Week 25: It’s the final countdown

Final pistol qualifications

This week, cadets take their final pistol assessment. At the range, they will shoot at several distances in different scenarios. Like many final testing sessions, stakes are high. Cadets must be successful in this final pistol test to graduate.

In the field, members must keep up their pistol skills with annual qualifications.

Marine environment awareness

Many detachments across Canada patrol areas that include bodies of water. These include rivers, lakes and coastlines. Any body of water poses a risk, from personal safety to border security.

At the Depot pool, cadets are familiarized with basic water rescue and safety training.

Members posted to areas requiring the use of marine assets may receive specialized training in the field.

Senior troop epaulettes

Do you know how to tell which is the most senior troop at Depot? By looking at their epaulettes.

In their final week(s), cadets earn the right to wear the epaulettes with a red stripe. This shows they are the most senior troop on base and close to graduating from the Cadet Training Program.

National security

One of the RCMP's top priorities is protecting Canada’s national security. The RCMP must detect, assess and respond to threats of terrorism in and outside of Canada. Specialized RCMP units lead Canada’s nationwide response to terrorism.

At Depot, cadets study Canada's anti-terrorism legislation and laws. Cadets will learn about terrorist organizations and how they impact Canada. Cadets learn how to respond if there is a threat to Canadian communities.

Depot cadet band

Band has been part of the RCMP since 1874. Over the years, the band has evolved but still remains part of the Depot experience.

The band consists of up to 4 cadets from each troop. Musical ability is not a must-have, although many members do have previous experience. Under the eye of the Depot Bandmaster, the cadet band practises 4 times a week.

The cadet band provides music, cadence and entertainment at Depot events. The cadet band plays for the Sergeant Major's Parades and Sunset Ceremonies.

Sunset Ceremonies

Sunset Ceremonies are special events that take place every summer at Depot. Starting Canada Day and through to mid-August, these ceremonies happen once a week.

Ceremonies include a foot-drill display performed by cadets wearing scarlet tunics, historic cannon firings and the ceremonial lowering of the Canadian flag at sunset. Special guests also attend to highlight different partners and celebrate community culture.

The cadets who take part are still in the Cadet Training Program. They learn and practise precise drill demonstration to perform in full uniform with accompaniment of the cadet band.

This is an opportunity bring together cadets and staff with the community and its visitors in a celebration that honours our past with a look to the future. Many cadets say that taking part in a Sunset Ceremony is a favourite activity during summer at Depot.