RCSC CALYPSO FOUNDING COMMITTEE, c. 1955

Second from left, front, Bill Cake, Commanding Officer. Far right, top, Jack Brett, chairman of committee.

In Lamaline, I had my own boys' group. CBL.(Church Boys League) We met every week for various activities and camped every summer on Percy Brook. However, there were many lads who had no such activity. I believed a branch of the Sea Cadets would be a good idea since it would be all inclusive. I discussed the matter with Fr,. Hogan, RC priest in the parish. He was enthusiastic and offered to help in every way possible. Our cooperation in those bad old days was a rare occasion. Like me, he is in his 80s now. but I hope he is still going strong. A finer gentleman, I have never met. It was left to me to meet the top brass in St, John's to seek permission. Not only was I given permission, but I was given far more help than ever I expected. They even provided funds so that we could bus in the lads from the nearby communities. Our area extended from Lord"Cove to Point May. Many of those lads got to see the big world on the outside for the first time., and some found their vocation in the scrummage of so many activities and opportunities . After Fr. Hogan and I left, the group fell apart.

I understand that a new branch of the Sea Cadets had been formed in Lamaline , but under different auspices, different location and different name. RCSC Caslypso seems to be completely forgotten.

What a shame and why??? Many of the dads and grand-dads of the present troop were members of the old Calypso corps. A plaque or banner placed in the new drill hall in memory of that old episode would be most appropriate; not to mention the associated fascinating chapter of our history.
This photo was sent to me by Valere Thornhill, daugter of Bill Cake.