RMR Command Team Reviews 588 Eric Simms Squadron’s Semi-Annual Parade

Westmount, Quebec – 20 December 2025: On Tuesday, 16 December 2025, Lieutenant-Colonel Kevin Langlois, Commanding Officer (CO) of The Royal Montreal Regiment (RMR), visited 588 Eric Simms Squadron (Royal Canadian Air Cadets) to serve as Reviewing Officer for the Squadron’s semi-annual parade. He was accompanied by the Regiment’s Regimental Sergeant-Major, Chief Warrant Officer James Quesnel, underscoring the importance the Regiment places on its relationships with affiliated Cadet units.

The parade was hosted by Captain Mélanie Bigras, CO of 588 Eric Simms Squadron. Under her leadership, the Squadron delivered a well-executed ceremonial program that reflected strong preparation, discipline, and pride in service. The reviewing party was received and briefed on the parade sequence before proceeding to the inspection, where Lieutenant-Colonel Langlois had the opportunity to meet cadets, observe standards up close, and speak directly with members about their training, progression, and aspirations.

A semi-annual parade is more than a ceremonial milestone. It is a visible demonstration of the habits that build leaders: attention to detail, teamwork, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Throughout the evening, the cadets’ dress, drill, and deportment spoke to hours of consistent effort from the cadets themselves, as well as the instructional staff who develop them week after week.

In his remarks to the Squadron, Lieutenant-Colonel Langlois highlighted the shared values that connect the RMR and the Air Cadets: service before self, pride in standards, and the steady pursuit of excellence. He emphasized that the cadet program develops practical leadership attributes that will serve members well in any path they choose, whether in uniform or in civilian life. Chief Warrant Officer Quesnel reinforced the same message from a senior non-commissioned perspective, speaking to the importance of discipline, reliability, and taking pride in the fundamentals.

The visit served as a tangible reminder that the Regiment’s “greater regimental family” extends beyond serving soldiers and veterans, and includes the young Canadians who carry forward a commitment to leadership and community. 588 Eric Simms Squadron continues to be an outstanding example of that spirit, and the RMR remains proud of its affiliation and the opportunity to support the cadets who represent the future.