Group III, Texas Wing - SWR-TX-030

 Civil Air Patrol     U.S. Air Force Auxiliary 

More than meets the skies . . .

Newsletter - December, 2007

How Murky, the Clear Crystal Ball...

In 1949, when Erik Arthur Blair better known by his pen name of George Orwell published his critically acclaimed but much-maligned novel "Nineteen Eighty-Four" (or "1984" for short), the manuscript had been in gestation for 15 years. (Even elephant calves take only 2 years to be born.) The germinal thoughts in "1984" grew out of Adolf Hitler's rise to power in 1932, his ruthless pursuit of political and personal gain, Europe's unsettled political scene in the early part of the 1930s, Stalin's despotic and totalitarian regime that paralyzed Russia and wrapped its citizens in a shroud of total, abject fear, and Mussolini's grip on Italy and his 1936 invasion of Ethiopia with wide-spread use of weapons of mass destruction. Orwell had intended to finish the book by 1934, but events kept delaying its completion and further shaping the author's point of view the Spanish Civil War exploded into senseless carnage (exemplified by the shocking aerial bombing of Guernica in 1937), WW II plunged the world into a total conflict that, in the end, was not completely resolved, and soon thereafter its step-child, the Cold War, descended upon Europe and the world giving birth to Winston Churchill's famous "Iron Curtain" speech of 5 March, 1946, delivered at Westminster College, in Fulton, MO.

Although a novel, "1984" was written as an allegorical essay decrying totalitarianism in all its forms, and a harbinger of things to come. In this work, Orwell expressed his fears and premonitions, in an eerie prediction of what a gradual erosion of personal freedom, over a fifty-year span, could produce. When it was finally published in 1949, the world that Orwell's book described was so bizarre that many considered it outrageous. Yet, some countries' leaders read it for what it was a harsh critique of the inherent cruelty of totalitarian regimes and banned it. Was "1984" prophetic, then, or only a literary fantasy? Was George Orwell the only one to look that far into the future, going out on a limb with concrete statements? Certainly not.

Americans, long blessed with national and personal freedom, took theirs for granted and concentrated on gadgets instead. American culture in the 1930s preferred to express its opinions indirectly. Comic books and comic strips were the preferred vehicle for crystal-balling of note. Take Dick Tracy, for instance. A radio receiver was a barely reliable, bulky and sputtering contraption in 1931, when cartoonist Chester Gould created the strip and published it to everyone's delight. In 1946, when transistors the size of a chick pea were not yet in production, Dick Tracy started wearing and using his "2-Way Wrist Radio," a device much smaller than the smallest radio tube available at that time, and there were no batteries small enough that could have powered anything that size. Television was in its infancy in 1964, when Tracy's trade-mark device was upgraded to a "2-Way Wrist TV." Was Chester Gould a scientist? A kind of visionary? Or just a man who relished dreaming the impossible and, accidentally becoming the intellectual father of the cell phone and portable video devices we enjoy today?

For years, the joke was that a bumblebee, according to the laws of aerodynamics, simply couldn't fly – yet it does. That was 30 years ago. Now, Delft University students threw out all preconceived ideas and created a flying insect-spy, as have MIT students. The latter weighs in at a mere 60 milligrams (there are 32,000 milligrams in one ounce), and these micro-creations do actually fly, even if for a short time. And yes, they can spy on you, me, and everyone – although at vast expense. (Fortunately, I firmly believe not to be worth that cost.)

Now NASA is celebrating its 50th year, and has created an essay competition, asking students in grades 6 through 9 to describe the world of NASA in 2057. Would I like to be on that panel of judges? You bet.

When it comes to time-line measuring, it would seem that 50 is a magical number. But today's crystal ball is not as clear as it used to be.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Group Staff Messages

Group Commander

A Christmas Recap

We aced our SUI, we hosted a bunch of SAREX's, we helped provide staffing for a number of activities, and we had some fun along the way (or so I hope).

Well, I tried.

The truth is, I could never summarize all the work done by and the value of Group III in a newsletter article. But I do know the work we've done. And I do know the value we've added to our communities, state and nation. And so do you. It doesn't matter if there weren't really any hurricanes or wildfires to respond to. It doesn't matter if you didn't get called to go on the Steve Fossett search (but a couple of you did). It doesn't matter that you didn't get called for an ELT mission (though many of you were).

The glory of it is not why any of us is here, and that's a good thing too, because there's just not much glory in making sure that the oil got changed in the van, or your safety reports made it into WMU, or you're going to attend (or even direct) an SLS, or preparing your aerospace education report, or working as a mission staff assistant at a SAREX. But, you know what? All of that was necessary in order for Group III to work properly. All of us, together, we made Group III work in all the little ways that count.

And we will continue to stand up and do our inglorious jobs, with the vigilance that our National motto demands of us, so that we are ready to serve when called.

And that's what it's really all about, isn't it?

For the holiday season, the gift I offer you is the certain knowledge that you really did make a difference this year. I know it. And you know it. And as long as we know it, that's what really matters.

Merry Christmahanawanzikas.

Lt Col Owen Younger, Commander
Tertia semper primoris

Group Commander's Commentary

 

A Sad Reminder for Us All

Even as we grieve for the loss of two experienced and productive CAP members, please take a moment to consider the depth of flight experience that these men had. Between them they had 55,000 hours of flight time, and both men had combat experience in the US Air Force.

In Civil Air Patrol we do not go out of our way to take risks, but risk is inherent in the nature of what we do. Sometimes this risk can catch up to us. Even for good people with overwhelming experience and a proven record of careful attention to detail.

  • Please keep in mind that a safe outcome can never be taken for granted.

  • Please consider Operational Risk Management in everything that you do.

  • Please remember the dedication to service that these two members exemplified.

Lt Col Owen Younger, Commander

Tertia semper primoris

Group Commander - New Staff Appointments

 

New Chief of Staff, Dallas CS Commander

I am excited to announce additional staff changes within Group III.

Effective Immediately, Capt Eric Martin will assume the role of Group III Chief of Staff.

Sometime near the end of January, the Dallas Composite Squadron will undergo a change of command. Capt Eric Martin, the current commander, will immediately begin transitioning command duties to 1st Lt Brendan Goss, with the formal command change occurring in January. As part of Lt Goss' s transition to command of the Dallas Squadron, he has given up his duties as Group III Flight Operations Officer, effective at this time.

Both of these individuals have shown exceptional commitment to CAP and to our missions, and I look forward to their continuing success in their new roles. Please join me in congratulating both of them.

While this transition of responsibilities has filled one position on Group Staff, is has created another. Anyone interested in serving as the Group III Flight Operations Officer should contact Maj Laurie Lancaster and Lt Col Owen Younger.

Once again, congratulations to Capt Martin and Lt Goss!

Lt Col Owen Younger, Commander

Tertia semper primoris

Aerospace Education

This is a wonderful opportunity for middle and junior high students in grades 6 through 9. The essay must be written in 500 words or less, and students may pick between two topics. Full details are published on the NASA website

The competition opened on October 15, 2007, a Notice of Intent is due by December 7, 2007 (this is a promise to write the essay) and the final entry is due on or before January 7, 2008. Read the rules carefully.

Home-schooled students may compete as well. Visit the link above and start thinking. Then do your best in developing your ideas and writing the essay.

Good luck!

Another NASA Aeronautics Essay Competition for Academic Year 2007-2008

This essay competition, just announced, is open to both high school and college students, and asks them to describe the ideal cargo/passenger air transport for the mid-21st century. To help them focus on the issue, they pose as an example the seemingly perennial DC-3, which has been probably the most successful example of reliability, suitability, and cost-effectiveness of its day.

High school students will compete in their own category, while college students will be required to delve deeper into the technical aspects of their proposed "ideal transport" for mid-century. For full details, please visit this page at the NASA website.

Ch (Maj) Ron Whitt, AEO

Cadet Programs

Wreaths Across America, 15 December, 11 am

Calling all Cadets and Seniors You are cordially invited to attend the "Wreaths Across America" event at the DFW National Cemetery. The ceremony will begin at 11 am on Sat, 15 Dec where we will honor fallen veterans. The Group III Honor Guard will present the Colors, but we still need a person willing to play "Taps." The "Wreaths Across America" mission is to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach our children the value of freedom.

Please join us for this important event. If you would be willing to play Taps or for more information, please call 2d Lt Don Gulliksen, phone 972-394-8871

National Cadet Special Activities

All cadets interested in fun and exciting things to do this summer need to check out the opportunities available through Civil Air Patrol National Activities.  Next summer, there are over 30 different schools/academies available for cadets and seniors. 

I would encourage eligible cadets (and seniors) to sign up for an NCSA event. However, be aware that there are some major changes in the NCSA application process this year.

  • Deadlines for applications have changed. In years past, the application dates were from 1 Nov through 31 Dec. This year, applications for most activities will only be accepted from 1 December 2007 through 15 January 2008.

  • Encampment Pre-Requisite. The cadet regulation (CAPR 52-16, ch 4) limits NCSAs to cadets who have completed encampment. Beginning this year, cadets must have graduated encampment at the time of application.

  • NCSA applications may be submitted in e-services, a printed copy must go to the squadron commander for approval, who needs to submit it to Wing.

  • Make sure to look over and understand the new slotting process.

For a list of events and application requirements please visit the CAP National site.

Fall CTEP/STEP, 23-25 November

Fall CTEP/STEP has come and gone again this year. I was very proud to see the number of Group III Cadets and Seniors who took time out of their holiday weekend to participate. Despite the rainy weather and cold temperatures, I think everyone did an outstanding job this year. 

Holiday Wishes

I would like to extend my special holiday wishes to all Cadets and Seniors working in Cadet Programs. It is through your hard work and dedication that we are able to achieve a successful cadet program in our Group. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season, and I look forward to working with all of you next year.

Group III CP Staffing Needs

Group III Cadet Programs needs a few good people with managerial skill to be project officers for group-wide events over the next year. Applicants need not be cadet programs officers to apply. If you or anyone you know would like to help make Group III Cadet Programs the best in Texas, please e-mail me.

1st Lt Opal McKinney, CPO

Letter on Cadet Participation in Emergency Services Missions, 7 July

Please read an important policy letter from the National Commander.

Col Joe R. Smith, TXWG CC

Chaplain

A Change of Duty

Our beloved Chaplain (Maj) Ron Whitt has accepted the position of Texas Wing Chaplain, which had been briefly vacant as a result of Chaplain (Lt Col) Nancy Smalley's acceptance of her new post at Southwest Region. Rather than abandoning Group III, Ch. Whitt has now embraced all of Texas Wing. A larger flock is his.

So for this month, since a replacement for Ch. Whitt has not been found, I've selected a message written by U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Capt.) Charles Bellamy, 50th Space Wing Chapel Service Team, Colorado Springs, CO, on the subject of "What makes a wingman?"

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Chief of Staff

Open Group III Staff Positions

Position Title Job Description Vacancy Date Contact
Aerospace Education Officer Click here Now Chief of Staff
Chaplain Click here Now Group CC
Flight Operations Officer Click here Now Maj Laurie Lancaster; Group CC
Stan Eval Officer Click here Now Maj Laurie Lancaster; Group CC

Capt Eric Martin, CS

Communications

 

Adaptive Wireless Nets

The benefits of micro-miniaturizing electronic components used in designing innovative radio systems are beginning to pay handsome benefits, opening the possibility of bypassing interference, instantly seeking and finding a clear channel, maintaining security protocols, and assuring positive wireless contact at all times. All of it automatically, of course. Called "adaptive wireless networking," it constitutes a major breakthrough in radio net technology.

Not too long ago, the vagaries of radio communications could produce startling results. This writer was on military maneuvers in the field when the major headquarters' radio net was disrupted by some rather picturesque language, coming in at a very high volume and with notable clarity. The chatter severely curtailed the subordinate units' ability to communicate and coordinate operations with their headquarters. As the person responsible for the Net Control Station, I cut in and cautioned the intruder that he was transmitting on a reserved military frequency. "Buddy," was his immediate reply, "go take a hike. I'm jus' makin' a livin' – if yah don' like, lump it." It turned out that his taxicab company's radio channel (in Boston, no less) had neatly piped the cabbie's transmission not just to his Boston dispatcher but also to Fort Hood, TX.

Anyone who's worked with two-way radios for some time has had similar experiences. Most are comical, but at times they can be highly disruptive and seriously harmful. The basic principle behind adaptive wireless networking is the creation of a wireless computer network that maintains seamless data transmission (voice, images, or any other digital signal) without being restricted to a set channel. Instead, a range of frequencies are made available and, within that range, any transmitter finds the channel that works best, and all receivers adapt to this change – for all practical purposes, instantly, without any loss in the data stream.

Civil Air Patrol units are currently testing this kind of equipment, which is surprisingly small, efficient, and relatively inexpensive. Last summer, fielding was limited to Region level, but it is expected that it will eventually trickle down to the smallest squadron or independent flight participating in a CAP mission. The immediate payback is that other agencies fitted with similar equipment will be able to communicate with CAP units no matter how bad the sun spots happen to be on that day, or how much radio traffic there might be on the net. Radio communications being what they are, some channels are heavily used, while others lie idle for long periods of time. This equipment is designed to evenly distribute the traffic load across the allowable spectrum.

This link to an article published in Network World is an interesting update on the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's efforts to develop a rugged, inexpensive, and reliable hand-set (price point: $500.00) capable of keeping every unit, no matter how small, linked to the command channel. Fielding this equipment is expected to improve operations and save American lives in the battlefield. The same technology, used for civilian emergency response, would help manage field assets, speed assistance to the stricken, ease communication between the sorties and the Incident Command Post, and shorten the time to recovery.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

DDR

New DDR Reporting Requirement

This message is intended for Group and Squadron Commanders, Deputy Commanders for Cadets, Drug Demand Reduction Officers, Cadet Programs Officers, and anyone else with information about your unit's Drug Demand Reduction activities over the past year.

I know end-of-year reporting is one of the least exciting things we do, but we still need to get it done. Please review the attached report, and respond accordingly.

I also know it is short notice, but I was just informed that I have to create a wing wide report for national in the next few days, so I'll appreciate all the help you can offer me. I understand that you may have no information for many of the items. I am also aware that some units don't do much if anything with DDR. All of that is OK for now. I just need to gather all the answers as to who has been doing what. Then, in the coming months, I'll use that as a baseline to build the program throughout the wing.

For now, just send what info you have to my email address. I, and I alone, will only use your answers to compile my summary report to National HQ.

By the way, I would rather get responses from multiple people in a unit than no response at all, so if you have even partial info about your unit, please send it. 

Thanks for your quick help with this!!

Maj John S. Ureke, TXWG DDRA

Finance

Group III Patch Available

     Are you on Group III Staff? Wear the Group III Staff patch proudly. At $5.00 each, they are a bargain and show your commitment to Group III and the CAP program. (Click on the image for a larger view.)

Group III Coins Available

     Our mint has delivered a batch of new Group III Commemorative Coins, and you may own as many as you wish, for $10.00 each. They make wonderful gifts for your loved ones ... or even yourself. (Click on the images for larger views of the obverse and reverse.)

To purchase either Group III Patches or Group III Coins, please contact Maj Laurie Lancaster - laurielancaster@yahoo.com

Maj Laurie Lancaster, FO

Honor Guard

Dallas Veteran’s Day Parade, 10 November

DALLAS, TX – The Group III Honor Guard was well represented in the Dallas Veteran’s Day Parade with both a flag element and a rifle element, as they led a formation of CAP cadets drawn from numerous squadrons around the Dallas area. The parade route worked its way through downtown Dallas, along Main Street to Ervay, and then past the review stands at Dallas City Hall. 

1. 2.

[1] The Group III Honor Guard leads a formation drawn from several squadrons in the Dallas area. [2] The Group III Rifle Element in formation at the Dallas Veterans' Day Parade.

Although the CAP formation was placed rather far back in the parade, it was worth the wait as many spectators cheered their approval as the cadets marched past them. For more on the parade, please see the Black Sheep Composite Squadron article below.

Dallas Model A Ford Club, 11 November

DALLAS, TX – The Group III Honor Guard presented the colors  and led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance, as over 20 veterans were honored for their service to America at the Dallas Model A Ford Club. Various civic organizations and schools request the services of the Group III Honor Guard and we try to accommodate them as frequently as possible. 

Earlier in the month, the Honor Guard visited a school in Frisco, presented the colors, and taught the students proper flag handling and etiquette. 

Coming Events for December

On 1 December the Honor Guard will lead the Nieman-Marcus Adolphus Children’s Parade in downtown Dallas.

On 15 December, the Honor Guard will present the colors at the Wreaths Across America ceremony. Wreaths Across America is a nationwide CAP event. Our local ceremony will be held at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, beginning at 11:00

Join the Honor Guard

For more information on joining the Group III Honor Guard please contact C/Capt McKinney or 2d Lt Don Gulliksen.

2d Lt Don Gulliksen, HGO

Inspector General

Inspection Status

Due to Capt Manley's slow recovery, there are no inspections scheduled at this time. He is expected to be back among the movers and shakers soon, and he'll put together a new schedule at that time.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Inspection Schedule

Charter # Unit Name Date Comment
TX-352 Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron 21 April  
TX-030 Group III 5 May  
TX-376 Waxahachie Composite Squadron 4 August  
TX-390 Addison Composite Squadron & TCA Flight 9-10 June  
TX-148 Waco Composite Squadron 14 July  
TX-391 Dallas Composite Squadron Day TBD September  
TX-351 Pegasus Composite Squadron 11 August  
TX-133 Irving Composite Squadron Early 2008  
TX-803 Red Oak Oaks Cadet Squadron 17 November  
TX-076 Crusader Composite Squadron Day TBD September  

Capt Steve Manley, IG


Civil Air Patrol Ethics Policy

On 25 August 2005, the National Commander issued this policy letter as a guide for all CAP members. Please make sure that you understand it, implement it, and remain vigilant concerning any violations.

Inspection Schedules

Unit inspection schedules are now posted on the Group III website's Squadron Support / Inspector General page.

Capt Steve Manley, IG

Professional Development

“Man’s flight through life is sustained by the power of his knowledge.”
    
– Legend inscribed on the granite base, USAF Academy "Eagle and Fledgling" statue

This month, let's touch upon a subject that many would rather leave alone, and so they choose to ignore it. But ignorance is not bliss – rather, it's a terrible handicap. So here we go.

These are the top three reasons why members don't renew:

1. Poor leadership

2. Lack of activity or training

3. Lack of meaningful duty assignment. 

Communication is the key to success in any organization. By regularly encouraging senior members and cadets to complete their training courses, using that knowledge to their fullest potential within their units and wings, we'll be more successful in keeping our most valuable asset – the volunteer. 

This month I’ll start with the basics for the new PDO.

Learn the Regulations, and learn where to best place the Officer to suit the unit's needs. While so doing, build upon the member's interest and potential, which leads to job satisfaction.

Regulations You Need to Know:

Please read these regulations and become familiar with their content. The more you know, the better off you will be. Since a leader needs to lead by example, when you're in the "training business" it's a good idea to start by seeking training for yourself.

1st Lt Vanessa Smith, PDO
 tx438pdo@yahoo.com

Public Affairs Healing the Wounds

The Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Wall

November 9, 2007 – WASHINGTON – At a time when wounds and memories of a long and bitterly protested war were still open and raw; when veterans were treated as villains instead of heroes, Army veteran Jan Scruggs conceived the idea of building a memorial to honor those who served in Vietnam.

     Facing more opposition than support, those who believed in the vision saw it through to the end. Tuesday marks the 25th anniversary of the realization of that vision: the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial. The Memorial is today a symbol of healing for some, and an affirmation of valor and sacrifice for others.

To carry out his vision, Mr. Scruggs called on several fellow veterans, including Mr. John Wheeler, who served as a staff officer at Headquarters U.S. Army Vietnam.

"Jan was wounded in Vietnam, and as he lay near death in the jungle, he prayed and said that if he survived he wanted to do 'something useful,'" said Mr. Wheeler, special assistant to the secretary of the Air Force. "Years later, after watching a movie that reminded him of fellow soldiers from his platoon who had been killed in Vietnam, he began pitching the idea of building a memorial with the names of all who were missing or killed in the war."

Robert Doubek, a lawyer and former Air Force officer, helped Mr. Scruggs incorporate the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Fund. "From its inception, the memorial faced strong opposition and skepticism," Mr. Wheeler said.

     "Jan held a press conference and said he wanted to raise a million dollars to build the memorial," said Mr. Wheeler. "I first heard about it on the news when a reporter said he'd only raised $144.50. When I saw the wry smile on that news reporter's face, I had to give Jan a call. He came to visit me, and I told him, 'You can do this. There are people who will help make this happen.' And that's when he asked me to be chairman of the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Fund."

From there came the work of deciding on the memorial's design. The solution was a competition where more than 1,400 designs were submitted and judged by a panel of artists and designers selected by the Memorial Fund. The winning design came from a student at Yale University, Maya Ying Lin.

"I saw the winning design, and felt that the winner, Maya Ying Lin, had a great gift. I thought it was a work of genius," Mr. Wheeler said. "Many, including some veterans, did not agree. Even some who had been major supporters of the memorial from the beginning disliked the design, and there was a huge controversy."

     With memories of the war so fresh in the minds of many Americans, fundraising was slow and opposition high. However, the controversy surrounding the design bred publicity.

"Our opponents came at us as hard as they could, and they made the country pay attention. The fierce fight created a flow of funds, awareness and clarity. We quickly raised the $12 million needed to build the memorial." said Mr. Wheeler. "The opponents put the wall on the map. For that, I'm grateful."

The wall was built in three short years. On November 13, 1982, it opened in Washington D.C. near the Lincoln Memorial, before a crowd of 150,000 people. "When the memorial was built, we began to realize the impact and beauty of what had been created," Mr. Wheeler said.

Today, there are 58,256 names inscribed on the memorial, including 2,583 Airmen. The names begin at the vertex where the walls meet and continue to the end of the east wall, toward the Washington Monument. They resume at the beginning of the west wall and end at the vertex.

"The names are arranged first chronologically by the casualty date, and alphabetically within the date," said Mr. Wheeler, "So, when you go from a name like Young to a name like Andrews, the sun has gone down and then risen on a new day in Vietnam."

The wall also reflects the jointness that military services have displayed in combat for decades. Names of members from the Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard and Army are listed together within the same casualty date.

     "Men killed within the same fight are all displayed within the touch of one hand," Mr. Wheeler explained. "If an Air Force officer flying a Skyraider was killed bringing in a strike, he is listed on the same day with the men he was trying to save. It shows an equality of service and sacrifice."

"On the other hand, when people visit the wall and see their own reflection in that black granite, and they touch the names of people who were killed in a fight that they might have been killed in, there's great power in that; and there's healing," Mr. Wheeler continued. "A pilot can go to a day when he knows he was in a fight and see the names of those he was supporting. While he knows these are members who were killed that day, he also knows there are a lot of names that are not on that wall. The Air Force played a major part in keeping names off the wall."

"Several current Air Force and defense leaders are part of the Vietnam veteran legacy responsible for keeping names off the wall," Mr. Wheeler said. "As a young officer, our Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne was busy with a team at the Air Force Academy putting the first 105 mm guns on the AC-130 gunships that flew over North Vietnam. They made life really rough for the bad guys," he said. "Tragically, Secretary Wynne's own brother, Patrick, was killed in an F-4 over Vietnam."

"Also, the Air Force chief of chaplains Maj. Gen. Charles Baldwin, as a rescue helicopter pilot during Vietnam; kept names off the wall. Deputy chief of staff of personnel Lt. Gen. Roger Brady and Pentagon comptroller official Dave Patterson flew forward air controller missions, which we call the angels on the soldiers' shoulders," said Mr. Wheeler. "Retired Air Force Col. Robert Carter, the fund's executive director, and Terry O'Donnell, a 1966 Air Force Academy graduate, also did some very heavy lifting. Both are Vietnam Vets. Senators John Warner and Charles Mathias were key supporters of the memorial as well."

"Our supporters believed in the mission and stayed with us all the way. They made all the difference," he said.

"The wall speaks to the present as much as to the past," Mr. Wheeler said. Almost daily, sons and daughters who have followed in their parents' footsteps and answered the call of military service visit the memorial. "They are saying, 'Dad, I'm heading to combat,' or, 'Dad, I'm home,'" he added.

"The men and women who serve in today's military and fight today's war ensure the legacy of those whose names are on the wall lives on," Mr. Wheeler said. "I'm so grateful for the privilege of having been a part of the building of the wall. It's a privilege for a trooper to ask an officer for help, and that's what Jan did. He trusted me with his dream, and we got it done."

(Photos Copyright (C) Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Wall.)

Secretary of the Air Force, Office of Public Affairs

Public Affairs CAP Fatalities

 

Civil Air Patrol Leaders Die in Plane Crash, 9 November

Pacific Region director of operations, Nevada Wing commander en route to Rosamond, Calif.

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. – Two nationally recognized and highly regarded members of the Civil Air Patrol – Col. Edwin W. Lewis Jr., director of operations for CAP’s Pacific Region, and Col. Dion E. DeCamp, commander of CAP’s Nevada Wing – died on the  evening of Thursday, 8 November, when their CAP plane crashed south of Las Vegas.

Lewis had traveled to Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas to drop off a CAP airplane to be used as an air show display. When the crash occurred, he and DeCamp were apparently en route to Rosamond, Calif., Lewis’ hometown.

Lewis and DeCamp had enjoyed long and distinguished careers, both in the U.S. Air Force and the Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the Air Force. Most recently, both men were actively involved in the search for legendary American aviator Steve Fossett.

Lewis, 71, had served in the Civil Air Patrol for more than 50 years. He was a former national vice commander, elected in August 1993. He served in that capacity for one year. Before that, he served as Pacific Region commander for four years. He also was California Wing commander from 1978 to 1982.

Lewis was both a CAP and USAF command pilot with more than 28,000 flight hours.

He retired from Pan Am as a commercial airline pilot in 1989 to become a research pilot with NASA. Since 1997, he worked at Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., where he instructed in four aircraft – C-12, C-20A, DC-8 and T-34C – supporting NASA-Dryden flight test programs. He also was the center’s aviation safety officer.

Lewis’ military awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and others, many awarded multiple times. His CAP awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Exceptional and Meritorious Service Awards, Gill Rob Wilson Award, the Search and Rescue ribbon, and others.

He is married to the former Midge Chrestenson. They have two adult sons, Eric and Steven.

Lewis was a region advisor for the Fossett search.

DeCamp, 73, of Reno, Nev., has been commander of the Nevada Wing since 2003. Most recently, he led the wing’s initial search efforts for Fossett, who disappeared on Labor Day during a solo flight in Nevada. The search for Fossett, who has yet to be found, was the largest in the Civil Air Patrol’s modern-day history.

DeCamp is married to CAP Lt. Col. E.J. Smith, who also served as search Incident Commander during the Fossett mission. He is survived by a son, Michael, and two daughters, Kristin and Gayle, all adults.

Col. DeCamp joined CAP in 1994 having served as Nevada Wing director of operations, vice commander, representative to the Nevada state SAR Board and Pacific Region director of operations training before becoming Nevada Wing commander.

DeCamp was a CAP and USAF command pilot with more than 27,000 flight hours, and was retired from the California Air National Guard. He served in Vietnam and flew C-130 missions worldwide. In 1994 he retired from American Airlines as a Captain.

The cause of Thursday evening’s crash is unknown at this time. A full investigation of the crash by the National Transportation Safety Board is scheduled to begin this morning.

“The CAP family is deeply saddened by this tremendous loss,” said Brig. Gen. Amy S. Courter, CAP interim national commander. “There were no finer members than Col. DeCamp and Col. Lewis. Their illustrious volunteer service, which collectively spanned more than seven decades, touched innumerable lives and now, in sorrow, consoles those left behind as a testament to their dedication and commitment to the citizens of their respective communities.”

The Civil Air Patrol was founded on Dec. 1, 1941, less than a week before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor brought the United States into World War II. Today, CAP performs 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and was credited by the AFRCC with saving 105 lives in fiscal year 2007.

In addition to their search and rescue duties, CAP volunteers perform homeland security, disaster relief and counterdrug missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. Members also play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to the more than 22,000 young people currently participating in the CAP cadet program.

Steve Cox, Public Affairs Coordinator, CAP NHQ

Public Affairs Reflections on Thanksgiving Day - A Guest Commentary

 

THE FOUNDATION

“Tomorrow being the day set apart by the Honorable Congress for public Thanksgiving and Praise; and duty calling us devoutly to express our grateful acknowledgements to God for the manifold blessings he has granted us, the General... earnestly exhorts all officers and soldiers, whose absence is not indispensably necessary, to attend with reverence the solemnities of the day.” —George Washington (December 17, 1777)

PATRIOT PERSPECTIVE

The Necessity of Thanksgiving

In this era of overblown political correctness, we often hear tales of Thanksgiving that stray far afield from the truth. Contemporary textbook narratives of the first American harvest celebration portray the Pilgrim colonists as having given thanks to their Indian neighbors for having taught them how to survive in a strange new world. This, of course, is in stark contrast to the historical record, in which the colonists gave thanks to God Almighty, the Provider of their blessings.

The “First Thanksgiving” is usually depicted as the Pilgrims’ three-day feast in early November 1621. The Pilgrims, Calvinist Protestants who rejected the institutional Church of England, believed that the worship of God must originate freely in the individual soul, under no coercion. The Pilgrims left Plymouth, England, on 6 September 1620, sailing to the New World on the promise of opportunity for religious and civil liberty.

For almost three months, 102 seafarers braved the brutal elements, arriving off what is now the Massachusetts coast. On 11 December, before disembarking at Plymouth Rock, the voyagers signed the Mayflower Compact, America’s original document of civil government predicated on principles of self-government. While still anchored at Provincetown harbor, Pastor John Robinson counseled, “You are become a body politic... and are to have only them for your... governors which yourselves shall make choice of.” Governor William Bradford described the Mayflower Compact as “a combination... that when they came a shore they would use their owne libertie; for none had power to command them...”

Upon landing, the Pilgrims conducted a prayer service and quickly turned to building shelters. Malnutrition and illness during the ensuing New England winter killed nearly half their number. Through prayer and hard work, with the assistance of their Wampanoag Indian friends, the Pilgrims reaped a rich harvest in the summer of 1621, the bounty of which they shared with the Wampanoag. The celebration incorporated feasting and games, which remain holiday traditions.

Such ready abundance soon waned, however. Under demands from investors funding their endeavor, the Pilgrims had acquiesced to a disastrous arrangement holding all crops and property in common, in order to return an agreed-to half of their produce to their overseas backers. (These financiers insisted they could not trust faraway freeholders to split the colony’s profits honestly.) Within two years, Plymouth was in danger of foundering under famine, blight and drought. Colonist Edward Winslow wrote, “The most courageous were now discouraged, because God, which hitherto had been our only shield and supporter, now seemed in his anger to arm himself against us.”

Governor Bradford’s record of the history of the colony describes 1623 as a period of arduous work coupled with “a great drought... without any rain and with great heat for the most part,” lasting from spring until midsummer. The Plymouth settlers followed the Wampanoag’s recommended cultivation practices carefully, but their crops withered.

The Pilgrims soon thereafter thought better of relying solely on the physical realm, setting “a solemn day of humiliation, to seek the Lord by humble and fervent prayer, in this great distress.” In affirmation of their faith and providing a great witness to the Indians, by evening of that day the skies became overcast and gentle rains fell, restoring the yield of the fields. Governor Bradford noted, “And afterwards the Lord sent to them such seasonable showers, with interchange of fair warm weather as, through His blessing caused a fruitful and liberal harvest, to their no small comfort and rejoicing. For which mercy, in time convenient, they also set apart a day of thanksgiving.”

Winslow noted the Pilgrims’ reaction as believing “it would be great ingratitude, if secretly we should smother up the same, or content ourselves with private thanksgiving for that, which by private prayer could not be obtained. And therefore another solemn day was set apart and appointed for that end; wherein we returned glory, honor, and praise, with all thankfulness, to our good God, which dealt so graciously with us...” This was the original American Thanksgiving Day, centered not on harvest feasting (as in 1621) but on gathering together to publicly recognize the favor and provision of Almighty God.

Bradford’s diary recounts how the colonists repented of their financial folly under sway of their financiers: “At length, after much debate of things, the Governor (with the advice of the chiefest amongst them) gave way that they should set corn every man for his own particular, and in that regard trust to themselves; in all other things to go in the general way as before. And so assigned to every family a parcel of land, according to the proportion of their number.”

By the mid-17th century, autumnal Thanksgivings were common throughout New England; and observance of Thanksgiving Festivals spread to other colonies during the American Revolution. At other junctures of “great distress” or miraculous intervention, colonial leaders called their countrymen to offer prayerful thanks to God. The Continental Congresses, cognizant of the need for a warring country’s continuing grateful entreaties to God, proclaimed yearly Thanksgiving days during the Revolutionary War, from 1777 to 1783.

In 1789, after adopting the Bill of Rights to the Constitution, among the first official acts of Congress was approving a motion for proclamation of a national day of thanksgiving, recommending that citizens gather together and give thanks to God for their new nation’s blessings. Presidents George Washington, John Adams and James Madison followed the custom of declaring national days of thanks, though it was not officially declared again until another moment of national peril, when during the War Between the States Abraham Lincoln invited “the whole American people” to observe “a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father... with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience.” In 1941, Congress set permanently November’s fourth Thursday as our official national Thanksgiving.

The Pilgrims’ temporary folly of sundering and somersaulting the material as transcendent over the spiritual conveys an important lesson that modern histories are reluctant to tell. The Founders, recognizing this, placed first among constitutionally recognized rights the free exercise of religion—faith through action.

If what we seek is a continuance of God's manifold blessings, then a day of heartfelt thanksgiving is a tiny tribute indeed.

This Thanksgiving, please pray for our Patriot Armed Forces standing in harm’s way around the world, and for their families—especially the families of those fallen Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who have died in defense of American liberty.

On behalf of your Patriot staff and National Advisory Committee, we wish God’s peace and blessings upon you and yours this Thanksgiving.

Mark Alexander, Publisher, Patriot Post

Public Affairs Reflections on Christmas - A Guest Commentary

 

A  Different Christmas Poem  

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The bright sparkling lights in the tree, I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love, I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered,
         perhaps, I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then, the sure sound of footsteps,
         outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow off your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts.
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said, "Its really all right,
I'm here by choice. I'm here every night."

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

"My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed,
         "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers.

"My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam,
And now it's my turn, and so here I am.
I've not seen my son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures,
         he's sure got her smile."

Then he bent
         and tenderly pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.

"I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..

"Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.
So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."

"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

"For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."


Please, would you do me the kind favor of sending this to as many people as you can? Christmas will be coming soon and some credit is due to our American service men and women, who make it possible for us to observe these festivities. Let's try in this small way to pay a tiny bit of what we owe. Make people stop and think of our heroes, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us. Thank you

LCDR Jeff Giles, SC, USN, 30th Naval Construction Regiment
OIC, Logistics Cell One, Al Taqqadum, Iraq

(This item was sent to me by 2d Lt Ralph Williams, Pipe Creek Christian School Cadet Squadron – AW)

Public Affairs Cadet PAO

A New Cadet Voice is Heard

My InBox is an interesting place, where much junk, some important messages, and the occasional pearl lie in a helter-skelter gathering (or rather they're thrown in) simply by date/time of arrival. When I got the article below, I was impressed. C/2d Lt Zachary Whiteley is a perceptive and honest narrator, who makes you feel as if you were there. He is candid to a fault, and careful to give credit where credit is due. Part of this is thanks to his training, since he is the Gregg County's Composite Squadron's cadet commander. But it also comes natural to him.

Home schooled, he is affable and speaks well. The first time he and I had a talk, he expressed an interest in the AF Academy. In a later conversation, he said, "I want to leave my options open." Intent on career progression, he meant to attend the fall Cadet Officer Training Course, but his scheduling wouldn't permit it. He is definite in wanting to take this CAP course in the spring of 2008.

Cdt Whiteley's main hobby involves working with his hands, since he likes to build and fly model airplanes. He also likes to sing (he's a bass), and has recently joined a mixed choir that is not church-affiliated. He hopes it will fulfill his expectations for personal expression and group work. Membership in the Civil Air Patrol has made him deeply aware of the importance of team work, as well as order, discipline, and safety. If he had to pick a career today, he leans towards Security Forces. Since he is 16 years old, he has two years to decide, and in the meantime he intends to round off his high school education by taking courses at the local community college.

It is with great pleasure that I welcome Cdt Whiteley to the Group III Cadet PAO Program, and wish him every success. I look forward to seeing more of his work show up within this Newsletter.

An Original First-Time Contributor

"I have an article that one of our cadets wrote," said to me 2d Lt Tracy Hollinshead, the Gregg County CS PAO. "Send it to me, please," was my reply. As a rule, I first meet my writers through their work, and this was no exception. C/MSgt Andrew Shea's writing has a quality of intimacy and personal involvement that is hard to find in someone age 16. His story line develops effortlessly, his sentences are clear, and his observations are appropriate for his age. Actually, they are entirely acceptable for a person of any age. Someone must have told him, "It isn't nice to brag," and he believed it. But what was he to do when he wanted to report that he'd won the top spot at a CAP school? His solution was simple enough, he wrote his article in the third person. No mean feat for someone age 16, let me tell you. He attends a local Christian academy, where he has learned his writing skills. They are definitely superior.

Cdt Shea is a member of the Gregg County CS, the same as C/2d Lt Whiteley, and they plan to work together, under the direction of Lt Hollinshead.

What is he like? His interests include music (he plays several instruments), reading, and sports. Cdt Shea plays the piano (classical) and his favorite composer is Frederic Chopin. "A lot of left hand," I said, and he replied, "And how!" We had a nice conversation about this unique composer, his times, and how large a contribution to music he made, at a time of astonishing European musical development. He performs regularly at religious services. He also plays the bass guitar and enjoys making "other" music.

Cdt Shea plays soccer, basketball, tennis, and golf. I said to him, "When I was your age, I played both basketball and tennis, but I found it very hard to go from one to the other right away. Is it the same with you?" With a candid laugh, he agreed that it wasn't easy to go from a big ball to a little ball, and vice-versa.

Since he is a sophomore, the Gregg County Composite Squadron can reasonably expect that he'll be there a little over two years. So I look forward to receiving and publishing more of his writing. Welcome, Cdt Shea. The Group III PAO Cadet Program is that much the richer for your having joined us.

And Here's a Third Member of the Gregg County CS

C/SSgt Kayla Cassel is a good team player, and a true believer in the CAP Cadet Program. She is an accomplished cross-country runner, keeps herself fit as a matter of course, and likes to read. When her PAO suggested that she write an article covering an event in which she had participated, she hesitated and nearly declined, but finally took the plunge. And I'm so very glad that she did. Her work appears below.

Cdt Cassel is also a self-starter who notices when something needs doing. She saw that her squadron's bathroom could use a little sprucing up, so she asked permission to give it a try. Naturally, the answer was, "Yes, of course; go right ahead." Someone had repaired a few bad spots with plaster, so Cdt Cassel sanded the surface down, got some paint that was lying around her home, and painted the walls with loving care. It now looks much better than before.

She is also big on community service. The Town of Hallsville, TX thought it would be a good idea to have a Fun Run. Cdt Cassel (15 years old), organized, advertised, and wanted to run in (her trainer wouldn't let her) a 5K course, raising some much-needed funds for a good cause. But aviation is her secret love, which is what brought her to the Civil Air Patrol in the first place. She has already achieved solo status thanks to private flying lessons she took in Florida, and is working towards her FAA Class III license.

I am delighted to welcome her to the Group III Cadet PAO Program, and look forward to more of her work. Congratulations, Cdt Cassel.

A Young Surprise Comes My Way

I get the article and read it. It's solidly written, well presented, and it borders on erudite. The subject is highly technical, but the writer sounds as if he knows the subject matter well. So I look him up for basic information and his contact phone number. C/A1C Christian Nelson is a revelation. He is 14 years old, obviously pays attention in class, and has presented the complexity of helicopter controls and flying with such assurance that I would have believed him to be a helicopter pilot himself. Well, he isn't, and that's where the surprise started to come in.

Picky editor that I am, I phoned the lecturer that Cdt Nelson was quoting, CW4 Frank Badder, a retired U.S. Army helicopter pilot. After I told him who I was, he said that he remembered the class very well. "You know, it was something else," he said. "The cadets sat through the presentation without moving a hair. They were sitting at attention, practically. I wonder whether I bored them to death." I chuckled at that and read the article to him. After a pause, "Did he write that?" asked Mr. Badder in disbelief. "Yes, indeed. It's his work. Is it OK?" Mr. Badder was stunned by it, and more so when I told him that Cdt Nelson is 14 years old. "And did the cadets like my talk?" he asked me. My reply was simple, "Now they all want to be helicopter pilots." Mr. Badder was delighted, then we went over the article slowly and he caught a couple of minor technical mistakes.

Cdt Nelson is home schooled, and since his mother was born in Germany, he speaks German with a very creditable accent. He likes to read, plays the acoustic guitar (blues and jazz), and is active in sports. "What kind of books do you like to read?" I asked. He prefers books with a purpose, rather than just escapist fantasies or mysteries. In fact, to my surprise, he's already read George Orwell's "Animal Farm." His father is an acoustics consultant who specializes on removing sound interference at the source. Cdt Nelson promised to write more often, and I look forward to editing his efforts.

The Apollo Composite Squadron is lucky to have so many talented cadets who can write, and are willing to do so. And I am happy to welcome Cdt Nelson as the newest member of the Group III Cadet PAO Program.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO

Public Affairs Hurricane Relief

2005 Hurricane Relief Patch Available Now

 

The 2005 Hurricane Relief Mission Patch is in. The production sample is at left. If you want any patches, please send the following info: Name, Full address, Telephone #, E-mail address (if you want a mailing notice), Number of patches desired @ $5.00 each, plus a mailing cost of $1.00 per order (check or money order made out to Irving Composite Squadron) to:

     Irving CS
     P.O. Box 710068
     Dallas, TX 75371-0068

Orders will be mailed promptly. Project Officer: Lt Col Dietrich P. Whisennand.

Safety

Some Christmas-time Thoughts

Greetings one and all. Here are some thoughts on making sure the upcoming holidays are safe as well as joyful.

December brings its own unique safety hazards to consider. Outside Christmas lights, Christmas trees, and particularly "real" trees as they dry. If you decorate the outside of your house, one of the greatest hazards is fire as a result of an electrical overload or short. This can happen when you string together too many lights beyond the manufacturer's recommendation, usually not more than 3 strings.

Another common error is using old and frayed extension cords, using indoor extension cords outside, and incurring in other hazardous practices concerning electricity. Do not overload an outlet with multiple lines using expanders to create a multi-plug outlet from one designed for two! 

All of these are common but hazardous practices that lead to fires. Please remember that fires, at the very least, destroy property  and at the worst cost lives. 

Indoors, if you use a "real" tree, beware of shorting hazards as well as the danger of igniting if you place it too close to the fireplace or stove.

Christmas is a wonderful time, filled with excitement, love and cheer. With a little pre-planning and safe practices, the excitement at your home won't be a house fire!  Have a safe and merry Christmas!

Thinking Safety as a Way of Life 

Safety, like the seasons, is cyclical. In the summer, the concerns are heat-related heat exhaustion, density altitude, thunderstorms. In the fall, our concerns shift toward cool/cold weather concerns, such as freezing rain, carburetor icing, ice on the roads and bridges, and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities. Whatever the season, safe conclusion of any CAP or personal activities is usually a result of pre-planning, risk assessment and management. 

The amount of time spent in pre-planning is related to the complexity of the planned event. If it is a trip to the grocery store, it might be as simple as assuring that you have the grocery list and method of payment, and checking your fuel level and tires before departing.

A long fall/winter cross country flight or drive should involve considerably more pre-planning, covering the mechanical readiness of the aircraft or vehicle. What will be the weather along the route of travel? Where will fuel be available? Are there known hazards such as detours or heavy traffic to contend with? You can probably think of several more things you would like to know before you launch a flight or begin a vehicle trip. 

The more time you spend in pre-planning, the less likely you will be to encounter a nasty (and perhaps costly) surprise. Creating an effective safety culture is the result of consciously building a safety assessment prior to any activity. Be sure to think safety before your next trip or flight. Doing so will greatly increase your odds of returning home in one piece.

Maj Wm. "Bert" Wilson, SO

Monthly Safety Briefing

Each Squadron is required to provide both a flight safety briefing and a ground safety briefing each month. The Sentinel, the national CAP Safety newsletter, should be briefed as a minimum. Be sure to log it in WMU, too.

Maj Jeff Yevcak, formerly the Randolph AFB safety officer who was also the Randolph AFB liaison officer to CAP, kindly offered the following for the month of November, should you want to use them at your own squadron.

December Flight Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

December Ground Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

Upcoming Events

Recurring Reports

5th of the Month

 All subordinate unit and staff reports to Group III are due

5 January

 Group Chaplain and Transportation reports due

1 March  S3 and Real Property Reports Due

2007

 

December

 
16-17 Dec Table top Exercise Contact: Lt Col Brooks Cima
26-31 Dec