Some heroes don’t wear capes—some wear uniforms, quietly serve their communities, and act when it matters most. Gurmehar Pabla, a high school student from Panorama Ridge Secondary and an active Air Cadet with 278 Cormorant Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron in Surrey, embodies that quiet heroism. On June 6, 2024, during a school trip, Pabla prevented a potential drowning, yielding a moment that would later earn him official recognition from the City of Surrey and applause from Mayor Brenda Locke during a February 2025 council meeting.
“In that moment of crisis, Gurmehar acted selflessly,” Mayor Locke said, acknowledging not only his quick thinking but also the composure and sense of responsibility he demonstrated under pressure. While the community has rightfully celebrated Pabla's bravery, he himself sees the moment with humble simplicity. “It was a time when someone was in need. I didn’t think much of it,” he recalls. “The situation was potentially dangerous. He was struggling and not comfortable. I knew I was a bit more proficient and sustainable in the water, so I stepped in.”
Despite the media attention that followed, Pabla didn’t initially consider the moment to be a big deal. “At first, I thought it was pretty small,” he says. “I didn’t think it’d be that big, but it was covered by the media and many people posted it. It was a pretty big shock. I’m thankful for the recognition and it’s nice to share the story with the community.”
That sense of calm and perspective didn’t come from nowhere. Pabla credits his time in the Canadian Cadet Program for instilling the life skills that helped guide his actions that day. He’s been involved in the cadet movement since the age of nine, starting with the Navy League before transitioning to Air Cadets. “Cadets build self-integrity and leadership. These things become a big part of your life—you don’t even realize it at the time. It’s built my character.”
Captain Amar Tiwana, Commanding Officer of 278 RCACS, wasn’t surprised when he heard about Pabla's heroic actions. “I was really happy! I thought to myself, here’s someone putting their skill to good use,” he says. Amar sees Pabla’s act not just as an individual success, but as part of a broader story. “It’s amazing to see kids from our community stepping up. When youth like Gurmehar succeed, the whole community benefits.”
Surely, Pabla’s approach to the situation was methodical. He stresses the importance of assessing risk before jumping in. Pabla notes, “Many people say think about others first, but it’s important to also think about yourself. Assess where you are and how you can help. The first step is always to evaluate the situation. Call 911 first and then help. If you’re in danger yourself, it’s best to make sure to call for help and then proceed.”
That level-headedness is rare in someone so young, but not surprising for anyone who’s watched Gurmehar Pabla grow within the Canadian Cadet Program. In fact, he’s already been part of high-profile national events. He participated in both the opening and closing ceremonies of the Invictus Games 2025. Pabla has also attended the Basic Aviation and Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor Course at Cadet Training Centers and is a qualified Cadet Correspondent. These experiences speak to the confidence and sense of community that continues to guide him.
Tiwana, who was a cadet himself, has witnessed firsthand the impact of the Canadian Cadet Program and sees mentorship as a lifelong mission. “My focus is giving back,” he says. “What’s the point of success in our personal lives if you can’t use it to uplift others? He beams with pride when speaking about his cadet and highlights that the Canadian Cadet Program provides opportunities for youth to gain valuable skills that build confidence and help pave the way in transition to adulthood. Cadets engage in varied and unique experiences while developing competencies in leadership, citizenship, and physical and mental fitness. He details that the program strives to offer youth a safe, welcoming, and supportive program environment where all feel respected, valued, included, and able to achieve their full potential.
As for Pabla, his aspirations are grounded. He’s set his sights on a career in business, with plans to study accounting and finance. Undoubtedly, no matter where he goes, the lessons of leadership, community service, and humility will continue to be a beacon of light for him. Formative moments have shaped not just his leadership skills, but also his deep sense of service to others, which is a quality that shines through in everything he does.
Pabla's story of quiet bravery isn’t just about saving a life, but also about the power of courage, character, and community. It’s a reminder that heroism doesn’t always arrive with fanfare; sometimes, it’s found in the steady resolve of those who act selflessly when no one expects it. Such actions remind us that leadership can come quietly, and often, from those who simply choose to do the right thing. For Gurmehar Pabla, the deed may have felt small, but its impact will resonate far beyond that one day!
