Promotions presented at Kincardine Air Cadets Christmas party

About 50 members, officers, family and friends of the 183 Typhoon Squadron, Kincardine Air Cadets, gathered for the annual Christmas party at the Kincardine Legion, Friday, Dec. 7.

Lisa Moore, chairperson of the sponsorship committee, welcomed everyone and then Air Cadet William Fengler pointed out the Table for the Fallen Soldier which was located beside the head table.
 

"This symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit," he said. "We should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation's call to serve, and served in the cause of freedom in a special way. 
 

"We are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice. We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who have endured the agonies of pain, deprivation and death."
 

Fengler explained the table setting:
 

• The table is round - showing our everlasting concern for our fallen soldiers
• The tablecloth is white - symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call of duty
• The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of our fallen soldiers, and the loved ones and friends of these soldiers who keep the faith
• The vase is tied with a red ribbon, a symbol of our continued determination to remember our fallen soldiers
• A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those who will never return
• A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears endured by the families of those who have sacrificed all
• The Holy Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country
• The glass is inverted - they cannot toast with us at this time
• The chair is empty because they are no longer with us

"Let us remember - and never forget their sacrifice," said Fengler. "May they and their families ever be watched over and protected."
 

The assembly then raised a toast to the Fallen Soldier.

Following a delicious meal, served by Legion volunteers, Lt. Col. (retired) Jim Gale of Ontario Provincial Command, welcomed everyone to enjoy a glass of port (grape juice).

Officer Cadet Chris Dick of the Listowel Air Cadets, who has been working with the Kincardine squadron for the past few months, then called for a spot inspection, with Gale as reviewing officer. Corporal Josiah Brown was the best turned out Cadet and received $20.

Lt. Sandra Benbow, officer in charge, presented Brown with his promotion to corporal. She also presented WO2 Craig Tyler with his promotion. And then captain Stephanie Rutledge presented Benbow with her captain's bars.

Moore thanked everyone for attending and wished the crowd a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

The evening ended with board games and a social time.