James Vernon has had a busy week, taking part in an assessment of over 70 youth from across Canada to find his way to the top of the pack and gaining him the appointment at the Mountain Cadet training centre. 

Vernon, who is in his last summer of the cadet program, demonstrated leadership and commitment to the program. After coming out in the forefront of the cadet training, he now will have a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of leaders from across Canada. The program specializes in expedition and drill and ceremonial

Last summer, Vernon completed the Canadian Forces basic parachutist course and he credits the program for the leadership skills he has obtained.

鈥淢y experience doing Basic Para last year made me a better person; it really pushed me mentally and physically. Plus, I got to jump out of planes,鈥� said Vernon.

Vernon is an advocate for the cadet program, stating that commitment will get you far. 

鈥淭he program has so much to offer and the more you put into it, the more you can gain from it. If you work hard, you鈥檒l be rewarded with experiences that you just can鈥檛 get anywhere else.鈥� 

Vernon thanks the cadet program for bringing him lifelong friendships with people he would not have otherwise met. Cadets of varying backgrounds are brought together to have common values, challenges and successes. 

Away from cadets, Vernon volunteers at a local retirement community, working with seniors who are living with dementia. He recently graduated high school and hopes to attend the Royal Military College.