AWESOME VOLUNTEER: Leading with Honour: An Interview with SLt Matthew Batten
February 23rd 2024
AWESOME VOLUNTEER:Leading with Honour: An Interview with SLt Matthew Batten, Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Officer of the Year 2023
In the world of service and leadership, there are those whose dedication and commitment shine brightly, inspiring others along their path. Such is the case with SLt Matthew Batten, who recently received the esteemed title of Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Officer of the Year for 2023. His journey is one of unexpected recognition, steadfast service, and a deep-seated commitment to the values of the Navy League of Canada and leading youth. Join us as we delve into SLt Batten's story, exploring his beginnings, his perspectives on leadership, and his vision for the future of the Sea Cadet community.
Congratulations on being named the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Officer of the Year for 2023! How did you feel when you learned about this prestigious recognition?
To be honest, you could have knocked me over with a feather. With zero prior knowledge, I was totally surprised. My suspicions only arose when prominent Navy League executives, whom I had only read about, started congratulating me by my first name. I was actually confused about why I was being honoured, considering the many outstanding individuals working diligently in the program.
How did you get involved with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets?
As I was approaching age 40, I had the desire to serve in uniform once again. Upon the insistence of my close friend Tony Beresford, I was recruited by Barb Murray and John Hunter in Bowmanville, ON. Despite having worn a light blue uniform previously, I had always admired the Navy blue. Coming from Newfoundland with some exposure to water, I found the whole community and environment to be just an excellent, accommodating fit.
One of the most important questions potential volunteers have is whether they need a military/Navy background to join the as a volunteer. What's your response to this?
While previous service can provide valuable context, regardless of background, we're all continuously learning and striving for self-improvement. Notwithstanding our experience, we'll all face challenges and make mistakes; I've certainly had my fair share. But how we address and learn from these errors is what truly defines us as adults and leaders on our journey. Challenge yourself to be better: Reach out to our regular and reserve forces personnel, who are often eager to help you gain the necessary corporate knowledge for success. Remember, we're all just standing on the shoulders of giants.
As a role model within the Cadet Programme, what advice would you give to someone interested in joining the Cadet Program but may have reservations or uncertainties about the commitment? How can potential recruits overcome these hesitations and embrace the opportunity to serve and lead?
Joining us means becoming part of something much greater than yourself. While the scale may seem humbling, the act of public service towards your peers and larger communities should be seen as one of the noblest pursuits an individual can undertake. Much more than the conveyance of knowledge, you'll have the ability to effect generational positive change by encouraging personal and ethical growth within your people. Though it may require a moderate time commitment, consider it an investment not only in your own growth but also in our collective prosperity for the future.
Finally, is there anything you would like to express to the Navy League community, your fellow officers, or the broader public in light of receiving this prestigious award?
The youth we work with or support are the greatest creations and most cherished possessions of their parents or guardians. These parents trust us wholeheartedly to provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment in their absence, where their children can grow and develop their abilities. It's a significant responsibility entrusted to us as leaders in the community, and it's essential to approach this challenge with the utmost respect it deserves. Together, we have the opportunity to nurture individuals who can achieve far more than we ever could. Whenever you're unsure of your motives, always remember the principle of "Service Before Self."
In the world of service and leadership, there are those whose dedication and commitment shine brightly, inspiring others along their path. Such is the case with SLt Matthew Batten, who recently received the esteemed title of Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Officer of the Year for 2023. His journey is one of unexpected recognition, steadfast service, and a deep-seated commitment to the values of the Navy League of Canada and leading youth. Join us as we delve into SLt Batten's story, exploring his beginnings, his perspectives on leadership, and his vision for the future of the Sea Cadet community.
Congratulations on being named the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Officer of the Year for 2023! How did you feel when you learned about this prestigious recognition?
To be honest, you could have knocked me over with a feather. With zero prior knowledge, I was totally surprised. My suspicions only arose when prominent Navy League executives, whom I had only read about, started congratulating me by my first name. I was actually confused about why I was being honoured, considering the many outstanding individuals working diligently in the program.
How did you get involved with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets?
As I was approaching age 40, I had the desire to serve in uniform once again. Upon the insistence of my close friend Tony Beresford, I was recruited by Barb Murray and John Hunter in Bowmanville, ON. Despite having worn a light blue uniform previously, I had always admired the Navy blue. Coming from Newfoundland with some exposure to water, I found the whole community and environment to be just an excellent, accommodating fit.
One of the most important questions potential volunteers have is whether they need a military/Navy background to join the as a volunteer. What's your response to this?
While previous service can provide valuable context, regardless of background, we're all continuously learning and striving for self-improvement. Notwithstanding our experience, we'll all face challenges and make mistakes; I've certainly had my fair share. But how we address and learn from these errors is what truly defines us as adults and leaders on our journey. Challenge yourself to be better: Reach out to our regular and reserve forces personnel, who are often eager to help you gain the necessary corporate knowledge for success. Remember, we're all just standing on the shoulders of giants.
As a role model within the Cadet Programme, what advice would you give to someone interested in joining the Cadet Program but may have reservations or uncertainties about the commitment? How can potential recruits overcome these hesitations and embrace the opportunity to serve and lead?
Joining us means becoming part of something much greater than yourself. While the scale may seem humbling, the act of public service towards your peers and larger communities should be seen as one of the noblest pursuits an individual can undertake. Much more than the conveyance of knowledge, you'll have the ability to effect generational positive change by encouraging personal and ethical growth within your people. Though it may require a moderate time commitment, consider it an investment not only in your own growth but also in our collective prosperity for the future.
Finally, is there anything you would like to express to the Navy League community, your fellow officers, or the broader public in light of receiving this prestigious award?
The youth we work with or support are the greatest creations and most cherished possessions of their parents or guardians. These parents trust us wholeheartedly to provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment in their absence, where their children can grow and develop their abilities. It's a significant responsibility entrusted to us as leaders in the community, and it's essential to approach this challenge with the utmost respect it deserves. Together, we have the opportunity to nurture individuals who can achieve far more than we ever could. Whenever you're unsure of your motives, always remember the principle of "Service Before Self."
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