Cadet Strong (featuring throwback tribute video)

Editor’s note: In honor of the regional cadet camp currently being hosted in Grand Bay, Dominica, we revisit a previously published write-up from the organization Rebuild Dominica and a video featuring Dominica Cadets Corp members, following Tropical Storm Erika in 2015.

Rebuild Dominica has shared a heartfelt video tribute to the Cadets, generously donated to the organization by Dan Feliciano of the Gabriel Christian Law Offices’ Technical Team. The original purpose of this video was to garner support for the Dominica Cadet Corps in its relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Erika in 2015.

The original article from Rebuild Dominica shared that he mission of the Dominica Cadet Corps is to prepare its members to become the vital personnel in the island’s disaster response initiatives. In times of hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, or other emergencies, these cadets serve as the backbone of Dominica’s disaster management. Through their training, cadets cultivate qualities such as courage, leadership, sportsmanship, camaraderie, teamwork, and self-confidence. The activities of the Cadet Corps aim to develop young individuals into nation-builders, fostering awareness of community needs and encouraging meaningful contributions to society, especially towards the underprivileged.

Cadet Corps members are high school students aged between eleven and eighteen.

In the video is exemplified the principle of Koudmen—cooperative self-help—a philosophy deeply rooted in Dominica’s history of successful community development, and what Rebuild Dominica describes as its guiding tenet.

Gabriel Christian, Chairman of Rebuild Dominica, emphasized the importance of this collective spirit, stating:

“At a time when divisive and selfish values have gained ascendancy, the devastation of Erika has taught us that our very survival depends on our being able to look out for the best interests of our friends and neighbors; not just ourselves.”

Dominicans and supporters were urged by the organization to recognize and celebrate the leadership of the Cadet Corps, describing them as “silent giants” who prioritize community service above all else. The video showcases these cadets as they actively participate in disaster relief efforts following Tropical Storm Erika.

About the Dominica Cadet Corps

“The Dominica Cadet Corps‘ objective is to develop qualities of, discipline, equity, reason, faith, democracy, civic duty, leadership, courage, secular outlook, spirit of adventure, sportsmanship comradeship, respectful appreciation of the history of The Commonwealth of Dominica, its people and the importance of its national independence. In addition, the program intends to impart a zealous spirit of initiative and “can-do attitudes” and ideals of selfless service amongst youth to make them useful and loyal citizens of the Commonwealth of Dominica. Each Cadet will be dedicated to strengthening of the fabric of discipline at all schools of which they are a part and at which they are expected to provide exemplary leadership. Every serious country maintains a platform for the systematic diffusion of service to country principles among youth, and the Cadet program intends to achieve that aim.”

About Rebuild Dominica

“Formed at Evangel Assembly Church in Maryland, on August 29, 2015, and to provide relief and recovery to The Commonwealth of Dominica and its stricken people, Rebuild Dominica, Inc. was formed. Through the generosity of Pastor St. Clair Mitchell, and just 2 days after more than 20 Dominicans lost their lives and over 100 more lost their homes, the founding meeting of this nonprofit was held.

Rebuild Dominica is thankful for the efforts of documentary maker, Dan Feliciano of Maryland, for his efforts in capturing the spirit of these young leaders. The contribution of Lieutenant Oneil LeBlanc allowed the video to feature photos of some cadets in action.”