The Abbotsford Air Cadets had advertised their program to both male and female youth, however existing gender roles interfered with the willingness for young girls to sign up for such a program. A prominent name that arises in female cadet history is Kathy Armstrong from Abbotsford who later went on to write a book about her cadet experience. The air cadets became a program that inspired young girls to participate in activities that society deemed were masculine. Keep reading to learn about just some of Kathy Armstrong’s many achievements and how she paved the way for many young girls.

Solo Pilot, 1978

Kathy Armstrong had originally been part of the Mission Air Cadets squadron for four years and then joined the Abbotsford Air Cadets. She became a solo glider pilot at the age of 16, which was an accomplishment that 60 others (majority boys) had that year. This pushed her to pursue flight school so she can keep advancing in the aviation field. This shows that programs like these really pushed young teenagers into careers in specific fields.

The Stone Frigate

“Kate Armstrong was an ordinary young woman eager to leave an abusive childhood behind her when she became the first female cadet admitted to the Royal Military College of Canada. As she struggled for survival in the ultimate boys’ club, she called on her fierce and humourous spirit to push back against the whims of a domineering and patriarchal organization. Later in life, feeling unfulfilled in her post-military career, she realized that finding her true path forward meant she had to go back to the beginning and revisit the truth of what she had experienced all those years ago.”

This is the exact description from Armstrong’s memoir, showing her strength and courage as she describes her experience of being the first female cadet admitted to the Royal Military College of Canada. Kathy Armstrong’s book shares her struggles of being a female in male-dominated spaces. Her humble beginnings in the Abbotsford Air Cadet squadron goes to show the power this program carries. Although the program does not require further involvement in the military, air force, etc. it does definitely aid those who choose this route and puts them ahead at a young age. 

When reflecting on Kathy Armstrong’s accomplishments in the Cadet sector, it is necessary to realize that she acted as a trailblazer for the upcoming generations of females. The air cadets program was a program that not only gave youth a place to spend their time after school, but also empowered the youth (particularly younger girls) to participate in activities that helped build confidence, strength, discipline and much more. This also poses such questions about why it was more difficult for Kathy in the Air Cadets program when it was offered to both boys and girls.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

  • Despite offering the program to both boys and girls, was there gender discrimination present?
  • Did the Air Cadet organizers activity seek to fill in women for their leadership roles?
  • Presently within the Air Cadets, is Kathy Armstrong’s experience talked about as an important historical moment for girls?