Belleville Sea Cadet Officer Receives Prestigious Commendation
The Cadets & Junior Canadian Rangers Commendation, a National Award, was awarded to Sub Lt (N) Matthew Batten. It read: “Sub-Lieutenant Matthew Batten has demonstrated outstanding dedication and innovation by developing amateur radio training within the sea cadet complimentary training program at 58 RCSCC Quinte and establishing cadet radio station VA3GKY. His passion for amateur radio has inspired other cadet corps and revived interest in naval communications while providing additional learning opportunities for cadets.” This is one of the top awards that can be granted to cadet officers.
In an effort to introduce more science, technology, engineering and math back into their training program, Batten began to teach classes in Amateur Radio at the Belleville Sea Cadet Corps. When COVID precautions shut down in person training, Matthew worked with Amateur Radios of Canada to develop an on-line course for cadets. Five received their National Amateur Radio License with one going on to add Morse Code to his qualification. Since then, eight other Sea Cadet Corps in Ontario have developed the program and have their own call signs. Equipment has been donated by members of the Canadian Forces Affiliate Radio Service.
Information on the Belleville Sea Cadets can be found at www.bellevilleseacadets.com or by phoning 613-962-4647.
