Eighty-five middle school students were honored on Tuesday, January 27, at the insignia ceremony for the Defense cadets, by Charles Ange Ginésy, president of the Alpes-Maritimes department.
“Since 2018, over 550 young people have chosen commitment, civic-mindedness, and a spirit of service. An engaged youth is the most beautiful promise of the Republic. They are the heirs and builders of a stronger, more united, and more resilient France.” These are the words of Charles Ange Ginésy, at the opening of the insignia ceremony for the Defense cadets. This year, 85 ninth-grade students from three different schools located in various cities were distinguished by receiving an insignia symbolizing their commitment. The Puget-Théniers section, comprising 24 middle school students from the Auguste-Blanqui and Ludovic-Bréa schools, is led by the local gendarmerie assisted by the PGHM. The Cannes region section gathers 31 middle school students from the Émile-Roux, Les Mimosas, Gérard-Philipe, and Les Mûriers schools, under the supervision of the deputy departmental military delegation of Alpes-Maritimes. Finally, the Nice section, established in September 2021, brings together 30 middle school students from the Port Lympia, Jean-Rostand, and Jean-Giono schools, and is led by the national gendarmerie company of Nice in Alpes-Maritimes.
Initiated by the Ministry of Armed Forces in 2008 in the context of the “Equal Opportunities” plan, this civic program is aimed at middle school students aged 14 to 16 and aims to promote their civic integration. Through a program combining educational activities and visits to local structures, the young people discover the values of the Republic and engagement. The Alpes-Maritimes department gathers the Defense cadets over 16 Wednesdays, during the October-June period, enabling them to broaden their horizons and strengthen their attachment to the ideals that unite the Nation.
Lina, 14 years old: “I am proud of the journey I have accomplished”
One of these students, Lina, shares: “When we were told about the Defense cadets, there were only eight spots available. So I did everything I could to be part of it,” she says, still excited after receiving her badge. “I am proud to be a Defense cadet; it has taught me a lot, especially about historical facts. For me, who would like to pursue law, I find it interesting to explore careers that are also related to the legal field.” “If I compare myself today to another student who hasn’t participated in the Defense cadets civic program, I would say I feel more equipped to understand society,” she adds with emotion. For Lina and other children, it is one of their first certificates, providing the opportunity to discover true moments of joy.
“France is never as great as when it believes in its youth. And today, looking at you, I know she is right to do so!” The words of Charles Ange Ginésy to the Defense cadets resonate. By receiving their insignia, they represent not only their dedication to the Defense cadets program but also their thirst for knowledge, their desire to evolve, and their role in the future society. It’s a source of pride for them, as well as for all those who have faith in the youth.
