Our Mission
1 West Montreal Squadron was founded on the 24th of September, 1941 as the first of many Royal Canadian Air Cadet squadrons.
The main purpose of its inception was to provide the Royal Canadian Air Force with pre-trained airmen in order to assist in the war effort overseas. Since then, the squadron and program as a whole have evolved into Canada's leading youth movement and providing Canadian youth with unique and valuable experiences.
Royal Canadian Air Cadets
Royal Canadian Air Cadets, along with the Army Cadets and Sea Cadets, form the Canadian Cadet Organizations. The program is completely free and is supported by various civilian organizations and the Canadian Armed Forces. Cadets at 1 West Montreal have the ability to pursue their interests in aviation, music, survival training, aerospace, sports and fitness as well as many other fields. We train at the Royal Montreal Regiment Armoury in Westmount, QC. All training and correspondence at our squadron is in English.
The Air Cadet program has three goals that drive all training and activities. These goals are
1. Develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership
2. Promote physical fitness
3. Stimulate an interest in the Canadian Armed Forces
“Many people think of cadets as preparation for a career in the military, but it is really about preparing for life; about developing skills, the qualities and the confidence that will allow these young people to prosper and contribute to the Canada of tomorrow.”
— Sen. Art Eggleton, Former Minister of National Defence
Facts about the Royal Canadian Air Cadets:
454 Squadrons and over 26,000 cadets across Canada
8 cadet ranks to progress through
Motto: "To Learn-To Serve-To Advance"
Patron: Her Excellency The Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada
Air Cadets are under no obligation to join the Canadian Forces.
There is no set cost to join!
Select cadets may participate in summer courses at training centres across Canada.
67% of commercial pilots began their careers as Air Cadet.
The program is administered by the Canadian Armed Forces, funded by the Department of National Defense, and supported by the civilian Air Cadet League of Canada.
Air Cadets receive training in subjects such as flying and gliding, survival skills, physical fitness, public speaking, citizenship, and precision drill.
Want to join 1 West Montreal Squadron? Click here.