06/07/2026
At the recent 294 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron Annual Inspection, now 'retired' W.O 1 Cadet Sarah-Lynne Larocque was awarded the Legion Medal of Excellence. You may have seen Sarah-Lynne volunterring at the Branch and Poppy Campaigns. Here are Sarah-Lynne's own words from that event:
" I am incredibly honoured to finish my cadet career wearing the Legion Medal of Excellence. After six years in cadets, I can honestly say that I gave this program everything I had, and it has given me so much in return. The lessons, experiences, friendships, and opportunities have helped shape the person I am today.
First, I want to thank my mom. Thank you for putting up with the early mornings, late nights, countless activities, and for always being there when I needed to vent. Your support, patience, and encouragement have helped me get through some of the toughest moments, and I would not be where I am today without you.
I would also like to thank Len Maynard (past Legion Branch 642 Legion President) for his unwavering support throughout my cadet journey. Thank you for always being there, for believing in me, and for reminding me that I was doing a great job even when I doubted myself. Your encouragement and kindness have meant more than words can express.
To everyone I have met through cadets, thank you. Whether we met at my home unit, during training, or at camp, each of you has played a role in my journey. You have been there through the successes, the challenges, the laughter, and the memories. Some of my closest friendships and favourite moments came from this program, and I am grateful for every person who crossed my path. Thank you for your support, your friendship, and for helping make these last six years unforgettable.
Cadets has been more than just a program to me—it has been a second home. It taught me leadership, discipline, confidence, and perseverance. It gave me opportunities I never imagined, friendships that will last a lifetime, and memories that I will always cherish.
Receiving the Legion Medal of Excellence is an honour that I will carry with pride, not because of the medal itself, but because it represents the people who supported me along the way. Thank you to everyone who believed in me, challenged me, encouraged me, and helped me grow into the person I am today. "
