Officer Cadets past and present attend annual RMCC Reunion Weekend

Photo credit: Karen Thomson

Another batch of first-year cadets officially became part of the Royal Military College of Canada (RMCC) at this year’s Annual Reunion Weekend. Held from Sept. 23 to Sept. 25, Annual Reunion Weekend was comprised of several events for both past and present cadets to enjoy.

“Officer Cadets past and present will unite at the Royal Military College of Canada (RMCC) September 23-25, 2016 for the annual Reunion Weekend. Activities include the First Year Orientation Program (FYOP) Obstacle Course and badging parade, three inductions onto the Wall of Honour, and a visit by Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen in celebration of the 25th anniversary of RMCC’s Space Science program,” stated an official press release from the RMCC.

The weekend started out on Friday, Sept. 23 with the First Year Orientation Program Obstacle Course that marks the official entry of the cadets into the Cadet Wing. Cadets from 12 Squadrons must complete 12 challenging obstacles. Each Squadron is present to cheer on their first-year cadets. After completion of the course, cadets are presented with commemorative coins by former cadets and members of the Old Brigade, former cadets who entered the College at least 50 years ago.

The following day, cadets gathered for the Badging Parade that marks the end of the six-week First Year Orientation Program. Cadets receive their cap-badges from members of the Old Brigade and cadets are recognized for leadership, academics and athletics. The Badging Parade is the official welcoming of first-year cadets into their Squadrons. The cadets can now begin their academic careers at the College.

Later that day is the Wall of Honour Ceremony that recognizes ex-cadets and other who have made notable contributions to the country. This year’s honourees were Hon. Col. James William Leech, Chancellor of Queen’s University; the late Lt.Gen. Guy Granville Simmonds, Companion of the Order of Canada; and the late Honorary Col. the Honourable Joseph Gilles Lamontagne, recognized for his exceptional political contributions and devotion to his community. Their names will join the existing 24 plaques part of the Wall of Honour.

Also on Sept. 24, the 25th anniversary of RMCC Space Science was celebrated with a tour of the Space Science facility by department head Dr. Gregg Wade. Also, present for the tour was RMCC graduate and Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hanson.

The 2016 Reunion Weekend concluded on Sunday, Sept. 25 with the Memorial Arch Ceremony that honours cadets who died in service.