WHERE ARE THEY NOW: FROM A CADET TO A CANADIAN POLICE OFFICER - STEVE LONG

• When and where did you first join the Navy League? Which corps we’re you a part of?

 I joined RCSCC Admiral Nelles, Brantford, Ontario, in October 1982

• What did you like most about your experience as a Navy League/Sea cadet?

 I was a cub and boy scout prior to joining the Cadet system and I immediately found Cadets to be more structured and with more discipline. I needed that in my young life and the Cadet program completely fulfilled it. I have so many positive experiences I cannot limit to just one. I met my best friend and wife in the Cadet program, along with most of our close group of friends too. Our children both attended the Cadet program and had great careers. I was extremely fortunate to be selected to spend six weeks deployed on the HMCS Margaree, the fall of 1987, where I travelled across the arctic circle, saw the fjords of Norway, and spent time in Germany and England. I finished the Cadets program at the highest rank possible, Chief Petty Officer First Class.

• Could you share with us a pleasant memory or an anecdote about your time at the Navy League?

 I have way too many funny stories, late nights on fire picket playing pranks on other cadets. Our Corps trip to Norfolk Va. to visit the US naval base and the shenanigans we got into. The many trips on buses to competitions singing all the old navy songs.

• How did the cadet program influence you throughout your life?

 The cadet program instilled essential values in me, so many that when I left the Cadet program, I joined the Canadian armed forces, regular component. I did join the army as my time at sea showed me I liked the land better. The skills from the Cadets program carried on into my CAF career and ultimately into my policing career. I have just completed 20 years as a police officer, which includes a one year deployment through the RCMP to Ukraine.

• What skills did you gain as a Cadet that you’re still using today?

 I learned leadership, dress and deportment along with many other genuine life skills that have made me the person I am today. I am a Police instructor in many areas that wouldn't be possible without my Cadet training.

• How did you decide what you wanted to do with your life? Was the Navy League a key player in this decision?

I always wanted to be a police officer or to serve in the forces, the Cadet program opened my eyes to the true value of the forces and all the opportunities it had. Without my time in the Cadet program and the forces I would never have achieved my dream of being a olice officer and to have deployed overseas.
 

• What personal achievements are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my deployment on the HMCS Margaree, not many Cadets get this opportunity. I am proud to have made my dreams come true with Policing and to continue to serve the citizens of Canada proudly.