Supply Officer on training night.
if you don't have a uniform yet, you can wear black pants and a white button-down shirt to training.
Use this form to request your uniform.
MY SHIRT/PANTS/BOOTS DON’T FIT. WHAT DO I DO?
As cadets grow, it is expected that their uniform pieces will need to be replaced. If you need new pieces, please complete this Google form. You will be required to clean the pieces being replaced and bring them to the Supply Officer on the next training night. If you are replacing your tunic, you will need to remove all badges prior to returning the old tunic and sew all the badges onto your new tunic.
Use this form to request an exchange.
Parents
WHAT’S EXPECTED OF ME AS A PARENT?
Parents are expected to:
- Bring cadets to weekly training and stay on-site until an Officer has arrived;
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to pick up cadets from training activities. This will allow parents to hear announcements and ensure that cadets are pick up on time;
- Attend CO’s Parades and the Annual Ceremonial Review to show support for your cadet;
- Help with activities, when needed;
- Help your cadet learn to take care of their uniform;
- Encourage your cadet to follow their “chain-of-command”;
- Encourage your cadet to use the Facebook page (accessible without a Facebook account) and the website as a resource for information;
HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD BE SUCCESSFUL IN CADETS?
The best thing you can do is to provide support and encouragement. Cadets is a leadership program and teaches our kids to take responsibility. Caring for the uniform is their job – not yours. Teach them to wash, dry and iron their uniform but don’t do it for them. Show them how to access the webpage and the Facebook page to get information, but don’t do it for them. When you get the inevitable question “What time do I have to be at XYZ activity?” help them to look for the answer themselves, even if you already know it. If your cadet is running into difficulties during training, encourage them to follow their chain-of-command to help resolve the issue. This doesn’t mean don’t ever talk to anyone but do let your child try to resolve their own problems before getting involved yourselves. Encourage your child to take responsibility his/her cadet career and be there to cheer them on and celebrate all the victories, no matter how big or small.
I CAN’T COMMIT TO JOINING THE SUPPORT COMMITTEE. HOW ELSE CAN I HELP?
Life is busy. We are parents, just like you, and we understand how crazy life with kids can be. You don’t have to join the Support Committee to help out. We are happy to have any assistance from parents or guardians or grandparents or uncles or aunts or…
Be on the lookout for opportunities to volunteer your time…even if it is only an hour! We always need help driving Cadets to fundraising activities, organizing and preparing for activities, handing out meals, etc. If you have any special skills, such as building webpages, graphic design, marketing etc. we may be able to put those to good use as well! Any and all support is greatly appreciated not only by the Committee but also by the Officers and cadets.
I’D LIKE TO TALK TO SOMEONE IN CHARGE. WHO DO I CONTACT?
We are committee to providing a program where cadets enjoy themselves and have fun. While we encourage cadets to follow their chain-of-command to resolve any issues, open communication between parents and the corps is important. If at any time you have questions or concerns, send us an email or visit us in person during training nights. We are happy to set up an appointment and discuss any particular concerns.