Alberta and England are hopeful summer all-expenses-paid destinations for one lucky 2250 The Muskoka Pioneers Army Cadet of Bracebridge.

Sergeant Matthew Ruttan was one of 29 cadets who were successful in completing their National Star Certification Exam this weekend at Canadian Forces North Bay. The exam is a two-phase test. Phase one was conducted one month ago and comprised written exams on the fundamentals of the Army Cadet program. These included map and compass, rank structure in the Canadian Forces, among other subjects.

The 29 cadets that were successful in the written portion had one month to prepare for the second phase. During this time they prepared and practised their assigned drill and practical lessons that they would have to instruct to other cadets. During the drill lesson they are marked on the demonstration and instruction of the proper drill movement along with collectively and individually instructing the class.

For the practical lesson some of the subjects taught are cardinal points of a compass and army cadet badges, among others. Each cadet is assessed by the same marking scheme that the Canadian Forces uses for its instructors.

During phase two this weekend, Ruttan had to demonstrate his ability to tie several different knots in the allotted amount of time. Also he had to be able to use a map and compass effectively. Each cadet had to find a location on a map using a six-figure grid reference and show their ability to figure out magnetic declination and deviation with annual change.

Each phase, along with the drill and lesson instruction, had to be passed with a minimum score of 60 per cent. On Sunday the cadets had to successfully pass the Army Cadet Fitness Test which included sit-ups, push-ups, standing long jump and a timed shuttle run.

Each cadet that passed received their fifth level National Star Certification Exam Badge which qualifies them to instruct the junior cadets at their cadet corps. The other perk in passing this exam is that each cadet has the opportunity to go to an Advance Exchange this summer.

Each cadet, based on their final mark with the highest mark, is assured one of three choices. The location choices for the summer training are Banff, Alberta for adventure glacier climbing, as well as trips to England, Scotland, Wales, Italy and France for six weeks. All travel and meals are covered and the cadets receive a weekly training bonus for pocket money.

One of the most challenging of the summer training is the six-week Army Cadet parachuting course where 50 cadets train to earn their Canadian Forces parachute qualification. After successful completing their training jumps they will wear their parachute wings with pride. Should they join the reserve or regular Canadian Forces, they will be allowed to wear the wings on their uniforms.

Ruttan is hopeful that he will be going to England as part of the Maple Leaf Exchange, where over the course of five weeks the cadets tour through England, Wales and Scotland. Ruttan states he is excited about the prospect of representing Canada and Bracebridge during this time away from home.

The 2250 Army Cadets has boys and girls aged from 12 to 18 and they meet on Wednesday nights at Bracebridge Public School. New recruits are always welcome. For more information call 646-2025 or check www.armycadets.ca.