Young Cadets remember and respect

Hayley Grier-Stewart, CDT and Hope Grier-Stewart, CDT

T. Lucas photos

Toni Lucas

On November 5, the Army Cadet Corp. 2309 of Fort Macleod took to the streets of Pincher Creek. Volunteers from the Corps gathered at the Royal Canadian Legion #43 to pick up and distribute poppies. These young men and women braved the cold to go door to door, selling poppies for donations.

 Cadets came from Pincher Creek, Brocket and Fort MacLeod to raise funds and awareness for the Remembrance Day Ceremony that will be held at the Pincher Creek Community Hall on Friday, November 11.  Doors will open at 10 am, with the traditional moment of silence being observed at 11 am.

Seventeen year old Cadet Master Warrant Officer, Morgan Downing-Baker  has been a proud member of the cadets for 5 years, and has previously engaged in the poppy drive here and in Fort MacLeod for those years.  John Baker, dad, driver, and very involved volunteer, was with Morgan, ready to help out with the drive.  He grinned when Morgan said " I joined because my dad suggested it, and one of my friends joined."

Cadet Master Warrant Officer 
Morgan Downing-Baker

The Baker family has long ties to the military.  John's grandfather John Arthur Lewis Vanzant served during the Battle of Passchendaele in World War One.

When asked, Cadet Downing-Baker said that he is considering a future military career.  "It offers opportunities.  I am thinking about officer training.  They teach you leadership skills, if you qualify."  John Baker feels good that Morgan chose to go into cadets.  "It is one of the best programs out there.  It is a very safe environment, with a zero tolerance for bullying, and really helps the kids grow," he said.

John Baker pointed out that this drive is to make sure that everyone that wants to can publicly recognize the sacrifices of those that have served for our country.  "If someone wants a poppy, and does not have money to contribute, they are still welcome to one.  It is to raise awareness, as well as funds."  It stands as a visual promise that we have not forgotten Canadians that have sacrificed in war and military operations.

The Cadets will also be on hand during Remembrance Day to pay their own respects, and pay respect for those who cannot attend, by laying wreaths.

The Poppy Fund raises money for Veterans, ex-military personnel and their dependants.