JASON SETNYK
A long-serving leader with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets was recognized in Cornwall as Lt(N) David Barkley marked more than four decades of service with RCSCC Stormont.
Held at the Cornwall Armoury, the afternoon celebration brought together former cadets, families, military members, and community leaders to honour Barkley’s 43-year contribution to youth development, leadership training, and music education.
Barkley’s journey began in 1973, when he joined Sea Cadets as a teenager. “I immediately wanted to be a drummer, but the corps had too many drummers… so they forced a bugle into my hand,” he recalled with a smile. That moment led to what he described as “five decades of working with the cadet program, and more than four of them as an officer training young people.”
Central to his legacy is the corps’ music program, which he helped build into a highly regarded training environment. “We are now definitely the best equipped and one of the most advanced music training programs east of Toronto,” Barkley said, noting the support of sponsors and the success of former cadets.
That impact was evident during the event, where past students reunited to perform several musical pieces, including O Canada. Barkley was visibly moved as he listened, with tears in his eyes. He then joined them on trumpet for one selection before stepping forward to conduct the final performance.
Reflecting on his career, Barkley said the most meaningful recognition has come from former cadets. “The greatest acknowledgement is every time I meet a young adult who tells me, ‘I wouldn’t have been who I am if I hadn’t met you.'”
Though retiring from uniform due to age requirements within the Canadian Armed Forces, Barkley plans to remain involved. “I will still continue to teach music here as a civilian volunteer,” he said. “It’s going to be sad to turn that page, but we’ll move on to bigger and better things.”
Dignitaries in attendance included Justin Towndale, Nolan Quinn, and Bernadette Clement, all of whom spoke about Barkley’s impact. Towndale praised his commitment, calling it “unmatched, a phenomenal achievement,” and thanked him “on behalf of our residents and council.”
Quinn highlighted Barkley’s influence on youth development. “He’s shown not only leadership to our community, but to the youth below him, making sure the next generation is prepared with the skills that are needed.”
Clement reflected on a personal memory from her time as mayor, when Barkley and the cadet band helped shape a civic ceremony. “It was just lovely to have young people and Dave entertain us, but also teach us about the importance of music and how joyful that can be.”
For former cadets, Barkley’s influence extended well beyond music. Laurie-Anne Bartlett, who trained under him from 1994 to 2001, described him as “an amazing mentor… he’s always had great leadership and inspired me to continue.” Now, her son is part of the same program.
“He definitely inspires youth to do their best,” she added. “That’s something I’ve carried with me my whole life.”
The event recognized Barkley’s decades of service and his impact on generations of cadets.
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