The Penhold cadet squadron is alive and well despite an ongoing search for a permanent home for the 73-year-old organization.
With the final Penhold Air Cadet Summer Camp having taken place earlier this year, the #7 Penhold Cadet Squadron's landlords, Harvard Park Business Centre, have put them on a month-to-month lease instead of a one-year agreement, which had been in place previously.
“We are 30 days away from not having a home for the program, depending on the status of Hangar #6,” said Tracy West, a member of the Penhold Air Cadet Support Association. “We understand the hangar is for sale or lease, and we have made the cadets aware of the situation.”
With a potential 30-day notice of eviction possible at any time, the Penhold Air Cadet Support Squadron and the Air Cadet League of Alberta are looking for a permanent home within a reasonable distance from Innisfail and Penhold.
“There have been investigations as to our working with schools in a partnership, which is the preferred method, but that has not yielded any positive results yet,” said West. “Our program has specific needs that include a parade floor, offices, and a secure storage area for our rifles, and other items.
“Our current home has been perfect for us and we would like to work with Harvard Park Business Centre to stay here, or work with any potential buyer of the building,” she added. “We are thankful for their support over the years. As we are a registered charity, there are advantages to working with the cadet program in addition to helping build responsible citizens of tomorrow.”
When contacted by the Province, Harvard Park Business Centre general manager Tracey Henwood had no comment.
West was quick to point out that despite the internal struggle for a permanent home, the program is continuing on as normal, with courses scheduled, drilling and leadership training.
“This year already, we have five award winners for long service awards, some of which were presented on October 29,” said Evelyne Huseby, central wing director of the Air Cadet League of Alberta. “We were able to recognize Flight Sgt. Gerrard who was recognized for five years of service with a bar and rosette while Flight Sgt. Helset, Penman, West and Cuff were honoured for four years of cadet service.”
Sponsored by the Royal Canadian Legion #104 out of Innisfail, the squadron is active in the community and will be part of the Innisfail Eagles Remembrance Day ceremony.
The #7 Penhold Cadet Squadron was formed in 1941 and is the longest running cadet squadron in Alberta. More information can be found at http://7rcacs.weebly.com/
