609 Steveston RCACS

SQUADRON HISTORY: 

609 Steveston in Richmond was formed on April 16, 2008.

In August 2008, the Director of Cadets at National Defense Headquarters formally approved the establishment of the 609 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron for Steveston. From September 2007, 609 Squadron operated as a satellite of 655 Richmond RCACS. On 12 August 2008, the Squadron was chartered under the command of Captain Gary Gratrix, 609 Squadron’s Commanding Officer. The Squadron’s first parade night was at 1800 hours on 17 Sep 2008 at Walter Lee Elementary School. The official Stand Up Parade celebrating 609 Steveston’s status as a Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron took place on 12 February 2009.

Over the years, 609 Cadets have participated in many regional competitions, such as Band, Drill, Effective Speaking, First Aid, Marksmanship, Range, and various sports competitions. Cadets within the squadron have also achieved great results and represented our squadron with pride. Cadets have won and achieved in the Top 3 both regionally and provincially in many of the competitions.

609 Steveston was one of the first squadrons to host a multi-unit sports competition. The multi-unit basketball tournament, known as the Steveston Classic, was inaugurated in 2011. This event welcomes teams from across the Lower Mainland, giving cadets the opportunity to compete with their team while also building meaningful connections and lasting friendships.

In 2017, 609 Steveston relocated to McMath Secondary School, where we now call our home. We are grateful for the continuous support from the Richmond School Board and CD McMath Secondary Staff in letting us parade here.

Squadron Commanding Officers: