On Saturday 28 May 2022, Warrant Officer First Class (WO1) Brenden Bilmer and Chief Petty Officer (CPO2) Keaton Woodside, two local cadets, were presented with a rare Cadet Commander’s Commendation from the Commander of the Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Formation; Brigadier General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet. The presentation to the cadets was made at their Annual Ceremonial Review parade, held at the Benson Centre.
The commendation was presented to the two cadets for their quick actions, on Friday 16 July 2021 when both were first on the scene of a single vehicle accident. They assisted the occupants of the overturned vehicle to safety through a small window opening, after discovering the doors could not be opened. The courageous and decisive actions taken by both cadets demonstrate maturity and fortitude of a proficient leader.
“At the time when the accident occurred my instinct was to make sure they were ok.” Said WO1 Bilmer. “Being a cadet has helped prepare me for stepping up quickly and making a fast decision while trying to keep safety in mind. Thanks to cadets for providing first aid training, I had the confidence and was prepared.” He explained.
The Command Commendation is awarded to recognize deeds or activities beyond the demand of normal duty and is limited to commanders in an official command in accordance with the relevant Ministerial Organization Order.
WO1 Brenden Bilmer is a cadet with 325 Cornwall Kiwanis Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. CPO2 Keaton Woodside has recently aged out as a cadet with 110 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Stormont.
Both were presented with a certificate as well as a silver bar bearing a Maple Leaf, which is worn on the breast pocket of the cadet uniform.
