Arctic Bay (Apr 17/06) - The stars shine extra bright in Arctic Bay.

Only five cadets from across the North received their National Star this year, and three were from the tiny North Baffin hamlet.

Geela Arnauymayuq, Hamlet of Arctic Bay Deputy Mayor, presents WO Solomon Oyukuluk with his Cadets National Star. - photo courtesy of Ron Elliott

For a cadet, the National Star is like getting a black belt in karate - it's the highest you can go.

"It's a test of everything," said Ron Elliott, cadet leader.

He isn't kidding. At the trials in Yellowknife, eight cadets endured a written and practical exam for the prestigious tag. They were quizzed on such subjects as public speaking, field craft (like setting up camp,) Canadian knowledge, and the history of cadets. They also had to show they could tie knots and use a map and compass, and they had to teach a classroom and drill lesson. And finally, they were put to a physical fitness test including push-ups, long jumps and many sit-ups.

Arctic Bay teens Bruce Pauloosie, Solomon Oyukuluk and Nathaniel Chouinard stood up to the test.

Elliott, who's been training these guys for years, is more than impressed, but not all that surprised.

"I've known for years that our cadets could obtain this," he said.

Chouinard, 18, has been in cadets for six years. He says the training has changed his life.

"It's taught me leadership skills, how to manage my time and how to conduct myself to people," he said.

His goal is to be a master cadet, which means he will teach other cadets in summer camp.

Oyukuluk, 19, marks getting the star as a huge achievement.

"It's important. I've been in cadets for a while and I have always wanted the highest star. It shows you have the most skills," he said.

As for Pauloosie, 18, he believes this feat is telling of the kind of community Arctic Bay is.

"It feels like we have accomplished a lot in our community and during our cadet career," said Pauloosie.