614 Squadron Air Cadets

About 614 Squadron Air Cadets

614 Squadron Air Cadets is a community organization located in the Carling Heights area of London, Ontario. It serves as a federally sponsored youth program for young Canadians aged 12 to 18 who are interested in learning about the activities of the Canadian Armed Forces. The program aims to develop life skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and citizenship, while encouraging participants to become active and responsible members of their communities. The squadron provides weekly training on Thursday evenings that includes instruction in aviation, leadership, citizenship, outdoor survival, drill, marksmanship, and sports. Beyond weekly meetings, the program offers weekend trips featuring field training exercises, gliding, and summer training opportunities for select cadets. While the organization introduces youth to military traditions and Air Force activities, it also highlights various other respectable career paths. Founded in 1976, the squadron was established following the efforts of former Air Cadet Officers W.A. Mallet and E.H. Muzylowsky, along with J. Bentley. The group was officially designated as The Forest City Squadron on September 2, 1976, and has since grown to include approximately 75 cadets and 6 officers. The squadron has received numerous awards, including being named Top Squadron in Ontario. Notable alumni include Colonel Jeremy Hansen, a former cadet who became a CF-18 pilot and Canadian astronaut. Prospective recruits can join between September and February, with the primary recruitment months occurring from September to November. There are no registration fees to join, though cadets are expected to participate in fundraising events to support the squadron and the air cadet glider program. Registration is completed through an online tool followed by the submission of supporting documents to the Administration Officer.