100th CIC - Recognition Message
1. I want to let all within Prairie Region know about the outstanding recognition provided to CIC Officers at the 100th Anniversary Celebrations in Ottawa last week.
2. Attached below are remarks from 2 x MPs in the House of Commons on Thu 30 Apr. I did not witness this as I was attending the CSTC CO Conf in Ottawa, but LCol Tom McGrath (the National Branch Advisory Council Chair) and LCol Lyle Johnson (the Regional Advisory Council Chair) were in attendance, along with CIC reps from across the country. They noted that after the remarks from the MPs, the entire House of Commons rose to a standing ovation in recognition of all that the CIC (and its predecessors) have done for developing Canada's youth over the past 100 years. Having members from all parties unanimously rising for an event like this is a rare occurrence, and a symbol of the very strong support the CIC enjoys at the highest level of government.
3. On Fri 1 May at 0900 in the main concourse at NDHQ, I had the pleasure, along with all DCdts staff, other Regional COs, CSTC COs, and a variety of other CIC reps and Cadets from across the country, to observe the unveiling of the CIC Flag and the presentation of several CIC Lifetime Achievement Awards. MGen Tabbenor (C Res & Cdts), the Hon Peter McKay (Minister of National Defence), and General Natyncyzk (Chief of the Defence Staff) all spoke very eloquently on the importance of the work done by CIC Officers in building a better Canada, one cadet at a time. The MND was in Nova Scotia the day before. He took an early morning flight to Ottawa on Fri for the sole purpose of addressing, honouring, and thanking the CIC at the start of the 100th Anniversary Celebrations. He returned to his home riding in Nova Scotia shortly after this event. My words can't describe the emotion and sincerity expressed by the highest leaders within the Department and the CF for what you do as CIC Officers. The presentations of the CIC Lifetime Achievement Awards and the unveiling of the flag had many attendees in tears. I wish all of you could have been there to witness this powerful and truly memorable event. There should be no doubt in anyone's mind on the value placed on your work by the people of Canada.
4. The CIC Centennial Celebrations will run from 1 May 2009 to 31 Mar 2010. LCol Johnson, as the RAC Chair, has oversight for celebration events within Prairie Region. I encourage all Prairie Region CIC Officers at the Corps and Squadron level, at the CSTC level, at the sailing, expedition, and gliding centres, and at the > RCSU to join in this celebration by designing and implementing creative and fun-filled events that honour the proud history and many contributions of the CIC. Here's to the next 100!
Michael Milligan
Lieutenant-Colonel / Commanding Officer /
Regional Cadet Support Unit (Prairie) /
PO Box 17000 Stn Forces / Winnipeg MB R3J 3Y5
Telephone | 204-833-2500 ext 5750, Facsimile | 204-833-2583
Government of Canada |
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All,
In the text below you will find the statements read in the House of Commons on 30 April 2009 by Mr. Laurie Hawn, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, and Mr Scott Andrews, MP. These statements in support of the CIC recognized the start of CIC Centennial celebrations - a proud moment for all CIC officers. Video clips will follow under separate cover through your PA staff.
40th PARLIAMENT, 2nd SESSION
EDITED HANSARD • NUMBER 049
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Mr. Laurie Hawn (Edmonton Centre, CPC): Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Canadian Forces Cadet Instructor Cadre and its celebration of 100 years of service.
In its early days, the Cadet Instructor Cadre was mostly made up of male public school teachers who led their students through drill exercises and physical training at a number of schools across Canada. Since then, this group has grown into one of the most diverse branches of the Canada Forces and its officers represent the full spectrum of Canadian society.
Today, approximately 7,500 cadet instructors lead over 58,000 of Canada's youth in more than 1,100 communities across Canada. They are our friends, our family and our neighbours.
Cadet instructors are part-time members of the Canadian Forces who give their time and energy as they spend their weekends, evenings and summers with our youth.
The Cadet Instructor Cadre has much to be proud of. On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to thank this exceptional group for their hard work and dedication.