Page 32 - Demo

THE BLACK WATCH CADETS
60 YEARS
1953-2013
THE BLACK WATCH (RHR) OF CANADA
CADET CORPS 2497
MONTREAL, QUEBEC
By Michael Harris
The 66th Annual Cadet Review (ACR) of the Black Watch Cadet Corps (2497) took place in Montreal on Saturday, May 30th, 2020. Due to the quarantining effects of the current Covid-19 pandemic, the ceremony was held “virtually,” with all involved participating via “Zoom” technology on their home computers. The event was “emceed” by Civilian Instructor, and former Pipe Major of the Cadet Pipes & Drums, Nolan Cunningham, who directed the proceedings from his home, enabling participation of all involved from their own homes.
ACR 2020
As a first try to cobble together the officers, cadets, parents, and guests, the event was wildly successful, with over 800 ‘hits’ in the first two weeks’ appearance on the Black Watch’s Facebook website – far more people than ever attended the “actual” ACR in person at the Armoury (although it must be said that many videos were taken at the real ceremony by folks with cellphones....). One added benefit of Zoom technology is that this particular ACR will be available, after being properly edited, “virtually” forever. (An historical footnote: a number of the usually clean-shaven officers and Civilian Instructors were sporting ‘quarantine beards.”)
The ACR started with a video of the Cadet Pipes & Drums performing at the 2019 St. Andrew’s Ball under the command of CWO Pipe Major Gabriel Harris. A second video featured the Highland Dancing of WO Makayla Cunningham. As a debutante at the Ball, WO Cunningham wore a floor-length formal gown – in which dress she also played her tenor drum for the Band’s performance, as there wasn’t time to change into her uniform! And, as it happened, Pipe Major Harris was her official Escort for the evening: the P&D were well represented at the Ball, indeed!
BWCC PM Gabriel Harris & WO Makayla Cunningham at 2019 St Andrew’s Ball
BWCC St Andrew’s Ball 2019
32