259 Panther Air Cadet Squadron
Perseverance, Initiative, and Courage
Proudly Serving Penticton, BC, and Surrounding Area
Our Programs
At the 259 Squadron, we strive to provide the most engaging and inspiring program to our youth. As part of the Air Cadet League of Canada, we provide the guidance and opportunities for youth to succeed in the real world. By developing self confidence with leadership, discipline, and management skills, our cadets show themselves, our communities, and our country the type leaders they will be!
REGULAR TRAINING:
On our regular parade nights, our cadets go through interactive lessons to boost their skills in leadership and communication, aviation, general cadet knowledge, citizenship, and other technical skills. This is where the bulk of their training comes from.
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AVIATION TRAINING​
A focus is on developing aviation and air nautical skills to help cadets pursue careers in the aviation field. Throughout the year, cadets have opportunities to participate in flying gliders and familiarization flying. Cadets can obtain their Powered and Glider Pilot's License through our Flying Scholarships.
DRILL TEAM / FLAG PARTY
Team work, discipline skills, coordination, choreography are some of the exciting things Cadets will learn. Participation in the Drill Team will improve movements executed in flight or drill practice. It is a distinct honour to be selected as a flag bearer in a Squadron flag party.
SUMMER TRAINING
The cadets can go develop their skills in courses dedicated to helping our youth grow and develop into the leaders of tomorrow. These diverse courses range from 2-week beginner courses, to 3-week intermediate courses, and then to 6-week senior courses.
PHYSICAL FITNESS
Throughout the year our cadets take part in physical fitness activities such as planned swimming or gym nights.
MARKSMANSHIP / RANGE
We provide cadets with the opportunity to learn basic marksmanship and range safety. Selected cadets compete in regional competitions
BAND
During Sunday activities Cadets have the opportunity to learn and practice a variety of musical instruments.
Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR)
This is the most important event of the Air Cadet training year! This is a mandatory event for every cadet and an opportunity for cadets to showcase their hard work throughout the year to friends, family and guests.
LEADERSHIP
On our regular parade nights, our cadets go through interactive lessons to boost their skills in leadership and communication, aviation, general cadet knowledge, citizenship, and other technical skills. This is where the bulk of their training comes from.
FIELD TRAINING (FTX)
Field Training Exercises (FTX) are typically held twice per training year (Fall and Spring). A cadet must participate in at least one FTX each training year to complete their level requirement. Cadets depart on Friday evening and return on Sunday Afternoon (transportation is provided).
FTX weekends are an opportunity for “hands-on” practice of the skills learned on in regular training. On these exercises we teach them how to build a fire and shelter, and gather food and water. Additionally, we give them the skills to signal for help, perform map and compass, and train their endurance through hiking.
First Aid
We offer optional First-Aid training for all cadets wanting to achieve their Emergency First-Aid or Standard First-Aid qualifications. Additionally, our squadron offers additional training through both our Junior and Senior First-Aid teams. These teams test their problem-solving and first-aid skills
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Cadets are invited and encouraged to participate in community service activities throughout the year. In collaboration with our partner Royal Canadian Legion Branch, cadets assist with annual poppy sales. Our Cadets take part in Remembrance Day parades and services in Penticton, Naramata and Okanagan Falls.
EFFECTIVE SPEAKING
To provide an opportunity for Air Cadets to increase their self-confidence; and increase their ability to reason, organize and express ideas.