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.

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"  

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.

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)

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