Featured Squadron of the Month
637 Arrow Squadron
Chartered: January 15, 1957
Status: Active
Community: Burnaby, BC
Squadron History:
1957
Born on January 15th, 1957 in a local High School, 637 Arrow Squadron was named after the CF-105 Avro Arrow that was launched the same year. From the early years, 637 Arrow RCACS has distinguished itself – as a whole and as individuals – in all aspects of the Cadet movement. While still in its growing years, the Squadron surpassed all competitors in Drill and Marksmanship, and produced many strong leaders and pilots – including the Top Private Pilot in Canada in 1960.
1960 – 2020
In 1960, at the request of the Sponsoring Committee Chairperson and the young women in the area, a flight of female Cadets, called ‘Cadettes’, was formed. This happened years before the Canadian Parliament amended the relevant legislation by changing the word boys to persons, therefore permitting girls to become members of the Royal Canadian Sea, Army, and Air Cadets on July 30th, 1975.
Since then, many young people have been trained at 637 Arrow RCACS to become better individuals. They enjoy the many benefits associated with being a part of the dynamic 637 Arrow team of dedicated Air Cadets. Air Cadets has proven to be a valuable program for many young Canadians. The knowledge and experiences gained in the program are some of the most beneficial used throughout life.
2020 – 2025
In the years leading up to the 2019 COVID pandemic, interest in the Air Cadet program in the community grew to a degree that it exceeded the legally permitted occupancy level for the Squadron’s LHQ. (Nelson Elementary School). To address this challenge, and the issue of turning Cadets away, an initiative to use a second location was developed and presented as a potential solution. The selling point of this solution was that while this option prioritized local community access to the program, the required inclusivity of the program was maintained.
Major Tiwana (the then CO) met with the then-principal of Marlborough Elementary School to explore the possibility of this facility hosting an additional parade night. Before this initiative could be implemented, the idea was deferred due to the pandemic. It wasn’t until September 2022, amid post-COVID enrollment demand surges, that it was reintroduced and implemented.
Shortly after this plan was set in motion, Capt. Marco Lee took over command of the Squadron. He, his staff and the members of the Squadron Sponsoring Committee faced the critical decision of either navigating the logistical challenges—such as instructor availability, supply constraints, and administrative adjustments—or turn away 50+ families. They chose to adapt and move forward.
The initial hurdles included limited supply access and balancing instructor schedules, but the benefits quickly became apparent. The expansion allowed for greater leadership opportunities for NCOs, more manageable recruit intake groups, and—most importantly—no turned-away families. Additionally, unlike many new Squadrons, they maintained the same high standards for optional and weekend training. By operating jointly, they’ve continued offering a 6–7 day per week program without disruption.
Today, there are discussions circulating about 637 serving as a host Squadron for the secondary parade night (Tuesdays at Marlborough Elementary), which has grown into a self-sustaining operation without compromising training quality.
637 Arrow Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron is one of the largest Cadet Squadrons in the Greater Vancouver Area. With almost 400 Cadets and 20 adult staff, this program is an active establishment with numerous activities and opportunities being provided each and every year.
The Squadron is currently led under the direction of Commanding Officer Captain Marco Lee and Squadron Commander Warrant Officer First Class Ryan Huang. They strive to develop in youth, qualities of leadership that will be relevant today and for generations to come.
637 Arrow RCAC Squadron provides the youth of Burnaby with opportunities of challenge and excitement. they have gained and continue to gain recognition at sports, drill, first aid and band competitions and various community and multi-squadron events.
The Air Cadet organization prides itself on its ability to train young people to accept responsibility as they develop leadership skills in the various tasks that they perform. Opportunities open to Air Cadets are numerous. Few organizations offer their members training that is as extensive as the training offered to Air Cadets.
The chance to become a pilot, to learn about airport operations, to train as a leader, to develop as a musician, to learn valuable bush survival skills, or travel to foreign countries are only a sampling of the opportunities available to Air Cadets. It is up to the Cadet to choose which programs will be pursued, and a Cadet’s career will develop around individual interests. In short, the Air Cadet movement has a lot to offer those who are ready to dedicate themselves to gaining the valuable experiences offered in the many programs.
The following is a link to some additional historic photographs of 637 Arrow RCACS
Corporate Sponsors and Supporters of 637 Arrow RCACS
- The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 83
- The Department of National Defense
- City of Burnaby – Parks and Recreation Services
A Special Thanks to LR/WC/GC/ Director, Ms. Nancy Chapman for all the support that she provided 637 Arrow SSC on behalf of the Air Cadet League of Canada BCPC. Throughout the years Nancy has been a big part of the 637 Arrow Squadron Family.