Featured Squadron of the Month

561 Osprey RCACS Crest

561 Osprey Squadron

Chartered: October 29, 1952
Status: Active
Community: Nelson BC

561 Osprey RCACS - History - Image 2

Squadron History:

561 Nelson Osprey Squadron was formed in 1952 and has maintained active status ever since. Its roots are closely aligned with 531 City of Trail RCACS. Alongside 581 Castlegar, the now-disbanded 904 Kootenai RCACS of Creston, and 841 Boundary RCACS of Grand Forks, these squadrons were established to serve the West Kootenay region of British Columbia.

Since its official founding on October 29, 1952, 561 Osprey Squadron has offered a low-cost youth development program for teenagers aged 12 to 18 residing in Nelson, Salmo, South Slocan, Balfour, and surrounding areas. Cadet training includes leadership, outdoor survival, music, aviation, and other valuable skills.

561 Osprey Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron - Historical Image
The Early Years of 561 Osprey RCACS
561 Osprey Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron - Historical Image
561 Osprey RCACS - Recognizing 70 years of providing youth development training in BC's West Kootenays

561 Osprey RCACS is extremely thankful to the Nelson BC Chapter of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Royal Canadian Leagon Branch 51 of Nelson BC. Both organizations have been long-time supporters of the Air Cadet Program in Nelson.

561 Osprey Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron - Historical Image
Air Cadets from the 561 Nelson Osprey Squadron are pictured with a RCAF pilot in front of an CL-13 (F86) Sabre Mark

Advanced summer training opportunities are available in areas such as Power and Glider Pilot licensing, music, sports and fitness, marksmanship, leadership, and international exchange. Senior Cadet training levels and advanced courses may also be applied as academic credits toward high school graduation.

The Squadron meets weekly on Friday evenings. In-person meetings are held at the Nelson Eagles Hall, located at 641 Baker Street.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nelson Cadets had the opportunity to virtually connect with leaders from both civilian and military sectors. These included military pilots, aircraft mechanics, local officials, and provincial Cadet leaders.

One notable virtual guest was Kate Armstrong, Nelson-based author of The Stone Frigate. Kate joined the Nelson Air Cadets for their meeting on February 5, 2021. During the session, she shared her experiences in Air Cadets and the Canadian Armed Forces. Kate joined the program shortly after females were officially permitted to enroll in the mid-1970s. In 1978, she was among the first group of female Cadets to earn Air Cadet Glider Wings. She later attended the Royal Military College as part of its first class to include female officer cadets, eventually serving as a logistics officer in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Nelson Air Cadets continue to meet every Friday. 

More information about 561 Osprey RCACS is available on the Squadron’s Facebook page at: 
561 Nelson Osprey Squadron – Royal Canadian Air Cadets.

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