About the 758 Argus Sqn.
Serving our Community Since 1965
Cadets is a Partnership –and– a Community
Squadron History
On November 10th, 1965, a group of 30 enthusiastic Cadets and 6 Staff members came together at the Brampton Armouries on Chapel Street to form the 758 Argus Squadron. Fast forward just 3 years to 1968, and the squadron had already doubled its numbers to 60 cadets!
This squadron’s accomplishments extend far beyond just a numerical count. Its legacy lies in its unwavering dedication to helping young people in Brampton find their true north, while creating opportunities for personal growth and development.
Over the years, the squadron has seen many of its former cadets come back as instructors (CIs) and volunteers (CVs), a true testament to the positive impact it has on the community. Today, the squadron boasts an impressive 140+ cadets, 8 officers, and a number of civilian volunteers, with parents also lending their support through the Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC).
As a result of its tireless efforts, the 758 Argus Squadron has sent countless cadets to various competitions and summer training courses, ranging from Basic Survival to Marksmanship, and even Glider Pilot and Power Pilot Scholarships.
The squadron is particularly proud of its former cadets who have gone on to assume key roles in the Canadian Military or as Cadet Instructors with 758 and other cadet units. Their achievements continue to leave a lasting impact on the community, and we eagerly look forward to seeing what the future holds for this remarkable group of individuals.
We have 2 Websites!
CIC Training Site
The training site is managed by the Officers that make up the training staff (CIC). Cadets use this site for reporting absences and finding training-related information.
SSC/Parents' Site
The SSC/Parents' site is where you are right now. This site is managed by the squadron's volunteer committee. This site is a fundraising and parent communication tool.
What is the CIC?
The Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) is a component of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Reserves, operating within the Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service (COATS). With approximately 7,800 commissioned officers, the CIC’s primary responsibilities include ensuring the safety, supervision, administration, and training of over 52,000 Cadets aged 12–18.
CIC Officers serve in the sea, land or air elements, overseeing more than 1,100 corps and squadrons across Canada. These youth leaders receive specialized training to equip them for their duties. Notably, many officers are former graduates of the Cadet Program, driven by a desire to give back to their community.
In supporting the officers, Civilian Volunteers (CVs) and Civilian Instructors (CIs) also play vital roles. Typically composed of former cadets, these supporting members frequently seek to join the CIC.
Together, this group of people is responsible for all matters concerning the training of cadets, operating at the local level of the program.
What is the SSC?
The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) is made up of volunteers, almost always parents of cadets, who undertake the crucial responsibility of raising funds to support the program. The 758 Argus SSC is a registered charity.
With the primary objective of supporting the Commanding Officer (CO) in delivering the cadet training program, the SSC plays a vital role in funding the program. It handles all financial matters related to the squadron, overseeing the finances for squadron activities and programs that are not funded by DND. These activities include venue rentals, transportation, squadron teams, and operational expenses like phone and internet bills.
Moreover, the SSC plays a critical role as a liaison between parents, the community, and the program. In essence, the committee acts as a bridge between the community and the squadron’s cadet program. The SSC is responsible for ensuring that the needs and requirements of the program are effectively communicated to the community and parents.
The Partnership
The cadet program, in brief, is administered by two distinct groups: the Military Staff and the Civilian Volunteers. When we step back from the program’s local level and observe it from a national perspective, we can discern a collaborative partnership between the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Air Cadet League of Canada (ACLC). This alliance is present at all levels of the program, including the national, provincial, and, most significantly, local levels, where our squadron operates.
It is crucial to comprehend the differences between these two groups since they operate together yet independently to offer the Air Cadet Program to your child(ren). Therefore, let us examine this more closely in the chart below:
About The Cadet Program
The Canadian Cadet Organizations offer a unique opportunity for youth to develop a variety of skills that will aid in their transition to adulthood. These skills include a focus on good citizenship, strong leadership, and maintaining physical fitness. Cadets gain experiences that cannot be found anywhere else.
Air Cadets focus on aviation-related activities, including flying, gliding, and studies in meteorology and aerospace. Sea Cadets learn seamanship skills, such as navigation and sailing. Army Cadets participate in expeditions, trekking, orienteering, and marksmanship. Each program offers its own unique set of challenges and learning opportunities.
The Cadet program is open to all Canadian youth aged 12 to 18, regardless of gender, race, culture, religion, education, socioeconomic status, or ability. While the program is expected to be physically and mentally challenging, there are no artificial barriers that preclude participation. The programs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate all participants.
In addition to physical and mental challenges, the Cadet program instills Canadian military values in its participants. These values include respecting the dignity of all people, serving Canada before self, and obeying and supporting lawful authorities. Cadets will gain a better appreciation of the specific values of duty, loyalty, integrity, courage, stewardship, and excellence that are expected of all Canadian Armed Forces members.
The Cadet program is designed to help participants progressively develop into adults who contribute positively to Canadian society as leaders, while also instilling a lifelong appreciation for health and fitness. The program aims to balance safety and challenge, providing activities and events that are challenging, yet safe.
Finally, the Cadet program provides youth with numerous opportunities and experiences that have a positive and lasting impact. Participants learn significant lessons and develop deep friendships that can last a lifetime.
