Twenty Royal Canadian Air Cadets, members of 902 Nighthawk Squadron, participated in an aircrew survival exercise on Dec. 4 to 6.
The exercise took place at Camp Boyle, a Scouts Canada facility located near Summerland.
As part of the mandatory training program, cadets were given instruction on how to build shelters, start a fire, construct ground to air signals and many other important survival skills.
In addition to survival training, the cadets were surprised by a special guest during the exercise. Eclipse Helicopters Ltd., based out of the Penticton Regional Airport, donated the use of an AStar 350-BA helicopter to give the cadets a briefing on helicopter use during search and rescue operations.
After a thorough safety briefing each cadet was taken flying in the AStar to survey the local terrain and spot a pre-fabricated signal fire.
Survival exercises are just one aspect of the Air Cadet training program. The Royal Canadian Air Cadets is a national program for youth aged 12 to 18 that aims to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership, promote physical fitness, and to stimulate interest in the aviation and aerospace industries including the air element of the Canadian Forces.
Youth interested in the Air Cadet program are encouraged to see what cadets has to offer. The 902 Nighthawk Squadron parades at the Harold Simpson Memorial Youth Centre located at 9111 Peach Orchard Rd. in Summerland.