The Squadron
The Royal Canadian Air Cadets
Steeped in RCAF history
Formally established in 1941, the purpose of the first Air Cadet Squadrons was to train young men to become members of the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II.
After the end of the war, the focus of the program changed to our current aim to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership; promote physical fitness; and stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land, and air activities of the Canadian Forces. The traditions and link to the RCAF remain part of the Air Cadet experience.
Experiences you cant get anywhere else
The opportunities available to Air Cadets are unique to this program. Experienced instructors and support from the Canadian Forces and Air Cadet League provide access to CF Aircraft and Facilities and many other experiences and opportunities not readily available to Canada’s youth.
Air Cadets grow as leaders and instructors by being included in the delivery of the program. Under the direction and supervision of Adult Staff, Cadets are provided leadership opportunities to teach classes, plan activities and supervise younger Cadets.
Senior Cadets are also tasked to assist with the development and delivery of our Training program, Supply and Administrative programs. Their involvement better engages youth by providing a program that is truly:
FOR CADETS - BY CADETS
The 199 St Vital Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
RCAF Origins
199 Squadron was a former World War II Air Cadet Squadron based in St.Vital. The Squadron was under the command of Flight Lieutenant James L. Findlay, a pilot with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Flight Lieutenant Findlay was an excellent example of the diversity available in the Air Cadet Program, in addition to his interest in aviation and the Air Force he had a keen interest in ensuring the unit had a band on parade. This commitment is reflected today with the F/L Findlay Memorial Award for the top Cadet Musician from 199 Squadron.
Once the war was over, interest in the Air Cadet Program waned and 199 was one of many Squadrons from across Canada to close down.
A Need for Expansion
Over the years, with the development of the Air Cadet Program into the program that it is today, more and more youth were attracted to the program.
The 199 St. Vital Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron was reformed effective 10 September 2003 after a decision was made by the then Commanding Officer of 176 RCACS, Maj James Forestell, that the unit was approaching a nearly unmanageable amount of cadets. The Squadron set roots in the Louis Riel Arts and Technical Centre in the Windsor Park area.
An Area In Need
199 Squadron has fostered partnerships with many community organizations in order to meet their training objectives. In 2008, the Squadron developed a partnership with the Winnipeg South Osborne Legion.
In September of 2015, the Squadron moved their operations to the Winnipeg South Osborne Legion This put the Squadron in an area which was devoid of other Cadet opportunities and say a boon of new Cadets who would not have otherwise taken part in the program.
In January 2025, the Squadron moved their training location to the Lord Roberts School as they outgrew the Legion space.
The Mascot of 199 Squadron is a Phoenix, to signify the rebirth of 199 Squadron and is a fitting symbol for a program which has a constantly revolving corps of Cadets advancing through the program.
The motto, Auctus Sapienta Vincent (Growth Wisdom Excellence) signifies the potential that all cadets strive to reach at 199 RCACS.
Both the Mascot and Motto were chosen by the Cadets of 199 Squadron.