The Army Cadet League of Canada is proud to announce that Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Geoffrey Reed has been named the 2025 recipient of the Medal of Merit with Walsh Bar for Outstanding Canadian Army Cadet.
It was an evening Reed won’t soon forget. On the night of the virtual announcement, he was out at a restaurant with friends when a mix-up with time zones nearly caused him to miss the call. Realizing the meeting had already begun, Reed raced home, got in uniform and quickly logged onto Zoom, completely unaware that what awaited him was far more than just a cadet meeting.
Reed, who currently serves as the Battery Sergeant Major at 2370 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, was informed of the honour during a virtual meeting Wednesday evening led by Mr. Robert Gill, Executive Director of the Army Cadet League of Canada. In a surprise to both him and his family, who were present on the call, it was announced that Reed had been selected as this year’s Walsh Award recipient. His parents, still in shock by this honour, were able to take a moment to express their pride and joy at seeing their son recognized with one of the most prestigious awards in the Canadian Army Cadet Program.
MWO Reed has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, and commitment to service. In addition to his role as Battery Sergeant Major, he has:
- Earned the Royal Canadian Legion Medal of Excellence (2025)
- Was selected and attended most of his Canadian Forces Basic Parachutist Course, one of the most challenging opportunities available to cadets.
- Maintained exemplary academic performance, including top grades across multiple subjects.
- Volunteered extensively within his community, including supporting Saskatchewan Judo events, assisting veterans, and providing training to local EMS and fire services.
Reed has also received numerous distinctions during his cadet career, including awards for marksmanship, biathlon, and leadership.
The Walsh Award for Outstanding Canadian Army Cadet is presented annually to one cadet who demonstrates exceptional service, leadership, and personal development. The addition of the Walsh Bar further distinguishes the recipient as a cadet who has gone above and beyond in embodying the highest standards of the program.
A formal presentation ceremony is set to be held in Saskatchewan in Fall 2025 to mark this significant achievement.
