Sometimes it pays off to do what your mom tells you.
Such was the case with Cole Greenlees, a 16- year-old air cadet who recently received the Duke of Edinburgh silver award.
“My mom wanted me to join air cadets five years ago,” he said. “It was the best decision she ever made for me.”
Greenlees, a congenial teen who is in Grade 11 at Rimbey High School, is a member of the 65 Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets Ponoka. He received his award last month from Lietuenant Governor Lois Mitchell at a special ceremony held in Edmonton.
The award involves a process of learning a new skill, doing community service, being involved in a physical activity and taking an adventurous journey.
“It takes a lot of time,” said Greenlees. “It’s a big achievement to get there.”
The teen volunteered with the Rimbey Boys and Girls Club as part of his community service.
As part of the physical activity required for the award he became a member of a martial arts club called European Swordsmanship.
“I very much enjoy it,” he said. “It teaches discipline and self empowerment.”
Another component of obtaining his silver award was pursuing his aviation studies.
“Aviation is a passion for me. It is really cool,’ he said.
Greenless is now working on obtaining his gold Duke of Edinburgh award.
He is determined to forge ahead to this level and plans to continue his work as a volunteer with the Boys and Girls Club and pursue cross country running to help him achieve this goal.
He also plans to continue with his aviation studies and obtain his pilot’s license.
The busy teen still finds a few hours each week to work at the Empress Coffee Shop.
The Duke of Edinburgh award is available to anyone ages 14 to 24. It is comprised of three levels — bronze, gold and silver.