Mr. Speaker, named after the world famous Golden Hawks precision flight team of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Oakville's 540 Golden Hawks squadron has been serving the youth of Oakville since 1951. With 240 cadets, it is one of the largest air cadets squadrons in Canada.
Cadets are encouraged to become active, responsible members of our community and contribute to society in terms of environmental, citizenship and community activities. Their band has been a staple at the Oakville Santa Claus parade for years. Cadets are trained in drills, first aid, instructional techniques, leadership, marksmanship, meteorology, navigation, principles of flight, survival training and much more.
Recently, the 540 Golden Hawks invited me to tour and inspect their squadron. lt was inspiring to speak with these young leaders about why they chose to become cadets and what they are doing to make Canada a better place for us all.