The 746 Lightning Hawk Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron at the Langley Airport has a new commanding officer.
The change of command was marked by a formal ceremony on March 31 before 120 cadets and guests.
The ceremony was overseen by Major Mike Fortino and involved the passing of the 746 Squadron Flag from Capt. Matt Dykeman to Capt. Nathan Groome, signifying the transfer of responsibility.
Outgoing Commanding Officer Dykeman was recognized for his leadership over the past year and a half at the 746 Squadron, the third Squadron where he has served as CO.
Capt. Dykeman is transferring to the Squadron Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific) in Victoria.
Capt. Groome now commands the squadron where he started as an Air Cadet at the age of 14.
Groome grew up in Langley and was promoted through the ranks of the local air cadet Squadron, where he has been serving most recently as an officer.
Youth between 12 and 18 years of age interested in joining should monitor the squadron website at 746air@cadets.gc.ca for September registration or contact the Squadron at 604-532-7466.
The Royal Canadian Air Cadets is a federally-sponsored national program for young Canadians aged 12 to 18.
The program operates within a partnership agreement between the Department of National Defence (DND) and The Air Cadet League of Canada (ACL), a civilian volunteer organization.
There are more than 450 squadrons across Canada with approximately 23,000 Air Cadets enrolled in the program.
Further information about The Air Cadet League of Canada can be found at www.aircadetleague.com and the national Cadet program at www.cadets.ca.