It's been an amazing year for Alexander Gaio of the 828 Hurricane Air Cadet Squadron.
He just received his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award for achievements in fitness, community service, computer skills and an adventurous journey. Utilizing survival skills learned from the Tsawwassen-based squadron, the journey took him through Garibaldi Park for four days/three nights where he hiked eight hours per day carrying all his equipment and food.
The award was presented by Governor General David Johnston in Vancouver.
In addition, Gaio just received one of the most coveted scholarships in air cadets - the International Summer Exchange. Gaio was chosen from hundreds of applicants and has been selected to go to New Zealand in July where he will be staying with various squadrons of the Royal New Zealand Air Cadets.
He has an incredible trip in store, including flying on an Iroquois helicopter, bungee jumping, a jet boat trip, sledding, luging, glow worm caves and more.
Several other cadets have received scholarships across Canada this summer.
