Featured Squadron of the Month
552 Key City Squadron
Chartered: March 11, 2009
Status: Active
Community: Cranbrook, BC
Squadron History:
Early Beginnings
322 Cranbrook Squadron (1943-1948)
The first Air Cadet Squadron presence in Cranbrook was 322 Cranbrook Squadron, formed in 1943 during World War II. The unit operated until 1948, providing wartime youth training and aviation education. Its establishment reflected the national effort to engage young Canadians in aviation and citizenship during the war years.
The Kiwanis Era
552 Kiwanis Cranbrook Squadron (1952-1957)
In 1952, Cranbrook saw the revival of Air Cadets with the formation of 552 Kiwanis Cranbrook Squadron. Sponsored by the local Kiwanis Club, the Squadron emphasized civic involvement and leadership. It was active in the community and appeared in publications such as the Mt. Baker View Point (1954).
During its second year of operation, F/O G. A. McDermid succeeded F/O M. D. McPhee as Commanding Officer. F/O R. Allen became the Squadron Adjutant.
A total of thirty-eight parades were held throughout the training year. Notable events included the promotions of senior NCOs – Flt. Sgt. D. Laker, Sgt. G. Logan, Sgt. R. Viher, and Sgt. L. Cox on December 10, 1953, and the official presentation of the Air Cadet Ensign to the Squadron by the Air Cadet League of Canada on April 29, 1954.
The Squadron disbanded again in 1957, marking the end of its five-year contribution to youth development in Cranbrook.
Squadron Revival
Satellite Flight of 266 Kimberley Squadron (Early 2000s)
Nearly five decades later, in the mid 2000s, local interest in the Air Cadet program was renewed through a satellite flight of 266 Kimberley Squadron.
Motivated by Mr. Don Watt, BCPC Kootenay Wing Chair, and Major Marika Szabo, RCSU (Pac) Area Cadet Instructor, a Squadron Sponsoring Committee was formed and incorporated. This was an essential step toward securing a Squadron Charter. Capt. Gordon Mudie agreed to serve as the Squadron’s first Commanding Officer, laying the foundation for a new independent unit.
Slow but steady momentum saw Cadet numbers increase until the Cranbrook Cadet Flight qualified to apply for its charter.
On March 11, 2009, the Cranbrook flight earned its charter, becoming 552 Key City RCACS. The name “Key City” reflected Cranbrook’s civic nickname, tying the Squadron closely to its local identity. Capt. Mudie’s tenure as Commanding Officer was brief, as he soon aged out.
PO2 Rob Bott (Ret.), a new resident of Cranbrook, was encouraged to join the Cadet Instructors Cadre. Capt. Rob Bott assumed command of the Squadron in early spring 2009.
From this point forward, the Squadron began rebuilding a rich history of dedicated leadership and community involvement. A history that has significantly contributed to youth development in Cranbrook, BC.
During the early years of the Squadron’s rebirth, the Bott family played a crucial role in growing and establishing 552 Key City RCACS, with family members serving and volunteering at different times on both the DND and SSC sides of the Squadron’s leadership.
Captains Rob and Lori Lee Bott dedicated the next 18 years to contributing to the Air Cadet Program in Cranbrook. Their involvement included organizing extracurricular activities such as effective speaking, orienteering, first aid training, and rocketry.
In September 2023, Captain Lori Lee Bott handed over command of the Squadron to Captain Dorothy Palmer during a formal Change of Command Ceremony. The ceremony, attended by local dignitaries, highlighted the Squadron’s ongoing commitment to youth development and community engagement.
Throughout its existence, the 552 Key City Squadron Sponsoring Committee and Squadron officers have worked hand in hand to build the Squadron and provide as many opportunities as possible to Cadets, despite limited resources.
Growth and Legacy
The Squadron has participated in regional competitions, commemorations including the 100th anniversary of Vimy Ridge and numerous community service initiatives. In 2019, the Squadron celebrated its 10 year anniversary with a parade and awards ceremony.
Each revival of the Squadron has demonstrated the community’s enduring commitment to youth aviation, education, and leadership development. Today, 552 Key City RCACS continues to train Cadets while preserving the legacy of its predecessors, ensuring continuity of tradition and civic pride.
More information and a pictorial journey about the activities of 552 Key City RCACS of Cranbrook BC can be found at: 552 Key City Royal Canadian Air Cadets Cranbrook | Facebook