Group III, Texas Wing - SWR-TX-030

 Civil Air Patrol     U.S. Air Force Auxiliary 

More than meets the skies . . .

Newsletter - January, 2008

How fo Fight a Good War

Growing up near Buenos Aires in a sleepy, small town that today has about half a million people, boasts a university, and is the cathedral seat of a Roman Catholic diocese, we looked forward to Wednesdays. There were four movie theaters in town, and the newest devoted that day to only cartoons, newsreels and one episode of a serial (Batman, Flash Gordon, Tarzan or the like), shown continuously. Watching the entire show took about two hours, but we never left that soon. You bought your ticket and could stay until either your eyes dropped out or one of your parents came to claim you. We small fry congregated on the first two or three rows, while the teenagers flocked to the rear seats, leaving a large swath of nearly empty seats in the middle, a custom we took for granted but couldn't understand all too well. The War was on then, but it involved only Europe and the Asian and African campaigns; the U.S. hadn't entered it yet. All we knew was that countries were fighting, for some mysterious reason, and we simply took our parents' side.

Argentina was nominally neutral, but the government (the same as Franco's Spain) leaned towards the Axis powers. On the other hand, around 1940, the people sympathized largely with England and its plight after the fall of France (Argentines, too, loved an underdog). And since the country was neutral, all newsreels made it in  American, English, French, German, Italian, even the very occasional Japanese. The theater was where we, the children, fought our own little war from "our" first three rows.

On any day other than Wednesday, when viewers were ushered in, it was customary to hand them a program that was printed on luxurious, heavy, coated paper (an ideal material for folding paper airplanes), on which the theater made a profit by selling advertising. Since they always printed too many programs, and the young ushers knew our needs, they stacked the old programs where we could "find" them. Which we did, with dispatch.

Now, here's how it worked. If you keep a good wad of chewing gum going, fold a paper airplane, take a little bit of gum and use it to tip the airplane and hold a straight pin as a mini battering ram at its nose, you'll be all set. For best results, you want to wait about 10 minutes for the gum to harden a bit. You can propel your "plane" using opposing index and middle fingers, both hands synchronized under your chin, and use a quick outward motion to fly your dart to its target. We would wait anxiously for a newsreel to show us Adolf Hitler in one of his blustery tirades and, at his first scream with fist-thumping, we would send our missiles to the screen, pock-marking Hitler's face with a bunch of paper darts hanging off his "skin." At once, the projector would stop, the lights would come on, and the caretaker would use a long-handed push-broom to sweep the paper planes off the screen. He was an old man who walked slowly and deliberately, a fact that greatly contributed to our mirth.

Having seen the entire collection of newsreels and cartoons several times already, the projectionist knew exactly how often the newsreel would show Hitler or Mussolini (Hirohito was a lame and very distant third). These were essential figures for our duel to the death in effigy which we never lost, of course. Therefore, if the projectionist thought the total number of showings would be lacking, or there were too many left-over programs that week, he would back up the reel a few turns and restart the viewing just before "the scene" so we could get to do our act more than once on the same screening.

At times, the projectionist indulged in a private side show of his own. Depending on the scene, he would restart the film "straight" or "gradual," creating abrupt of ululating sound effects that we celebrated with great glee. In retrospect, our noise making must have had a quality of purity capable of touching the grouchy projectionist's heart. It never occurred to us that he was "one of us" and took his sound effects to be simple mechanical malfunctions. We thought he wanted to see how fast we could replenish our weapons. We also theorized that he wanted to see whether we made paper darts ahead of time and had a personal arsenal at the ready. Years later, I learned that the projectionist was a Spaniard who had lost family members during the Nazi bombing of Guernica.

In time, America entered the war, and the American newsreels got really interesting (for us, at any rate). At the beginning of the war, my younger brother and I were in the Boy Scouts, but a competing youth organization got started around 1940 by the same German families who in 1932 had hired a ship to sail them off-shore so they could elect Adolf Hitler Chancellor of Germany. This youth group had a name (no girls were allowed), that now escapes me, since it was German and I didn't speak German at the time. It was not "Hitler Junge," though, probably because the government wouldn't allow it. They looked like little storm troopers, goose-stepping down the sidewalk, each complete with Swastika arm-band and lots of leather belts across the chest. The government told them they couldn't show the Swastika, so they just turned the armband inside-out, except that everyone knew that the Swastika was still there. I never heard them speak Spanish; only German. Later I heard that they tried to invade the theater to prevent us from throwing our home-made missiles, but the manager asked them to come back at a different time. I think the theater bribed them by giving them free passes. Anyway, the peace was kept, and we continued our war undisturbed.

Last month I mentioned George Orwell and Nineteen Eighty-Four. I wish he had thought of this simple mechanism for settling disputes bloodlessly. Had it caught on, it would have avoided a good many unpleasant and costly mistakes in later years. And all of us would be happier, healthier, and wealthier.

Some day the human race will achieve enough wisdom to figure out that, if we wait long enough, none of this will matter.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Group Staff Messages

Group Commander

It's Not Because It's Easy

As we take our first steps into 2008, I want to revisit a subject we've discussed before. It is an important one because it helps us keep focused on our jobs when times are tough, and in the long run I think it makes us more committed to CAP. The question is, "Why has each one of us chosen to make Civil Air Patrol an important part of his or her life?"

Whatever the answer is for you, I can tell you for sure what the answer is not:

  1. You're not a member of CAP because it's easy

  2. You're not a member of CAP for the paycheck

  3. You're not a member of CAP for all of the recognition you get

  4. You're not a member of CAP because you like doing reports (OK, on this last one, maybe some of you are in CAP for this and if so, I'm sure I can find a great place for you on Group Staff! Please call me!)

In the years I have been in CAP I've been able to draw some conclusions about what makes CAP members tick. I think President John F. Kennedy put it best in a speech to Rice University students on September 12, 1962. He was answering the question, "Why should Americans embark on space exploration?" And he said

"We set sail on this new sea because there is new knowledge to be gained, and new rights to be won, and they must be won and used for the progress of all people. For space science, like nuclear science and all technology, has no conscience of its own. Whether it will become a force for good or ill depends on man, and only if the United States occupies a position of pre-eminence can we help decide whether this new ocean will be a sea of peace or a new terrifying theater of war. I do not say that we should or will go unprotected against the hostile misuse of space any more than we go unprotected against the hostile use of land or sea, but I do say that space can be explored and mastered without feeding the fires of war, without repeating the mistakes that man has made in extending his writ around this globe of ours.

"There is no strife, no prejudice, no national conflict in outer space as yet. Its hazards are hostile to us all. Its conquest deserves the best of all mankind, and its opportunity for peaceful cooperation may never come again. 'But why,' some say, 'the moon? Why choose this as our goal?' And they may well ask, 'Why climb the highest mountain?" 'Why,' 35 years ago, 'fly the Atlantic?' Why does Rice play Texas?

"We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too."

I hadn't been born when President Kennedy gave this speech, and I was not yet alive to witness the brilliant success of the Apollo Program, but President Kennedy's words reach into my soul and make me proud. The emphasis in the final paragraph is mine, and I think the highlighted words offer the most eloquent explanation of why we have chosen to be in CAP. At least, I have never seen a better one. I encourage each of you to click on this link and read the speech for yourself. If you'd like to listen to the speech (which you can also do on that site), you can hear these paragraphs starting at 6 minutes 52 seconds into the speech.

As CAP members we won't be called upon to fly to the moon, but we will be called upon to respond in the event of airplane crashes and natural disasters. We will be called upon to mentor and guide our future leaders. We will be called upon to serve as aerospace ambassadors to the general public. The tragedies we respond to have no conscience of their own, they have only victims. Someone must answer their calls for help, and so, we do. Meeting the needs of future generations and carrying the message of the greater good that comes from aerospace technology is not an easy task, and yet we accept that burden. We are not CAP members because it is easy, we are CAP members precisely because it is hard.

  • There is nothing easy in a cadet's attempts to lead for the first time.

  • There is nothing easy in achieving a Mitchell Award.

  • There is nothing easy in spending a week at encampment, either learning or teaching.

  • There is nothing easy in training to become a mission pilot.

  • There is nothing easy in working on a mission after a natural disaster, sleeping on a cot or a concrete floor every night, eating only MRE's and drinking only bottled water for a week.

  • There is nothing easy in accepting command of a CAP organization at any level.

  • There is nothing easy in being an incident commander, or ground team leader, or mission scanner, or flight line supervisor especially not when human lives might be in need of rescue.

  • There is nothing easy in a check pilot's decision to uphold Civil Air Patrol's flight standards by declining to sign off on a CAPF5 flight check.

  • There is nothing easy in striving for our core values: Integrity, Volunteer service, Excellence, and Respect.

We choose to be members of the Civil Air Patrol, and do these things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard. We choose to live by our core values, and to achieve excellence in our training, and to be good custodians of the trust that the taxpayers show us with their million-dollar investment in aircraft and equipment. We choose to spend our time and energy working to ensure that tomorrow's leaders remember the lessons of their yesterday. We choose these things because in achieving them we attain the best and most effective measure of who we are.

As we open the year 2008, I ask that each of you renew your choice to be in Civil Air Patrol.

And I thank you for the decision that I know you have already made.

Lt Col Owen Younger, Commander

Tertia semper primoris

Group Commander -New Staff Appointment

New Flight Operations / Stan Eval Officer

I am pleased to announce that Maj Nolan Teel has accepted the position of Group III Flight Operations Officer, and will have as an additional duty that of the Group III Stan Eval Officer. As many of you know, Group III has more aircraft than any other group in Texas Wing, as well as having more aircraft and more annual flight hours than many other wings in Civil Air Patrol. In an organization as large and as complex as Group III, this is certainly an important job.

Maj Teel brings significant experience as a Flight Instructor and Professional Pilot, as well as experience on the Operations Staff at TXWG. I have outlined several goals for Group III Flight Operations, and asked Maj Teel to consider these to be his primary focus for the next few months. These goals are:

  1. Increase the number of qualified pilots in Group III

  2. Take steps to improve pilot proficiency, skills, and professionalism within Group III Flight Operations (raising the standard)

  3. Ensure that Group III as an organization serves as a good custodian of the million-dollar investment that the taxpayers of the United States of America have entrusted to us

As he takes on this responsibility, I ask you to give him whatever support is necessary for him to be able to accomplish the tasks I've laid out for him.

Please join me in congratulating Maj Teel on his new role!

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!

Ch (Maj) Ron Whitt, AEO

Cadet Programs

Wreaths Across America

For full coverage of Group III's participation in the Wreaths Across America event, please go to this link and read that article and the one immediately following it.

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 an article dealing with the ministry and reported by SrA Brian Stives, 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office spanning three Chaplain generations. He wrote on "Chaplain's Stole Continues Legacy"  

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

Capt Eric Martin, CS

Communications

 

Santa Came to Town

     AUSTIN-BERGSTROM INT'L AIRPORT, TX Santa Claus just delivered our roof magnets for the antenna tie-downs on the TxDOT Flight Services building. The best part is that all 10 of them only weigh 19 lbs, and can be hoisted in a back pack or tote sack very easily and safely. They have a 150 lb lift capacity, and are only 2x5 inches. What does this mean? Now we no longer need to worry about dropping a concrete block and damaging the roof, or injuring a person, or tripping and falling off the roof ourselves. It will be so easy, from now on. I could get used to this.

Thank you so much Dan (Maj Dan Williams, Kittinger Phantom SS commander – Editor) for the idea, and for making the concrete blocks for the September WAX experiment. It was very much worth the effort, and the new setup will now be safer and more effective and so easy to tune the antenna.

Also, thanks to our new member Aaron Starnes for the magnet idea and for finding them online.

Capt Steve Barclay, DCA

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

Neiman Marcus Adolphus Annual Children’s Parade, 1 December

DALLAS, TX – The American and Texas Flags were the first sight to appear in the distance during the Neiman Marcus Adolphus Children’s Annual Parade in downtown Dallas on Saturday, 1 December 2007. Expecting a military honor guard as in previous years, the spectators were amazed as the Group III Honor Guard marched into plain view up Commerce Street, leading the parade. According to the approximately 350,000 spectators, the Group III Honor Guard, consisting of C/MSgt Scott Gulliksen (Rifle), C/MSgt Matthew Garcia (Texas Flag), C/SSgt Tim Kleinmeier (American Flag), and C/SSgt James Gulliksen (Rifle) did a remarkable job.

Before the parade began, the Honor Guard members found time to speak with and have their picture taken by some of the many spectators who came up to them, while they kept preparing themselves for the event. The show was a last-minute arrangement for the Group III Honor Guard, as the original military Honor Guard had been called to active duty for deployment abroad, so the cadets had much to put together and plan.

Uniforms were inspected to the last detail, and no questions were left unanswered. First, in front of the Adolphus Hotel, they stood at attention for the opening number who performed a dance. Then it was the Honor Guard's turn to get the ball rolling. On the command of, “Forward, MARCH” they were off smartly.The Honor Guard, leading the entire parade, was escorted through the city by Dallas Police, and viewed by thousands who lined both sides of the street.

1. 2. 3.

[1] The Group III Honor Guard is formed. (L-R) C/SSgt James Gulliksen (Addison CS), C/SSgt Tim Kleinmeier (Mesquite Blacksheep CS), C/MSgt Matthew Garcia (Mesquite Blacksheep CS), and C/MSgt Scott Gulliksen (Addison CS). [2] The Honor Guard leads the parade. [3] The Honor Guard salutes as it marches past the reviewing stand. (Photos: SM Joan Gulliksen, Addison CS)

According to the event's official website, the parade is also "seen in syndication on more than 350 television stations in 159 markets across the country, and has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families throughout North Texas and coast to coast." During the entire performance, the Honor Guard was alert and vigilant. It was often essential for them to halt the march, mark time, or turn at various points. They did all these maneuvers with precision and elegance. Along the length of the parade's route, the cadets repeatedly received encouraging remarks and comments from the spectators, which just soes to show how rewarding and worth while being a part of the Honor Guard Program really is.

All the while, the Honor Guard was focused and concentrated, while marching to the quiet but dignifying cadence appropriate for the parade. They finished in front of City Hall, and at last were done. The Honor Guard received many congratulatory remarks, and many people told them how well they had done.

After they had stowed all their gear away, the Honor Guard went out for a fun time at Fuddruckers. As I look back on everything that happened that day, I realize how the Honor Guard had really lived up to the CAP motto of Semper vigilans (Always Vigilant).

C/SSgt James Gulliksen, HG

Coming Events for January

For January practice information and scheduling, please contact 2d Lt Don Gulliksen at dongulliksen@aol.com or 469-964-0275.

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

Helping the Squadron PDO Help Squadron Members

This month we'll continue our series on helping the new PDO get started, and how to get the new CAP officer motivated and trained for the job.

First on the agenda is getting all your officers signed up with e-Services at www.capnhq.gov

Show them how to enter the online test area, and make sure that each member completes the following tests

1. Operations Security Awareness Training (Also known as OPSEC)

2. CAPT 116 part 2 (ICS 100)

3. CAPT 117 parts 1, 2 & 3

Help the officer enroll in the AFIDAL Course 00013 "CAP Senior Officer Correspondence Course" (commonly called "ECI-13" because that was the number of the old pamphlet covering this course). See CAPR 50-17 for details on these requirements. Or look in the PDO support page for AFIDAL information

Next contact the Group PDO to set up a Squadron Leadership School for your unit.

Squadron Leadership School (SLS) provides CAP adult members with a basic understanding of CAP operations at the squadron level, and how those operations affect CAP's national missions. Additionally, members learn more about CAP customs, core values, and communications. Case studies, discussion, and group assignments are integral parts of the SLS.

Squadron Leadership Schools are administered at group or wing level, and last from 12 to 16 classroom hours. Students completing SLS are awarded a certificate of completion, and this training is noted on their permanent CAP personal record. For more information, please visit the online Group III PDO support page.

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

Public Affairs Cadet PAO

Gregg County's New Contributor

C/SMSgt Caroline Morton is another member of the Gregg County CS to appear on this newsletter, and comes from a family that emphasizes service to others and education. She recently took and on-line composition course, and it shows in her writing ability. Homeschooled and the second oldest of 9, she brought a lot of stability to the squadron in that she is somewhat of a “mother hen” to the younger cadets. Though kind, she can voice commands whenever needed and has no problem pulling together a group to get a job done. Recently, she worked with other cadets getting the hangar in tip-top shape by de-cluttering, hanging white boards and rearranging furniture to help the squadron function more efficiently.   

She has a fine sense of story-telling, is a steady contributor to the squadron's activities, and a team player. "She's a great leader," says C/SrA Austin Hollinshead, and this is an opinion shared by many others in her squadron. Cdt Morton is a gentle and helpful person, is very observant ,and catches uniform faults as she walks past a cadet. But she always smiles when she points them out. She uses this ability in writing her articles, and the Group III Newsletter is that much the richer for it. Welcoming her to the Group III Cadet PAO Program is a great pleasure

An Unsuspected Asset from Addison CS

C/2d Lt Stephen Miller was one of the five cadet PAOs at the Winter Encampment and a very pleasant surprise. Although he's only 16, he demonstrated unusual maturity and good sense. His passion is music, and he would like to have his own band, a goal he's working towards. He is also good at photography and videography, a talent that was put to good use by having him prepare the end-of-course slide show. This time, improving on previous slide shows, he wove video clips into it. Better yet, he did an excellent job of showing all that had gone on at the encampment in just under 15 minutes.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

[1]-[3] In the PAO "office," Cdt Miller works with Cdt Davis on the end-of-course slide/video show. Cdt Davis was an elusive photo target. [4]-[6] On the job, at all hours of the day. [7] Cdt Miller listens attentively during a staff briefing. [8] At the Dining In, Cdt Miller in a typical display of impish modesty.

Cdt Miller can also write, and he was a steady contributor to the daily articles written by the Cadet PAO Team, which are reproduced below. He is a team player, of good cheer, and has a wry but clean sense of humor. He took direction willingly and promptly, and somehow managed to spend the entire encampment without ever raising his voice. I look forward to seeing much more of Cdt Miller's work. I extend him my warmest welcome.

From Pegasus CS, a Real Find

At 15 one of the youngest cadets on the PAO team at Winter Encampment, C/2d Lt Raphael Erie is an extraordinary young man. His most salient personality traits are affability and responsibility. Whatever task is assigned to him, he discharges it to the best of his ability. Using a small and older camera with limited capabilities, he noticed that some of his photos were not as good as others. So he sought advice. When I explained what was happening, he caught on quickly and went on to take many excellent and well-framed candid photos, showing graphically the daily routine of that unique experience that is an encampment.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

[1] From the start, Cdt Erie provided a humorous twist when not "on the job," yet always did his work with consummate attention to detail. [2] This image, taken on the first day, is an example of his "bad" photographs, caused by a limitation inherent to his camera. [3] The next day, his images were flawless. He even took time to look around and see the beauty of a sunrise on the third day of encampment. [4]-[5] Cadet Erie never disappointed, and often excelled at the job. He also ran with a touch of class, showing the basic cadets "how it's done." [6] Deep in thought, as he writes one of his articles. [7] When the camera came off his face, there was always a smile greet to the world. This is the little camera from which he squeezed really good shots.

He also writes well, with a unique candor and kindness. His good nature is reflected in his prose, and this earned him the affection and respect of all those around him. He was a member of the team, charming, respectful, quietly efficient, and tenacious in getting the job done. If I get the chance, it will be my pleasure to help him develop in the months to come. He is a most welcome addition to the Group III cadet contributors, and I hope to see much more of his work.

Another Pegasus Cadet Shines

Also 15 and a member of the Pegasus CS, C/SSgt Alexandra Falken was known to me. She had once written an article that her father, Lt Karl Falken, sent to me for review. I made some corrections and suggestions, then heard nothing more about it. Now, here was Cdt Falken in the flesh, as a member of the Winter Encampment Cadet PAO Team. She is still quiet and reserved, but her writing has improved.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

[1] When she writes, Cdt Falken weighs her words carefully. [2] At the mess hall, happy to have finished an assignment well. [3] At a practice parade, she waits for "the shot" to develop. [4]-[5] The Cadet PAOs, too, helped put together the borrowed mess hall, as they prepared it for the Dining In [6] At the Dining In, in her blues. In the background, to the left and barely visible, are 1st Lt. Johanna Augustine and, behind her head, the Wing Commander, Col Joe R. Smith. [7] The passing in review is almost ready, marking the end of the Winter Encampment.

As the junior member of the team, she deferred to those higher in grade, yet her voice was heard. She was willing, courageous in trying, and a good team player. Perhaps, in the months to come, I'll get to work with her and Cdt Erie. Or so I hope. I welcome her as a new Group III contributor, and look forward to her future writings and photos.

Two Guest Cadet Contributors

From Group IV, C/2d Lt BrandiiRe'Ann Davis must have been first in line when they were handing out charm, because she's got it, in abundance. The good news is that she's also smart. Although only 15, she did an outstanding hands-on job reporting the Winter Encampment. Her sense of humor and ebullient personality livened the room. Yet, when it came to listening, she could turn it all off and present her clear blue eyes to the speaker as if she couldn't get enough of it.

1. 2. 3. 4.

[1] She took some of the best photos, yet she was seldom photographed herself. Here, she stands at left front. [2] A happy moment at the mess hall. [3] This is the view of Cdt Davis that most people saw. Discrete and quiet, she managed to walk through nearly unnoticed. [4] In her blue uniform, she helps set up the big mess hall for the Dining In.

She was a willing and capable student, and showed continued improvement as the encampment progressed. She wants to pursue a career in graphic arts and communications, and I'm sure she'll do well at it. Talented, sensitive, accessible, caring, kind and respectful are all qualities she possesses in good measure. Group IV is lucky to have her, and I would hope she's given the opportunity to develop to her full potential.

From Group V, C/Maj Faith Brymer was the elder member of the Winter Encampment Cadet PAO Team. Already halfway through her sophomore year in college, her forte is videography, and she did plenty of it.

1. 2. 3.

[1] Cdt Brymer was another elusive target. This one was taken on the first day of encampment. [2] Cdt Brymer in the mess hall. [3] In the field, unobscured by her camcorder.

She also took many digital photos and collaborated on some of the daily articles. I wish her every success in her chosen career field, as in life.

How do you Reward the Cadet PAO Team?

At the end of the encampment, the two PA Mentors (the San Angelo CS PAO, 1st Lt Johanna Augustine, and the undersigned) agreed that the five cadets in the PAO Team had fulfilled the hands-on portion of the Staff Apprenticeship in PA. All they lack now is their essay on the subject, which needs to be graded by their career track-qualified PAO or their Group PAO. Once that formality has been met, they'll be entitled to show a successful Staff Apprenticeship in Public Affairs in their training record. My congratulations to all five, and my best wishes for continued involvement in the Civil Air Patrol

Meet the Winter Encampment's PAO Team - A Leader's Summary

This Winter Encampment I had the pleasure of counting on 1st Lt Johanna Augustine's assistance, who proved to be an effective and willing team player. The five Cadet PAOs entrusted to us for guidance and mentorship had talent but not a very clear idea of what the PAO's job really is. We taught them that, unleashed their talent, then stepped back and watched them go for it. These young people were an inspiration to us, with their boundless energy, good humor, respect for others as well as themselves, and willingness to tackle any assignment. It wasn't ignorance on their part. Rather, it was faith in us, who wouldn't send them out to do what they couldn't accomplish.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

[1] Before the cadet basics had arrived, at the beginning of the encampment, all section chiefs briefed the staff. Here, Col R. Frank Eldridge, Encampment Commander, looks on as Capt Woodgate briefs the PA portion. [2]-[4] Cdt Davis was a difficult subject to photograph, and a source of mirth to those around her as she dodged the CAP paparazzi. [5] At breakfast and still in PT clothes, Cdt Cassie Stephens (staff) with Cdts Brymer and Miller. [6] Waiting in line for a meal, Capt Woodgate, 1st Lt Augustine, and Cdts Brymer and Erie.

Having done it before as my paying job, I did it again – only this time the assets were given to me, rather than letting me select them. This was a novel experience. In effect, I had to run a publishing team with sub-cub reporters, an Editorial Assistant apprentice, and perforce I assigned myself all the jobs that were left Publisher, Editor in Chief, Production Manager and production staff.

7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

[7] Cdts Miller, Falken and Brymer during the fourth day of encampment, hard at work on their article. (Yes, heating was somewhat erratic, but the roof didn't leak.) [8] During a staff briefing, Cdts Miller, Falken and Erie. [9] Cdts Falken and Erie help prepare the big mess hall for the Dining In. [10] Before the cadet basics are let into the Dining In, Cdts Erie, Miller and Brymer with 1st Lt Augustine. [11] Cdts Davis and Falken pour water into what seems like an infinite number of plastic tumblers. [12] 1st Lt Augustine (not her best pose) meets the Wing Commander, Col Joe R. Smith, as Capt Woodgate looks on. "Great job," said Col Smith, a comment we passed on to the cadet PAOs. [13] Cdts Brymer and Falken in their blues, at the Dining In. (All photos by the Winter Encampment's PAO Team.)

My Editorial Assistant ceased being an apprentice very soon. And my sub-cub reporters got promoted to cub reporters in two or three days. It was interesting, surprising, amusing, challenging, and thoroughly fulfilling. Any complimentary attributes you can think of were present there, in abundance. Any personality trait that is easy to live with was there also. Best of all, they were smart.

There were a few bumps along the road, but they got left way back very quickly. Success was the norm, and our praise was never empty. They produced what was asked of them, and in the process have deeply touched all those who have read and seen their work. My congratulations to them all and, above all, my personal thanks.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO

Public Affairs On Our Birthday

The Civil Air Patrol's 66th Birthday, 1 December

DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX – In 1940, the war was raging in Europe and England stood alone against the apparently unstoppable power of the Axis Powers. The American people, after The Great War totally opposed to intervention in another "foreign war," had made it very difficult for the United States to help our cousins in the beleaguered British Isles. President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the Lend-Lease program, and this gave Britain a respite – and hope. He knew that it was only a matter of time until we, too, would be drawn into the fray, and so did others.

Some were true visionaries, and it was thanks to them that CAP ever got off the ground. In 1938, Gill Robb Wilson, Aviation Editor of The New York Times, had observed first-hand Germany's preparations for war, and upon return confided his worries to the Governor of New Jersey, suggesting that a civilian organization be formed to augment the military should hostilities break out. A plan was drawn, the Chief of the Army Air Corps, Gen. Hap Arnold, approved it, and the New Jersey Civil Air Defense Services was created. Soon, the AOPA Civil Air Guard and Florida Defense Force also sprang into being.

By the end of 1940, concerned with sabotage, unprotected borders, and the possibility of a sudden and devastating attack (after having witnessed the annihilation of the Polish, Dutch, Danish, Belgian and French armed forces at the outbreak of the war in 1939), the U.S. began to prepare within the limitations placed by Congress. The groundwork laid by Gen Arnold and Gill Robb Wilson culminated in Fiorello LaGuardia, Director of the Office of Civilian Defense, signing the order that created the Civil Air Patrol on this day, 66 years ago – less than a weak before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that finally drew America into WW II.

Today we celebrate that creation, our distinguished actions during war and peace, our transformation from a defense organization into a community service and disaster relief agency, and our branching out into the highly successful Cadet Programs, where we are given a chance to mentor the young men and women who will become the leaders of tomorrow.

Today, the Civil Air Patrol is 66 years young. Vigorous, a cauldron of talent, a body of knowledge that pools long years of civilian and military service through the experience of its varied and committed members, and America's first line of action when disaster strikes. We don't do this for the glory, or the non-existent pay, or the promise of reward. This we shoulder because it is the right thing to do. This we tackle for our communities, our conscience, and our Nation. This we do to set an example that we hope the young people we mentor will follow.

May we have many more birthdays.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO

Public Affairs On Pearl Harbor Day

 

Pearl Harbor Day Remembered, 7 December

DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX – With our WW II veterans dying by the thousands daily, it is hard for us to remember that those who fought that war had been young – and untouched by human conflict – when the Imperial Japanese forces attacked the largest concentration of naval warships anchored at an American port on the Pacific Ocean. With one decisive blow, the Japanese strategists had hoped to cripple America's naval power, render American armed forces powerless in the Pacific, and dash the American people's will to fight. They were wrong, of course. Japan was a powerful opponent, indeed, but so had been Britain in 1773, when the "Boston Tea Party" played out in defiance of the Crown and set the stage for the American Revolution. If America had fought with pitch forks, muskets and little more than guts then, why would the country give up without a struggle in 1941, after having proved to themselves that a foreign war was winnable when they tipped the balance against the Austro-Hungarian Empire and helped end the Great War of 1914-1918?

But America is extremely young, as nations go. Compared to Japan, an island nation that has been inhabited for 32,000 years, America is a mere infant. A very large infant, of course, but presumed (by the old nations) to have a short memory span, historically speaking. Sixteen years ago, when the 50th anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day loomed, Japan worried that the American giant might rear up and strike back, taking revenge for the unannounced attack that had resulted in 2,380 dead and 1,178 wounded, with great loss of and damage to naval warships. In 1941, civilized nations were still trying to live by the ancient code of armed conflict, the rule of chivalry, the self-imposed moral obligation to announce that a state of war existed between two countries before either one would allow itself to engage in belligerent action.

In 1939 Europe, Adolf Hitler had discarded this tradition. Why shouldn't Japan do the same now, when they viewed their diplomats as an extension of their military establishment, charged with getting the best deal possible while cloaking their government's true intentions? In fact, up to the last minute, Japan had kept up the pretense of "peace talks" in Washington. Yet, it had taken months to prepare for and launch the massive attack on Pearl Harbor. This was the world in which President Franklin D. Roosevelt lived when, on 8 December, he made his famous radio speech that started, "Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan."

The dreadful script of human suffering was to unfold yet another time, with a heavy toll in terms of lives and pain, with the destruction of centuries-old cities and their priceless architecture, art and traditions, and the accompanying disintegration of the social and moral fiber in Europe and the Far East.  The emergence of new powers, and new evils, produced millions of civilian casualties, many slaughtered internally in pursuit of domestic political and economic goals. Six million Jews, over 23 million Russians, over 2.6 million Japanese. By comparison, America was nearly unscathed at just over 418 thousand. When all the numbers are tallied, WW II claimed 72,609,600 lives – over half of them civilians.

On that first Pearl Harbor Day, mortally wounded, the USS Arizona sank as she lay at anchor, in the shallow waters of Pearl Harbor Bay, leaving only her mast above water. She became a symbol to all. Twenty-one years later, a memorial was built over her. The survivors had begun a yearly pilgrimage there, then they took their spouses and children along. Eventually, some of the children having survived their parents, they took up the flag of remembrance and continued the tradition. But time is against the original veterans, so their numbers keep getting smaller. Last year, only 500 survivors and their families made it to Pearl on this day of grief and remembrance.

Please, never forget our veterans.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO

Public Affairs CAP Patches

 

The Permanence of Images, 12 December

     DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX In 1931, Salvador Dalí's The Persistence of Memory shocked the art world with its surrealist imagery. The soft watches draped over objects (but not telling the same time) seemed an odd choice for a painting. These were the years between the two world wars, when the old was quickly being replaced by the new, and it was difficult to discern how much of the new was really worth it. By the way, the word "surrealism" is a French coinage, derived from "sur" (above) and "réalisme." Yet this painting wasn't simply above reality; it was truly outside reality.

Although the artist made no explanation, the art critics were quick to point out that "The Persistence of Memory" was a fable, actually attempting to describe "The Impermanence of Time." This was a very hot topic at the time, since our three-dimensional world had been reinvented by Albert Einstein's Theory of Relativity when he announcing that, "The fourth dimension is time." From the vantage point of the 21st century, it all seems like overkill, though, since everyone knows that people tend to forget. This is why we write notes to ourselves, and keep diaries, and even paint portraits. Because an image, truly, is worth a thousand words.

So what does all this have to do with CAP? All CAP members are human, and humans tend to forget. This is why we write memos. (Memo, itself, is a French coinage, from "aide mémoire" or "memory helper." Except that the French stress the second syllable, not the first. Who says that American's have a patent on abbreviations, any way? And the French, of course, got it from the Latin memorandum.)

Yesterday I got a message from Maj Laurie Lancaster, telling me about, "Capt James Wilson, a member of Tusco Composite Squadron in Dover, Ohio, has recently become interested in collecting and preserving Civil Air Patrol insignias, primarily individual unit patches (both squadron and group)." To view his entire collection, please visit this link. The site will also tell you more above this interesting CAP member.

If you have an old or new CAP patch that isn't there, please get in touch with him so he can add it to the collection. He also provided some interesting links on his webpage, which I've added to our Group III website. And, who knows. You might even learn that your unit has a patch on record that you didn't know existed. I'm grateful to Maj Lancaster for her timely tip.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO

Public Affairs Group III Meets the (Young) Public

 

Civil Air Patrol Big Attraction at DFW Airport Event , 14 December

DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, TX – Group III, Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol reached out to thousands of students at the Fourth Annual Aviation and Transportation Career Expo in an effort to recruit cadets and to promote aerospace studies. Members of Addison, Dallas and Mesquite Blacksheep Composite Squadrons met the students, their parents and their teachers, who were thrilled to see airplanes close-up, many of them for the very first time.

The event attracted more than 4,000 Dallas area students, and was aimed at teaching young people about careers and opportunities in aviation, transportation, and emergency response organizations. According to organizers, more than 40 exhibitors participated in the Expo, making it one of the largest educational events in North Texas.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

[1] (L-R) Lt Col Owen Younger, Group III Commander, and Lt Col Rich Graham of the Dallas CS, a retired USAF officer and SR-71 pilot who commanded the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, in front of a CAP Cessna 182. [2] 2d Lt Jerry Barron and Maj George Hoyt explain how the Gippsland GA-8 works. [3] 2d Lt Jerry Barron, of the Blacksheep CS, explains the GA-8 controls to a young student.[4] A bright young face says it all. [5] Cadets Matthew Garcia, Jacob Hughes and Taylor Moellendorf tell young visitors about CAP. [6] Lt Col Owen Younger autographs programs for young admirers. [7] Nearly hidden by the friendly crowd, 1st Lt Opal McKinney, of the Blacksheep CS, answers eager questions. (Photo #1, Capt David Medders. Photos #2-7, 2d Lt Michael Bownds.)

CAP joined more than 35 participating organizations from industry, education, government and the military by providing an exhibit within a very large American Airlines maintenance hangar. The CAP exhibit drew attention not only from students, but also from Expo organizers and other exhibitors, who were drawn to it by its overall appeal. The exhibit booth was created and furnished by 1st Lt Joe Kaplor, a member of the Dallas CS, and featured a towering black curtain background – complete with blinking lights that gave the appearance of a star-studded night. Cadets and officers working at the booth received numerous positive comments about the exhibit, and were frequently asked how it worked.

Inclement weather prevented the arrival of all but one of the vintage warplanes scheduled for static display. Although disappointing for the Expo, it was a great opportunity for CAP, because skilled pilots flew in two CAP planes under Instrument Flight Rule conditions. At the controls were Capt David Medders of Addison CS and Lt Col Owen Younger, Group III Commander. This gave CAP a virtual equipment monopoly, totally capturing the students’ attention on the flight line. For many students, this was their first time they had seen the inside of an airplane, and thus proved to be an excellent opportunity for CAP members to explain how the Gippsland GA-8 and the Cessna 182 fly and perform missions for America.

8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

[8] 1st Lt Chris Goodloe, Capt David Medders, and Cadet Brandon Maso, of the Addison CS. Medders flew the GA-8 and Goodloe was his observer. Brandon was a passenger. [9] The CAP exhibit, created and set up by 1st Lt Joe Kaplor of Dallas CS awaits visitors. [10] Capt Medders is on hand to answer questions. [11] Cadet Matthew Garcia is interviewed by a fellow student. [12] (L-R) Cadets Patrick Brumett, Matthew Garcia, Taylor Moellendorf, and Jacob Hughes answer pointed questions for a student-produced video report. [13] Cadet Carolyn Stelting engaged in some excellent PR for CAP. [14] At the end of the day, C/ 2d Lt Brandon Maso and 2d Lt Michael Bownds at the CAP booth.. (Photos #8-13, 2d Lt Michael Bownds, Photo #14, Capt David Medders)

A total of 19 CAP personnel participated in the event, and cadet involvement ensured that students could see appropriate role models nearer their own age. The cadets' professionalism drew the praise of Barbara Pack, who coordinated the event for DFW’s Community Affairs Department. Pack said, "The Civil Air Patrol has been a part of the Expo since the beginning – four years ago. At that time, I didn't know much about CAP. At the first Expo, I looked around and noticed a large group of distinguished young men and women in uniform. They looked impressive, and everyone watched them as they came in and as they left. I inquired who they were and I was told that they were CAP cadets. I was impressed. I went over to the CAP booth, watched a brief video about the CAP, and have been in awe with CAP's training and development of young men and women ever since. I guess you can say – I'm a CAP fan for life!"

2d Lt Michael Bownds, PAO, Addison CS

Public Affairs Wreaths Across America

 

Wreath Laying and Remembrance at the DFW National Cemetery, 15 December

DFW NATIONAL CEMETERY, TX – The wind whipped across the landscape, free of structures or trees capable of stopping it, chilling those who had gathered to pay their respects. But despite the frigid air, the hearts of those who'd come to honor our American veterans remained warm and caring. 

The occasion was the Wreaths Across America ceremony, held simultaneously at National and veterans' cemeteries throughout the United States and foreign lands, as an expansion of what started 15 years ago when the Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine donated and laid wreaths at the Arlington National Cemetery. Located in Arlington, VA across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., this most honored of military cemeteries had been the estate of Anna Custis Lee, wife of Robert E. Lee. It received its first military burials during the American Civil War, when it was established as a National Cemetery.

Last year was the first expansion of this event, with the Worcester Wreath Company donating 5,000 wreaths that were distributed to over 240 veterans’ cemeteries in the United States and Puerto Rico. This year, the public was invited to honor our veterans by sponsoring wreaths to be placed on veterans’ graves. Over 16,500 wreaths were thus sponsored, over 4,000 of them through CAP.

The ceremony at the DFW National Cemetery was conducted by members of Group III, Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol. 2d Lt Don Gulliksen (Addison CS) was Project Officer, assisted by 1st Lt Opal McKinney (Mesquite Blacksheep CS and Group III Cadet Programs Officer). SM Rebecca McKinney (Mesquite Blacksheep CS) served as Master of Ceremonies, and the Group III Honor Guard presented the colors.

Serving on the Honor Guard were Cadet Scott Gulliksen (Addison CS), and Cadets Andrew Smith, Matthew Garcia, and Kaycee Niskern (all of Mesquite Blacksheep CS). Cadet James Gulliksen (Addison CS) assisted in securing the wreaths to the stands, as the day was very windy.

Before the ceremony started, David Hall, who has the only exact replica of the Liberty Bell, tolled it every 20 seconds for one hour, ending with three double-rings marking the five-minute point before the ceremony was to begin. The same as last year, the area was encircled by members of the Patriot Guard Riders holding American flags. The ceremony opened with a moment of silence, and a prayer offered by Maj Ron Whitt, Texas Wing Chaplain.

Seven wreaths were placed on stands by representative members of the military. The first, presented by Colonel Ken Cordier, USAF (retired) and a former Prisoner of War, honored soldiers whose last known status was either Prisoner of War or Missing in Action. This was followed by wreaths honoring those who served or are serving in:

The United States Army – laid by Sgt 1st Class Britt, USA

The United States Navy, laid by Lt. Commander Thomas Haeussler, USN

The United States Marine Corps – laid by Lt. Commander Thomas Haeussler, USN

The United States Air Force – laid by Cadet Shannon Williams, Irving Composite Squadron, CAP

The United States Coast Guard – laid by Flotilla Commander Paul Kellner, Coast Guard Auxiliary

The United States Merchant Marine – laid by Immediate Past Flotilla Commander Fred Hoffman, Coast Guard Auxiliary

John Gessick, Junior Vice Commander, VFW Post 8627 and Senior Chief Gary Poplin, USN (retired) addressed the gathering. John Gessick spoke of his family history in the military and his five relatives who are buried in veterans’ cemeteries. He closed his speech by quoting “The Wall,” a song about a mother honoring her fallen son at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Gary Poplin read "A Different Christmas Poem," an anonymous work that tells of a serviceman’s dedication, even during the holidays. This poem had been posted on the December issue of the Group III newsletter .

Maj Scott McCleneghan (Addison CS), 2d Lt Don Gulliksen, and SM Rebecca McKinney then read the names of all the fallen service men and women buried at the DFW National Cemetery who had been Killed in Action or died while on Active Duty. The reading ended ceremonially with three volleys of rifle fire discharged by Gunnery Sgt. Bill Martin, Sgt. Bob Dailey, and Curtis Flat of the DFW Honor Guard. Former Marine Kirk Vinson played Taps, and the CAP Group III Honor Guard retired the colors. 

The ceremony was brought to a close with emotion-filled remarks by SM Rebecca McKinney, and the benediction pronounced by Maj Ron Whitt, Texas Wing Chaplain.

Following these events, CAP members distributed 115 wreaths throughout the DFW National Cemetery, including the graves of the 61 soldiers who had been killed in action. CAP members from the Mesquite Blacksheep , Addison Eagles, Irving, and Dallas Composite Squadrons participated in this event.

Afterwards, Lt Col Cynthia Whisennand, Commander of the Irving CS, said, "It was a cold day, but at least it wasn't raining. At the start of the ceremonies, I stood in an impromptu formation with Navy, Coast Guard, Army and Civil Air Patrol members, and although my face and hands were cold, I suddenly sensed my heart and soul warming within me. I felt the presence of God, and a deep respect for the Cadet Honor Guard who struggled to control the flags in such a strong breeze. I thought about the terrible cold the military had faced in Korea, and at least it was milder here."

C/Amn Shannon Williams, who unexpectedly had been tasked with laying a wreath for the Air Force, said, "I was not nervous serving in such a public capacity, representing the Civil Air Patrol and the Air Force. This was the first time I'd worn my Class A uniform, too, and I was glad that it fit me right." He and his aunt and uncle, Capt Lee Williams and 1st Lt Jerra Williams, laid several wreaths, one of them for a serviceman who had died in Iraq last October. Lee and Jerra were suddenly reminded of their concern for their daughter posted to Iraq, and then their happiness last year when she returned safely home. "I cannot help but measure the cost and sacrifice for our freedom, revealed by the steady increase in gravesites," said Lt Jerra Williams.

2d Lt Gulliksen remarked, "I was immensely proud that my teenaged sons would voluntarily give up a Saturday morning to stand in a cold cemetery to pay tribute to the fallen service men and women. But we were not alone, since many others did the same, including the Patriot Guard Riders and their American Flags; the DFW Funeral Directors' Association, who offered to help; David Hall with his replica Liberty Bell who gave everyone a chance to ring the bell; and the Active Service Honor Guard personnel who came to lay wreaths. All served as role models for the CAP Cadets. It was a great honor to bring the cadets to participate, and have them witness the devotion of others." 

Lt Col Whisennand added, "We'd been divided in teams, and after the ceremony we received a number of wreaths and the names and locations where they needed to go, in different parts of the cemetery. My husband, Lt Col Dietrich Whisennand, reminded me that the organizers wanted the wreath on the ground before the headstone, and then we had to salute it if a member of the military was buried there. The first four wreaths were easy to find, near the front of the cemetery. The last one was far in the back and difficult to reach. The private resting there had been 20 years old when he fell in battle – our son, SM Matthew Whisennand, just turned 21. A moment of sorrow mixed with gratitude descended upon me. Then my heart spoke to me. May those of us that live on, who feel warmed by the lamp of freedom, always acknowledge the sacrifice of our military, and the wrenching loss to their families who made it possible."

It is symbolic of permanence and renewal that, within the past few days, both senior members Rebecca McKinney and Matthew Whisennand (soon to be TFO and 1st Lt, respectively) had been CAP cadet officers. They chose to make the transition from cadet to senior member, following the path shown to them by their elders. And thus the young move on to take their rightful place, in the never-ending cycle of life.

Portfolio

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[1] David Hall rings the replica Liberty Bell every 20 seconds for an hour until five minutes before the start of the ceremonies. [2] The Group III Honor Guard marches towards the stand. [3] The Group III Honor Guard presents the colors. (L-R) Cadet Scott Gulliksen (Addison CS), and Cadets Andrew Smith, Matthew Garcia, and Kaycee Niskern (all of Mesquite Blacksheep CS). [4]-[5] SM Rebecca McKinney (Mesquite Blacksheep CS) opens the ceremonies. [6]-[7] Col.Ken Cordier, USAF (retired) and a former Prisoner of War, honored soldiers whose last known status was either Prisoner of War or Missing in Action. (Photos #1,2, 4: Capt Felipe Gomez, Irving CS. Others: 2d Lt Susan Cathcart)

8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

[8] The wreath layers, headed by SFC Britt, USA and Lt. Cdr. Thomas Haeussler, USN, are formed. [9] SFC Britt lays the wreath for the US Army. [10] Lt. Cdr. Thomas Haeussler, USN brings his wreath for the US Navy. [11] He also laid the US Marine Corps' wreath. [12] Cdt James Gulliksen (Addison CS) assisted in securing the wreaths to the stands, as the day was very windy [13] Cdt Shannon Williams (Irving CS) fills in for the Air Force Honor Guard member, who could not attend. [14] Flotilla Commander Paul Kellner, Coast Guard Auxiliary, brings his wreath to lay at the Coast Guard shield. (Photos #11, Capt Felipe Gomez, Irving CS. Others: 2d Lt Susan Cathcart)

15. 16.17. 18. 19. 20. 21.

[15]-[16] Immediate Past Flotilla Commander Fred Hoffman, Coast Guard Auxiliary salutes after laying the wreath for the US Merchant Marine. Photo #16 shows C/SSgt James Gulliksen joining the officer in saluting at the laying of the wr