WHITEWATER REGION (Beachburg) — A young Beachburg man who has development issues has proven he can achieve greatness, but it doesn’t come without lots of work and plenty of support.
Israel Hallock, 17, has autism spectrum and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). Autism spectrum affects communication and behaviour.
However, with the help of his parents, Jim and Wendee Hallock, as well as teachers and those in command at Pembroke cadets, Israel has come a long way.
His mom said they strongly believe that while the school is in charge of his scholastic education, it was up to them as parents to teach the social education.
“We decided to put him into an environment that automatically makes him a member of a team, she said.
Israel was enrolled in 2677 – 42nd Field Artillery Regiment Army Cadet Corps three years ago and since then, has earned numerous promotions and awards. His most notable achievements are in marksmanship, where he placed second in the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association; was first in Fullbore Marksman 1 at Connaught and was the top marksmen of Canadian and British cadets.
Israel is able to focus on what he is aiming and shooting at, his mom said.
Israel has learned to master a variety of marksmanship rifles, including the original one for cadets, 22, which they take to the range and the C11, which is a competitive long-range rifle and C12, which is used for wind and drop firing.
Other awards he has earned include Mock Tower Wings and Commanding Officer’s Commendation.
His mom noted while those with autism spectrum are usually socially awkward, Israel has learned how to deal with various social situations and overcome most situations. But, it hasn’t been without help, she added.
Capt. Dylan Longpre and wife, 2nd Lt. Joannie Longpre, squadron secretary Debbie McLeese and Capt Lindsey Capelli have helped and supported Isreal.
Laughing, Ms. Hallock said, “They supported and nurtured him, and yes, even held his feet to the fire when it needed to be done.”
As for Capt. Capelli, his mom said, “This woman had the patience of a saint teaching Israel all the ins and outs of the Quarter Master job.”
For the past two years, he has been Quarter-Master, which means he issues out clothing and supplies.
During the annual ceremonial review held this past Sunday, Israel was promoted from Sergeant to Warrant Officer. He has come up from the ranks of Cadet, Gunner, Bombarier, Master Bombadier, Sergeant and now Warrant Officer.
Also on Sunday, he was presented with Top Attendance, Marksmanship Proficiency and Master Cadet Star Level Proficiency Award. Attendance is not only for attending cadets each Tuesday evening, but various other events, including fundraisers, volunteer work and camping.
While Israel enjoys marksmanship the most, he admits there’s so much more to cadets, including, making new friends, learn and experience new skills and explore. As an example, he noted he has parachuted jump from a mock tower, which his father helped build years ago, earning him his Mock Tower Wings.
“Children with development issues can achieve greatness,” Ms. Hallock said.
She noted Israel is not the only cadet with development issues, however, with the support they receive, they are able to rise through the ranks at their own speed, or even stay where they are. Israel has come so far he is able to teach his peers.
“Cadets provide young people with the opportunity of being with students from other schools, and people of all ages, backgrounds and faiths,” she said. “They work together as one group.”
Cadets has allowed Israel to earn personal achievements, develop confidence, build his character and learn about teamwork.
“Cadets is like a good baseball game,” Ms. Hallock said. “You work as an individual and as a team, but you need both to achieve greatness.”
For the past few summers, Israel has attended Connaught Ranges camp as a camper, while last year and this year, he has worked as a staff member.
Cadets also provides the opportunity for Israel to earn credits towards his high school diploma. He is finishing Grade 11 at Bishop Smith Catholic High School in Pembroke this month.
Ms. Hallock said cadets provides young people the opportunity to become involved at little cost; go camping for free and to learn and experience life.
For more information on 2677 Squadron, go to 2677cadets.ca; email contact@2677cadets or call 613-732-4470 ext. 206.
There are seven requirements to join cadets:
- Be a minimum of 12 years old;
- Be a legal resident of Canada;
- Have your parents permission;
- 4. Have a provincial health card;
- Be medically, physically and psychologically fit;
- Be of good moral character; and
- Be acceptable to the Commanding Officer.
