01About
Built on history.
Focused on what's ahead.
23 Optimist Squadron is a local Royal Canadian Air Cadet squadron where generations of young people have learned, led, challenged themselves and grown.
Who we are
A squadron of young people, and the adults behind them.
23 Optimist Squadron is part of the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program, a national youth program for young Canadians interested in developing leadership, citizenship, fitness and an appreciation for aviation.
Based in St. Catharines, our squadron has been part of the community since 1943. Cadets train together throughout the year, developing skills, taking on new responsibilities and experiencing opportunities that can extend far beyond a regular training night.
Some arrive because they're interested in aviation. Others come for the challenge, the friendships, the music, the leadership opportunities or simply to try something new. There is no single kind of person who belongs at 23.
Our story
Decades of cadets. One standard.
The Royal Canadian Air Cadet program began in 1941, during a very different chapter of Canadian history. Two years later, in 1943, 23 Optimist Squadron became part of that story in St. Catharines.
The program has changed considerably in the decades since. What began during wartime evolved into a national youth program centred on citizenship, leadership, physical fitness and an interest in aviation.
23 has evolved with it. Generations of cadets have trained here, taken on responsibility, built friendships and eventually made room for the generations that followed. The uniforms, activities and faces may change. The expectation that cadets learn, contribute and grow remains.
Who we are today
MORE THAN A
MONDAY NIGHT.
Today's Air Cadet program is built around citizenship, leadership, physical fitness and an interest in aviation. At 23, those ideas become practical experiences through weekly training, aviation, sports, ceremony, music and community involvement.
As cadets progress, they're expected not only to learn, but increasingly to teach, mentor and lead those coming after them. Additional courses and opportunities may also be available during the summer.
The Air Cadet Motto
To Learn. To Serve. To Advance.
Squadron staff
The people who run 23.
Commanding Officer
Capt. Jody Lemoine, CD
Deputy Commanding Officer & Band Officer
Capt. Kelly McGrath, CD
Training Officer
Lt Matt Russell, CD
Assistant Training Officer
Lt Adam Carter, OMC
Administration Officer
Capt. Chris Bowman, CD
Asst. Admin Officer & Chief Ground School Instructor
CI David Boyd
Supply Officer & Band Officer
CI Samantha Robitaille
Band Officer
CV Nathan Herbert
Community
We do not do this alone.
Behind 23 Squadron is a community that helps make the cadet experience possible. Our Sponsoring Committee works alongside squadron leadership to support activities, resources and opportunities that extend beyond what the core program provides.
Through fundraising, local partnerships and volunteer support, they help create opportunities for cadets while strengthening 23's connection to the community it has called home for generations.