In the last year the DND has introduced some statistical methods of examining the strength and sustainability of all the cadet units in the country. When the information is broken down to the local level it has become obvious through census data that the youth population in the town of Blenheim and surrounding area is in decline. This data is showing that 291 Blenheim Bomber Squadron is unsustainable as a stand alone squadron. The DND wants to maintain an air cadet presence in both Chatham and Blenheim. In order to accomplish this we are merging the two squadrons. We will parade as one squadron on Monday nights in two locations (Chatham Armoury and Blenheim High School). Everyone will become the newly named "294 Chatham-Kent Squadron", and I Captain Russell will become the Commanding Officer. We will have 3 sponsors Br 185 Legion in Blenheim, Br 642 Legion in Chatham and the Kinsmen Club. As a parent or cadet this change will have little affect on you. Weakly training will remain the same, the same opportunities for summer training and gliding and other scholarships will still be offered. Once a month the squadron will parade together in one location either Chatham or Blenheim alternating monthly, we will provide a bus to transport the cadets on that night to the training location. We are breaking new ground as we attempt this merger. The staff is working diligently behind the scenes to make this a seamless transition for the cadets and parents. If you have any questions, comments or concerns about this change please feel free to contact myself or any of our staff.
Sincerely
Chris Russell, CD
Captain
294 Kinsmen Sqn
