|
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:
-
You're not a member of CAP because it's
easy
-
You're not a member of CAP for the
paycheck
-
You're not a member of CAP for all of
the recognition you get
-
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:
-
Increase the number of
qualified pilots in Group III
-
Take steps to improve
pilot proficiency, skills, and professionalism within Group III
Flight Operations (raising the standard)
-
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
 |
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
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
1.
2. 3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
[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 wreath. [17] John Gessick, Junior Vice
Commander, VFW Post 8627, addresses the gathering. [18] Maj Scott
McCleneghan (Addison CS) starts reading the names of all those buried
here who were Killed in Action or died while on Active Duty. [19] 2d Lt Don Gulliksen (Addison CS) continues reading the list
of the fallen. [20] SM Rebecca McKinney (Mesquite Blacksheep CS) ends the
reading of the names. [21] The wreath layers re-form. (Photos
#16, Capt Felipe Gomez, Irving CS. Others: 2d Lt Susan Cathcart)
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
[22]
Gunnery Sgt. Bill Martin, Sgt. Bob Dailey, and Curtis Flat of the DFW
Honor Guard fire three rifle volleys. [23]-[24] Former Marine Kirk
Vinson plays Taps. [25] The CAP Group III Honor Guard retires
the colors. [26] David Hall's exact replica of the Liberty Bell is flanked by
The Ten Commandments. [27] Cdt/SSgt James Gulliksen tries his hand at
ringing the bell. (Photo #23, Capt Felipe Gomez, Irving CS. Others:
2d Lt Susan Cathcart)
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
]28] The wreaths soften the winter landscape
with a touch of color. [29]-[30] Cdt Shannon Williams salutes
after laying his wreaths. [31] 2d Lt Jerry Barron (Mesquite Blacksheep CS)
salutes after having laid a wreath. [32]-[33] Lt Col Cynthia Whisennand and
her husband, Lt Col Dietrich Whisennand, salute at the last gravesite on
their list. [34] The headstone reads, "Adrian M Busch, PV2, US
Army, Persian Gulf, Iraq, Oct 9 1985, Dec 22 2005, Beloved Son and
Brother." (Photos #29, 30, 32 Capt Felipe Gomez, Irving
CS. Others, 2d Lt Susan Cathcart)
2d Lt Susan Cathcart, PAO, Dallas Composite Squadron
Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO |
|
Public Affairs
– Wreaths Across America (A Cadet's
Perspective)
 |
Wreaths Across America (A Cadet's Experience), 15 December
DFW NATIONAL CEMETERY, TX – I could hear the wind
whistling across the cemetery and the rhythmic clicking of highly
glossed leather dress shoes as the Group III Honor Guard marched toward
the wreath stands. The event was called Wreaths Across America, and it
truly showed how members of the Civil Air Patrol can affect others – the
living and their memories of those no longer living.
The Honor Guard, including C/SSgt Kaycee Niskern (Rifle),
C/CMSgt Andrew Smith (American Flag), C/MSgt Mathew Garcia (Texas Flag),
and C/MSgt Scott Gulliksen (Rifle) presented the colors to kick off the
opening ceremony. This was an event I don't think I'll ever forget, as
representatives from various branches of the military honored the
POW-MIA, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine
by laying wreaths on each stand. After it had been placed, it was my job
to secure each wreath so that the strong wind wouldn't make it fall off
the stand.
Soon after, SM Rebecca McKinney made an excellent speech,
describing what the Civil Air Patrol is all about. Following the speech,
Maj. Scott McCleneghan, 2d Lt Don Gulliksen, and SM Rebecca McKinney
read the names of military personnel buried in the cemetery who were
either killed in action or died on active duty. Then veterans fired a
three-volley rifle salute honoring everyone who has served in the
military. Finally, the Honor Guard retired the colors and, as it marched
away, the ceremony had concluded.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1] The Group III Honor Guard is formed to open the ceremonies.
They are C/SSgt Kaycee Niskern (Mesquite Blacksheep CS), C/CMSgt Andrew
Smith (Mesquite Blacksheep CS), C/MSgt Mathew Garcia (Mesquite
Blacksheep CS), and C/MSgt Scott Gulliksen (Addison CS). [2] Army
Sgt 1st Class Britt lays a wreath honoring all Army personnel.
[3]-[4] You can tell by looking at the flags how windy it was. If I
hadn't tied each wreath to the stand, none would have stayed there long.
[5] Nobody told me to do it, but saluting when the wreath was
presented felt right to me.
After the ceremony, members of the Honor Guard laid
wreaths on the gravesites of those who had been killed in action or died
on active duty. This was a very touching event since my brother Scott,
who is also in the Honor Guard, and I got to lay a wreath on the tomb of
a family friend who had served during the Korean War as a SSgt in the
United States Air Force. This was also unique, since I too am a SSgt in
the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Corps. After it was all over, I reflected on
my day. It was so astonishing that I had taken part in such a memorable
occasion, and that our actions had touched so deeply other people who
had come to pay their respects and honor the fallen. Seeing and feeling
their emotions had made me aware of what it means to be in the Honor
Guard.
5.
6.
7.
[6]-[7] My brother Scott (in background) and I
each lay a wreath, then stand and render a ceremonial military salute.
[8] Scott and I laid the last wreath together. On the headstone
it says, "Donald E Park, SSgt, US Air Force, Korea, April 27 1929, Sep
12 2007, Always In Our Hearts." This one meant a lot to us. (All
photos: SM Joan Gulliksen, Addison CS)
Personally, I felt amazed that I had been a part of
something that so many people could relate to. It was unbelievable,
really. Just a small role can be so much larger than one person alone,
and if we all come together it can turn out to be something so worth
while. I really appreciated that no one had decided to just stay home,
being that it was so cold outside. Everyone seemed to know what this
meant, and was determined to do the best possible, despite the weather.
Because the weather was only outside. We had all brought our spirit
inside of us.
C/SSgt James Gulliksen, HG |
|
Public Affairs
– Wreaths Across America (Group III on
National News Online)
 |
Texas Wing offers Wreaths Across America salute to veterans, 27
December
It
is always good to see a Group III news item published by CAP National
News Online (click on the linked title to see that article). This one is
no exception, but it has even deeper meaning because of the involvement
of so many cadets. The youngest was C/Amn Shannon Williams, shown at
right, and two of the senior members present had been cadets a few weeks
before this event.
The
National News Online editors are known for their selectivity in picking
photographs. From the handful of photos forwarded to them, they chose
only three, and two of them show cadets in action. At left, Immediate Past Flotilla Commander
Fred
Hoffman, Coast Guard Auxiliary salutes after laying the wreath
for the US Merchant Marine. C/SSgt James Gulliksen joins the officer in
saluting at the laying of the wreath.
That the young should choose to honor America's fallen
heroes is revelatory of our Nation's feelings, and of the caliber of
CAP's youngest members..
Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO |
|
Public Affairs
– 2007 Winter Encampment
 |
2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment, 26-31
December
CAMP SWIFT, TX – This newsletter's February issue will carry an
overall report on the Winter Encampment, with many images, but there
isn't enough time to do it now. Instead, it is my pleasure to reproduce
below the articles describing the encampment as seen through the eyes of
the Cadet PAO Team. They were: C/Maj Faith Brymer, C/2d Lt BrandiiRe'Ann
Davis, C/2d Lt Raphael Erie, C/2d Lt Stephen Miller and C/SSgt Alexandra
Falken. They put together a daily article for each of the six days of
encampment, which I edited and distributed to the Texas Cadet website,
all Texas press, and CAP National. They are reproduced below in
chronological order.
Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Group III PAO
2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment
– Day One, 26 December
CAMP SWIFT, TX
– Encampment started as the cadet staff arrived between
08:00 and 12:00 at Camp Swift on Wednesday, 26 December. We were
briefed and assigned duties. Directing traffic, taking pictures,
posting signs on doors, and helping other cadets with material
items are only a small list of all the things we had to do. In
short, we had to prepare the place for the cadet basics to
arrive from all over Texas, including Oklahoma, Louisiana,
Florida, North Carolina Colorado and Vermont.
They came later that day beginning at 1 pm, creating a long line
of uniformed young persons, each flanked by a bundle of
belongings. They had brought everything they would need for the
week: bedding, uniform items, compasses, personal toiletries and
shoeshine kits. First thing after saying their goodbyes to their
families, they piled all their luggage to stand in line as they
waited to sign in. When it was their turn at the in-processing
desk, they presented their paperwork, then went on to their
assigned flight station to receive a T-Shirt of the right color
for their flight (the smallest unit formation, usually no more
than 15 cadets). As they returned to the sunny day outside and
retrieved their baggage, they started looking for their barracks
building, which at times was difficult in the confusion of the
moment. Soon, to their great relief, they would find the right
place which would be "home" for the following five days, and
find the bunks they would sleep in.
Cadets got right to it, unpacking and trying to make their bunks
using the white twin-size sheets they had brought along (no
fitted sheet allowed). But making the bed properly would demand
"squaring of the corners" for a lasting, neat appearance, and
they would learn that later in the day. Not long afterwards, the
flight sergeants rounded up their cadets in formation and took
them to Encampment Introduction. There they were introduced to
the staff members and were told what was expected of them. To
quote Col. Frank Eldridge, Encampment Commander, “You do your
best and we will help with the rest."
When everything was said and done, members of the Standards
Evaluation Team (SET) showed the cadets the proper way to wear
the uniform, followed by the prescribed way to make their bunk.
This was very important because they would be graded on how they
did it.
1.
2.
3.
[1] The cadets arrive at Camp Swift for
the 2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment. [2]
Capt Jane Smalley teaches cadets how to "square
corners" with the bottom sheet. [3]
Formed into flights, cadets are marched wherever they
need to go. (Photos: Capt Arthur E. Woodgate)
Afterwards, the flight sergeants and commanders collected their
cadets and marched them onto the grassy field for Group
Formation. After an eternity of being in formation (about half
an hour), cadets fell in for PT. Push-ups, sit-ups, stretches
and runs were the drill for this activity. They will do this
every day, since they'll need it to pass their next physical
fitness achievement test. At evening formation, immediately
following PT, the cadet commander, Cadet Maj. Rojas, disclosed
the order in which the flights would eat their dinner. Dinner at
last! After a long day of settling in, the cadets enjoyed their
lasagna, broccoli, French bread, salad and minuscule piece of
cake. Even though they were not allowed to talk to each other,
the meal tasted just fine.
But the day had not ended yet. The cadets would still have
firearms training, followed by an aerospace education class. As
with every course of instruction, safety was a major concern and
every precaution was taken to prevent accidental injury. The
cadets finally got personal time. For those who wanted it,
Chaplain (Maj.) Ron Whitt conducted a fifteen minute devotional
at 21:15 in the Mess Hall.
Mercifully, at 23:00 hours, Staff called lights out for all
personnel, bringing the successful first day of encampment to an
end. A good night's sleep would do wonders for their ability to
perform during day two.
C/2d Lt BrandiiRe'Ann Davis, Cadet PA Team
2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment 2007 –
Day Two, 27 December
CAMP SWIFT, TX – Day two has come too early. Some of us wanted
to sleep in, but knew that wasn't going to happen. Reveille
awoke basic cadets at 0500 hours, whereas ATS students had
awakened at 0430 hours. The drowsy cadets awoke early but,
nonetheless, many were still rushing to get all their PT gear
together before their flight sergeants would come back for them.
When the cadet commanders and sergeants returned, they ordered
the flight to fall in outside. Then we marched off to the field
for morning formation and PT.
It didn't last long, but the freezing cold and wind made it seem
like an eternity. The entire encampment, including staff, did a
great variety of exercises and stretches. We jogged in place,
did push-ups, cherry pickers, arm and leg stretches, and many
more conditioning and limbering routines.
Personal hygiene came next, in what promised to be a long day.
Like PT, it was brief, giving us just enough time to brush our
teeth and hair, and to quickly change into our Battle Dress
Uniforms (BDU’s). It also gave everyone a chance to warm up in
the heated barracks.
It was finally breakfast time, Hoo-Ah! There is nothing like a
good meal to start off the day. We were treated to eggs, bacon,
potatoes, toast, bananas, oranges, apples, cereal, yoghurt,
muffins, orange juice, white milk and chocolate milk. As you
walked into the the Mess Hall, the wonderful smell of breakfast
food hit your nose with fantastic sensations, which in turn made
us all the hungrier. It felt so good to finally eat and calm our
stomachs after the cold and emptiness since last dinner.
However, getting through the line wasn't so easy. The cadet
basics waited patiently in line at parade rest, arms horizontal
to the ground holding the Standing Operating Instructions (SOI's),
which they read attentively. We, the cadet staff, asked the
cadets several questions from the SOI, calculating their current
level of knowledge. Each would immediately snap to attention and
answer the question to the best of his/her ability. The Mess
Hall could hold three flights at the same time, while the rest
stayed outside in the cold, practicing drill.
After breakfast, the cadets eagerly attended their first classes
which covered a variety of topics, including the many career
opportunities in the Air Force. Although the classes were
interesting, it was hard to stay awake during them, since the
previous night had been too short on sleep. Instruction seemed
to last forever as the cadets fought to stay awake. The last
class taught the cadets how to properly care for their uniforms.
Immediately after, the cadets marched to their barracks to
prepare for the Standards and Evaluations Team (SET)
inspection. As they waited for the inspectors to arrive, the
cadets hurriedly readjust their uniforms, paying attention to
the smallest detail. Each one felt that the honor of their
flight depended on him or her. A belt buckle out of place, or
the tiniest string hanging off a cadet's uniform can lower the
flight's score. The cadets stood at attention as the SET slowly
critiqued their uniforms and offered advice for improvement. The
inspection lasted quite a while, but as soon as the cadets were
inspected, they headed back outside to practice for
Pass-In-Review; also known as the graduation parade – just four
days away. Next was one of the best events of the day:
lunchtime.
The hungry cadets stood in line as they eagerly awaited their
hot lunch of burgers straight off the grill. Along with the
burgers, cadets were offered leftover chocolate and white milk
from breakfast, baked beans, apples, oranges, bananas, and fruit
salad.
1.
2.
3.
[1] A SET member inspects a cadet basic's appearance and
uniform. (Photo: C/Maj Faith Brymer) [2] A cadet
fires for practice at the 15 meter range. (Photo: C/SSgt
Alexandra Falken) [3] – Breakfast tastes so good that
the cadets devour it in record time. (Photo: C/2d Lt Raphael
Erie)
Right after lunch, flight sergeants ordered their cadets
outside. When the CAP vans drove up, the flights took off to the
firing range. Cadets will cherish this experience forever. “It
was awesome!” said C/A1C Samek. We were allowed the privilege of
shooting caliber .22 rifles. We aimed for the target, held our
breath, and slowly squeezed the trigger. The paper targets, 50
feet away, were the score sheet, as they held a permanent count
of the points for each shot. Adding the scores together would
tell us if we had shot our way to the next level. After a
practice run, we attempted to shoot our way to the next level
(still 50 feet). It was a fantastic experience. Not only was it
fun, but if you got enough points you would qualify for a medal
you can wear on the Class B Blues. “Pretty nice, I hope to get
an award” stated C/Amn Jenkins.
After shooting, as soon as the cadets returned to their
barracks, the flights were given what is called “flight time”.
At this time, the flights work on different issues that arose in
the flight during the day. Today, they were working on their
uniforms and drill.
Closing formation was conducted promptly at 1745, followed by
dinner. The flights were ordered in the chow line according to
the points they had earned during the day's activities: the
flight with the most points eats first. Points are earned for
categories such as customs and courtesies, uniform preparation,
and barracks orderliness and cleanliness.
The day is ending after a quick class on civilian careers in
aviation and a squadron leadership project. The cadets have
looked forward to this moment all day: bedtime!
The Cadet Public Affairs Team
2007 Texas
Wing Winter Encampment 2007 – Day Three, 28 December
CAMP SWIFT, TX – Today, Reveille came at 0445 instead of
the usual 0500, with the lethargic cadets moving out of
their warm barracks into the cold harsh world of the
dreaded PT. Luckily, the morning was warm enough to keep
the ground from freezing, allowing for additional
exercises that involve more contact with the ground
(yesterday it had been too cold so the ground was
hard).. Push-ups, sit-ups, flutter kicks and various
other workouts were common exercises seen throughout the
squadrons.
Directly after PT, the cadets had some time allotted for
personal hygiene and to change into their Battle Dress
Uniforms (BDUs). With empty stomachs, everyone went to
the chow hall for breakfast, in hopes that the pancakes
and sausage would fuel them to start the long day ahead.
Following breakfast, the basic cadets attended an air
powered mechanics class taught by U.S. Air Force
representatives, while the Standards Evaluation Team
(SET) inspected their barracks and the Advanced Training
Squadron (ATS) students stood by for inspection. This
last one was a hands-on exercise that would teach the
ATS cadets the SET duties and responsibilities – since
the next step in their own progression will be teaching
cadet basics at future encampments.
When asked how he felt about the experience, Cadet
Senior Airman Moellendof replied, “I liked the class
because of all the information I received. I also liked
being able to learn from people’s different point of
views in the open discussions”. Immediately following,
the ATS students had a block of instruction on the Civil
Air Patrol’s Cadet Programs.
Once the classes were over, the basics practiced their
Pass-In-Review skills, as the ATS cadets were finishing
their Leader Lab class. After a very long morning,
packed full of activity, lunch time finally came around.
Cheese pizza, salad, fruit, tea and both chocolate and
white milk were served to the hungry cadets. They ate
quickly and, as they came back out, some were guided to
the CAP vans.
After a short ride, the 47th Squadron cadets
(about half of all basic cadets at encampment) found
themselves at Camp Swift’s rifle range. There, caliber
.22 rifles awaited each cadet. Before the cadets got to
shoot the rifles, they got a safety briefing from Major
Mike Cobb, a qualified instructor who manages the
National Rifle Association weapons course. As soon as
the safety briefing was concluded, the cadets got their
rifles, took their place at the firing line, and locked
and loaded as instructed. When given the command, they
excitedly opened fire, each aiming at the small figures
on the target in front.
1.
2.
3.
[1] Major Mike Cobb, wearing a red hat, organizes
the cadets as they prepare to fire and “zero in” their
rifles. [2] The encampment in mass formation has
opened ranks. The SET members inspect each cadet with
the utmost care, looking for any flaw in the uniforms.
[3] Two cadets demonstrate a winning “Spirit
Time” technique. (Photos by C/2d Lt Stephen Miller)
C/A1C Julia Gardner said, “Shooting was a great
experience. It was good fun, and I hope I get a medal.”
A C/Amn who did not want his name mentioned, excitedly
proclaimed that, “It was good! We were just shooting at
targets and having fun.” Two hours later, the 47th
Squadron cadets were taken back to the mess hall, where
yet another class on the history of the Civil Air Patrol
awaited them.
Immediately following the history lesson, the entire
cadet encampment rushed outside and quickly formed for
mass inspection. The SET members meticulously
scrutinized the uniforms of the entire encampment,
including flight staff, for what seemed like an
eternity. They examined every small detail of each
cadet’s uniform, looking for mistakes as small as a
piece of lint or fuzz where none should have been.
The inspection concluded, the cadets were subjected to
even more classes about the United States Air Force.
Shortly after that, the encampment attended closing
formation and learned which would be the honor flight of
the day, the uniform of the day for the following day,
and a brief recap covering the day’s activities.
The next item on the agenda was the best gift a tired
and hungry cadet could possibly receive – Dinner! Cadets
got a bowl of tasty chicken and dumpling soup, another
bowl with fruit salad, a plate with carrots, green
beans, green salad, and chocolate cake.
Dinner gave way to an activity called Spirit Time. This
is when all the basic cadets meet in the mess hall and
get motivated and excited about the rest of encampment.
Today is Day Three, and the cadets are just about at the
halfway point, eagerly looking forward to Spirit Time,
which is a noisy round of friendly venting. (Some of
them will have lost their voice by tomorrow, Day Four,
but should have it back by graduation on Day Six.)
The loud and energized Spirit Time led into a quiet but
very interesting class. This time, the cadets learned
about the many civilian careers in aviation that are
open to them. The cadets had an easy time keeping awake
for this class, after the mass rally of Spirit Time!
The day has been so full of activity that the schedule
wound up advancing at a different pace for most of the
flights. The optional evening devotional, therefore,
turned into a relay of fellowship and blessings, with
small groups arriving as time permitted, to leave after
a 15-minute pause of peace and relaxation. Those who
chose to attend felt better as they found their way back
to their noisy billets.
At last, it is lights out at Camp Swift, and the cadets
are in bed. Some of them have managed to fall asleep
already, exhausted from the day. On the following day,
the fourth day of non-stop action, they will wake up
before the crack of dawn for yet another day of classes,
activities, and – yes, believe it or not – fun.
C/2d Lt Raphael Erie and C/2d Lt Stephen Miller, Cadet PA
Team
2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment 2007 –
Day Four, 29 December
CAMP SWIFT, TX – Reveille sounded as usual at 0445.
The cadets groggily got out of bed and marched to
the parade field for yet another day of opening
formation and PT in the cold. Although the cadets
were cold and tired, they still did magnificently on
their PT. The intense motivation of the basic and
ATS flights could be felt throughout the whole area.
Every cadet was still “pumped up” from the previous
night’s Spirit Time. For safety purposes, with the
33-degree temperature, cadets were not supposed to
do PT exercises that required contact with the
ground. With PT over, every cadet got some time for
personal hygiene and to dress in the uniform of the
day – BDUs.
Next, the basics had two other classes about the
U.S. Air Force, learning about Air Power. Cadet
Airman First Class Spanial said, “I enjoyed learning
about the different airplanes, like the F-22
Raptor.” Cadet Airman Peltier added, “I learned
about the daily routine of an Air Force pilot, and
the capabilities of planes like the C-130. Cool.”
The long week is taking its toll on the cadets, and
staying awake during classes is getting harder and
harder.
Meanwhile, the Advanced Training Squadron (ATS) had
a stand-by inspection. Afterwards, cadets
participated in a class on goals and objectives.
Their next task may have been the highlight of the
day for ATS. First they went over what the Standards
Evaluation Team (SET) was going to be doing during
the day. The cadets were then split into teams that
would follow a SET member in order to observe how
the job was done.
Following their classes, the SET members conducted
the basic cadets’ flight inspections, and
immediately after the basic cadets participated in
an activity called “fun in the sun.” This was
designed to make up for the PT they had lost because
of the earlier cold weather. The Cadet Staff worried
that some cadets might be offended if they did not
get a chance to do some pushups, so the entire basic
encampment participated in the afternoon PT.
Needless to say, when “fun in the sun” was over, the
cadets were highly motivated.
1.
2.
3.
4.
[1] PT in the very early morning. [2]
Cadets wait in line for breakfast; the sun has not
come up yet. [3] Advanced Training Squadron
members follow SET members. [4] Cadet
basics going to class. (Photos: C/2d Lt Raphael
Erie)
The 48th squadron was the last one to go
to the firing range for a chance to earn the
National Rifle Association (NRA) marksmanship award.
All cadets shot as best they could, and will learn
their results at the end of encampment. Hopefully,
the cadets will receive one of four awards;
pro-marksman, marksman, marksman first-class or
sharpshooter.
For lunch, everyone had a tasty lunch of chicken
tenders and macaroni and cheese, with the usual
salad, fruit, cookies and milk or water. The
ravished cadets and staff made it in and out of the
dining hall in record time, eager to attend their
next activity. They know that encampment is quickly
coming to an end.
Both the basic and ATS cadets attended Pass In
Review (PIR) practice. PIR is a graduation
requirement, and they’ll be doing it in just two
days – and neither the cadets nor the cadet staff
members want anything to go wrong. They spent about
an hour making sure that every movement was just
right.
5.
6.
7 .
8.
[5] Cadet basics quizz each other. [6]
Cadet basics read their SOIs. [7] Cadet
basics study outside. It's nice when the day warms
up. [8] Firearms training. (Photos: C/2d
Lt Raphael Erie)
Several more classes were held in the remaining
hours, until Evening Formation. A class that
explained everything about CAP’s emergency service
opportunities had held the cadets’ attention for
quite a while, since it was very interesting.
Another class was held on airport fire and safety.
This one was a little less interesting but
necessary, so the cadets held on!
Evening formation was held at the Parade Field
across the road, with the cadets weary and exhausted
from the day. The Flight that earned the most points
for the day gets to eat first, and today it will be
Foxtrot. Tired as the cadets were, they were happy
enough to march to the Mess Hall for a dinner of
Salisbury steak and fried potatoes. Immediately
following dinner, in a class taught by C/Lt. Col.
Cilino, C/1st Lt. Flores, and C/Lt. Col. Rojas, the
basics learned about National Cadet Special
Activities such as the International Air Cadet
Exchange (IACE). Finally, at 2115 came the moment
everyone has been waiting for: personal time.
Some of the cadets chose to attend a short
devotional. On the first night, ten cadets had
attended this optional activity, with their numbers
increasing gradually. On this evening, 54 cadets
gathered in the small room, both males and females.
They got to know each other better, enjoyed the
feeling of fellowship and belonging, and left ready
for a good night’s sleep and their last day of
training. Lights out came suddenly at 2215.
C/2d Lt Stephen Miller, Cadet PA Team
2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment 2007 –
Day Five, 30 December
CAMP SWIFT, TX – The last full day of
encampment has arrived and everyone has
mixed feelings about it. Some cadets are
excited that encampment is nearly over,
since a little home sickness is not
uncommon, while others feel a bit sad
that they are leaving their CAP family
behind.
The last day starts out with reveille at
0445, but there was neither morning
formation nor PT. The staff wanted to
give all cadets a chance to get their
Blues uniform in perfect shape for the
upcoming inspection and for the Dining
In at the end of the day. Within the two
hours they were given, the cadets worked
hard on their Blues, making sure that
their uniform was neat and looked just
right.
With their uniforms ready for the day,
the cadets headed to the chow hall to
get some breakfast. It was delicious.
The French toast, potatoes, sausage
patties, milk and juice were just what
they needed. The cadets gobbled down the
food and returned to their barracks to
make sure they hadn’t forgotten any
detail before the inspection. If they
wanted to, they all had a chance to go
to a religious service conducted by the
Wing Chaplain, Major Ron Whitt.
The SET members finally arrived and
inspected the cadets for the last time.
After a very brief inspection, the fun
started. At the end of every
encampment, the basic flights
participate in a series of team
competitions. They are friendly but
fiercely contested.
First came the Knowledge Bowl, where
they were tested on Air Force and Civil
Air Patrol knowledge. Three tables were
set up with two bells sitting on each
one. Two SET members sat at the far end
of the tables, with four basic cadets
sitting at the side. One SET member
asked the cadets a series of questions,
while the other marked down points. The
team that won the most points won the
round. Seems simple enough, but for
every question a cadet got wrong, it
counted against that team’s score. The
teams battled against each other
fiercely, ending with India flight
taking home first place, Charlie flight
earned second and last but not least
Delta flight brought up the rear.
Congratulations to India and all the
other flights for their hard work and
diligence. Everyone has improved greatly
over the past week, and they can rightly
be proud of it.
Next was the Drill competition. Each
flight, starting with Alpha and ending
with India, entered a squared-off area
marked by small orange cones and
performed in front of C/Maj Vaughan and
C/Capt Joel Buchman. The flight
sergeants led the flights and marched
them around the area. They were given a
list of the drill movements they needed
to perform, and the flight was graded on
how well they executed each maneuver.
Following the drill competition, the
cadets had Pass in Review practice. They
have really improved over the week, and
their parents will definitely be proud
of them when they see the final parade
as they Pass in Review in front of the
Wing Commander, Col Joe R. Smith.
Lunch came about noon, and the hungry
cadets went into the mess hall and stood
in line for their lunch of sub
sandwiches, cookies, fruit, and milk or
juice. The cadets ate quickly, knowing
that they didn’t have much time until
the next event.
The last competition of the day was PT,
and all cadets – basic and staff –
performed marvelously. Picking the best
flight was extremely hard.
Probably the most fun activity today was
Flight Sports. Each flight competed
against each other in different sports
such as Ultimate Frisbee, Tug-of-war and
Kick Ball. We all had a lot of fun, and
eventually the cadet staff joined in on
it too.
1.
2.
3.
4.
[1] The last inspection finds the
cadets in their best uniform. [2]-[4]
The Tug-of-war is the most popular
competition. In the end end, nobody
wins, so nobody loses either.
But the best was yet to come. The mess
hall in our training area was too small,
so we couldn’t all fit in. Luckily, they
let us borrow a larger mess hall, and
that was fine. All cadets got taken in
vans some three miles away, and got a
chance to chat some until they could
enter the mess hall. The meal was
delicious, and the Dining In was fun.
The Grog Table was where you took your
punishment if you had said or done
something wrong, or if someone just
wanted to be mean to you. The punished
were mostly cadet staff.
The Encampment Commander, Col Frank
Eldridge, told the cadets how well they
had done. Then the Wing Commander, Col
Joe R. Smith asked them three questions,
“Did you learn something? Did you like
the food? Did you have fun?” All cadets
replied “Yes Sir!” loudly to each one.
Then Col Smith added, “I hope you’ll go
back to your squadrons and share those
thoughts with everyone there. Tell them
what you liked, and show them how much
you learned. Then we’ll get more of you
for our next encampment.”
This year, the slide show at the end of
the meal had great songs for the sound
track, and the slides had some video
clips mixed in with them. They showed
all the things that the cadets had done
until that very afternoon, and it was
wonderful to see. The five Cadet PAOs
had taken all the photos and videos, and
they decided which to use, and picked
the music too. All cadets gave the PAO
Team a long and loud round of applause.
Now, all that is left is cleaning up the
billets, packing, and passing in review.
That will be tomorrow, the sixth day. It
hardly seems possible.
C/2d Lt Raphael Erie and C/2d Lt BrandiiRe'Ann
Davis, Cadet PA Team
2007 Texas Wing Winter Encampment 2007 –
Day Six, 31 December
CAMP
SWIFT, TX – Last night we packed our bags and finally
got to believe that encampment would be over on New
Year’s Eve. We were told that all buildings had to be
clean, so we spent a lot of time dusting, sweeping and
mopping. Then we got the best news. We would have no PT
in the morning!
On
this, our last day at Camp Swift, we were allowed to
sleep in until 0600. We had forgotten how good it was to
get up when the sun is starting to rise, and it seemed
like the day would be mild. It wasn’t as cold as it had
been, and we were sure that it would warm up by the time
we had to pass in review, dressed in our short sleeve
uniforms.
This
was the big-ticket item on the agenda for the basic
cadets, the Advanced Training Squadron (ATS), and most
of the cadet support staff. The Public Affairs (PA) Team
didn’t have to march because we had to take the photos
and write the story.
Everybody knew we would have no lunch, so we made the
best of the breakfast burritos, fruit and milk offered
to us. Soon we would be home and would be able to eat a
wonderful dinner, and sleep as late as we wanted on New
Year’s Day. There would be no classes today. Instead,
the encampment would pass in review.
After
cleanup and dressing in short-sleeve blues, the parade
was formed. There were nine flights of basic cadets, one
flight of cadet support personnel, and one small
Advanced Training Squadron. For passing in review, the
basic cadets formed in three squadrons, three flights to
the squadron. A fourth squadron was composed of the
cadet support flight and the ATS.
The
morning was very bright, without a cloud in the sky, so
it was warmer by 1000. But it was quite windy, too. We
would have two hours to practice until we passed in
review in front of the Wing Commander, Col. Joe R.
Smith, at noon.
For
the last time, we practiced forming and re-forming,
saluting, and reporting to the cadet commander. The
guidons waved in the wind as they were raised and then
swung over until they were parallel to the ground. That
is how guidon bearers salute when they are in a
formation. It looked so nice to see the flights making
the moves, all at the same time, under the bright sun.
From the reviewing stand, the dark green trees behind
the cadets set off the light blue of their short sleeve
shirts. Everyone looked sharp.
We
were getting excited about passing in review, but we
were also looking forward to going home. And we were
starting to be sorry that we would have to leave our new
friends behind. We had met cadets from other squadrons
all over Texas and some from other wings, too. There
were cadets from Colorado, Vermont, Florida, North
Carolina, Oklahoma and Louisiana. They were just like us
and it was easy to make friends with them. We all worked
together well.
At
1115 we marched away from the parade field and got under
the shade. Many tall pine trees protected us from the
sun that now was getting hot. We also had some cool
water, and that tasted awfully good. Then it was time to
re-form and march back to the parade field. Everybody
thought, “OK, now. This is it!”
1.
2.
3.
4.

[1]
The
Mess is assembled, and every cadet is happy that the
hard work is almost over. All that’s left is passing in
review on the following day at noon. [2]
The
Cadet Executive Officer and the Cadet Vice-Commander
take their turn at The Grog for an imaginary infraction
to the Rules of the Mess. Many more followed. It is a
tradition to accept punishment with good cheer.
[3]
The
Cadets pass in review and salute the reviewing stand.
The Wing Commander, Col. Joe R. Smith, returns their
salute. [4]
The
third basic squadron, composed of Golf, Hotel, and India
flights, salute the reviewing stand. In less than one
week, the basic cadets have learned to march in cadence
and now know a lot more about the Civil Air Patrol.
We
knew the Wing Commander was watching, so we wanted to
look smart. We got into position, formed in a long line
facing the Wing Commander across the field. We felt
confident that we would do it right. We just had to do
what we had practiced earlier, only this time we would
actually march and pass by the Wing Commander. As we
did, the command of, “Eyes, right!” would be given.
The
Cadet Vice-commander stepped forward and gave the first
command. It was like a slinky going down the stairs, one
step at a time. One thing led to the next, and the
complicated moves got ordered and executed. The squadron
commanders with their guidons formed together and
marched up towards the Cadet Commander and his staff.
They halted and reported to the cadet vice-commander,
who exchanged salutes and ordered them to return to the
formation. When they were back in place, the cadet
vice-commander gave the long and loud command we had
eagerly expected, “Pa-a-a-a-a-a-ss in review-w-w-w-w!”
Now it
was out turn. Everyone knew that this was not a practice
run but the real thing. So everyone marched keeping step
and obeying the commands. And, yes, it went off just
right. Hoo-ah!
When
the parade was over, the basic cadets got out-processed
and were released. They were free to go home! Some were
picked up by their parents. Others went back in CAP
vans, the same as they had arrived. Those from far away
got a ride to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
so they could take a flight home.
But
the support staff couldn’t leave yet. First the National
Guard had to check that the buildings were clean and
neat. This took some time, but it was finally over and
by 1500 we were free to go ourselves. The Encampment
Commander and the Wing Commander thanked us for our
work, and that made us feel good.
The
cadet PA staff didn’t pass in review, but we probably
walked and ran more than any of them. We did plenty of
legwork taking the photos and putting this article
together. The best part is that we learned a lot, and
now we’ll be better at doing our jobs at our own
squadrons.
The Cadet Public Affairs Team
|
|
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. |
|
|
Recruiting and Retention - Commentary
 |
Building your ranks
GLADEWATER, TX
–
We got lucky and gained direct access to a classroom full
of 7th and 8th graders, to whom we gave a broad presentation on Civil
Air Patrol opportunities and what the program can do for them.
The
materials we used for the presentation at the Junior High School
included the wonderful resources found in the PAO toolkit
–
which National has
provided
–
and some other things
that looked interesting to me. I downloaded some other excellent
material from National and, surprisingly, found some great downloads on
YouTube also
– some funny, some
silly, but some very good and to the point.
I wouldn't have thought about
YouTube as a
resource, but the Group Commander sent us all a URL pointing to a
tribute to CAP which someone had posted there. Searching YouTube for CAP
and Civil Air Patrol, I found a great deal of info which I liked and,
later, proved quite useful. There is a hilarious one titled, "Captain
Disciplinator" I believe. Anyway, I showed this one at a squadron
meeting, and it was a resounding success. Not only was it informative,
we had a great laugh too.
At any rate, I take bits and pieces that I
think appropriate and stick them together to produce a video that I show
the students. Then, I start with my comments on the video, mostly
clarifications and explanations about what they just saw, as well as
answering their questions. Some of them usually ask very pointed and
"meaty" questions, that give me the opportunity to round off the
presentation. Actually, if it weren't for the questions, the
presentation wouldn't be quite as good. But when they start asking
question, they're actually beginning to "own" the idea of becoming CAP
members, and that's when I know we're hitting it right.
Although this paragraph comes near the end,
it probably ought to go up front, because recruiting usually won't work
without this. I always use cadets as part of the presentation, and they
are always in BDU's. This is very important, because prospective members
need to see for themselves what CAP cadets look like. And how they act,
too. When the cadets are in front of the students, they have the
opportunity to become role-models, and some of the young students will
accept them as such, and want to emulate them. Since I pick them for
their personality, it never fails. Whether they join or not, the
students love them.
Then, there's the follow-up. I always make sure the job
is done right by getting in touch with each teacher to see if any
questions came up after we'd left. It has been our experience that many
students are shy about asking us questions directly, but will bombard
their teachers after we're no longer there. I always write a thank-you
letter to each teacher and the principal
–
within a day or two of our visit. In the letter, I always
offer to return whenever (and if ever) they wish to discuss CAP and/or
aerospace/aviation/science topics again.
And that's one of the ways in which we build
our ranks.
1st Lt Harold Parks, Commander, Gladewater
Corsair Composite Squadron |
| Safety
 |
December
is Always a Busy Month
I have really been pressed for time this month. I
have little to submit beyond the link to the AOPA
Air Safety foundation which has an abundance of
great resources, online seminars, courses in a
variety of aviation safety topics and several
articles on topics every pilot should review. The
link is:
http://www.aopa.org/training/
I want to encourage readers to use these sites to
increase their safety knowledge, and thereby enhance
the safety culture of Group III by raising our
collective safety knowledge.
Happy new Year! Let's make 2008 our safest year yet.
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 January, should you want to use them at your
own squadron.
January Flight
Safety Briefing (MS Word document)
January 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 |
Editor |
|
A USAF Chaplain's Guest Commentary

|
Chaplain's Stole Continues
Legacy
12/5/2007 - MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE,
Idaho –
While we are losing many things from the
greatest generation, there is one thing at Mountain Home Air Force Base
that has seen battle since 1944.
Chaplain (Capt.) Samuel Smith (right), 366th Fighter Wing chaplain, now
owns a black chaplain's stole that began its days in the ministry when
Army Chaplain (1st. Lt.) Herman "Gus" Gustafson landed with his Army
unit in Normandy, France, just days after D-Day in June 1944. The stole
immediately began its combat ministry during the confusion of intense
battle soon after the landing. The stole clearly identified Chaplain
Gustafson as God's agent in the mist of that battle. However, it did not
make him invulnerable to German bombs and bullets as he faced the same
dangers as the soldiers he ministered to.
Chaplain Gustafson wore the stole around
his neck when he was assigned to Gen. George S. Patton's Third Army.
"Chaplain Gustafson would tell me how he
was crawling in mud and praying with some soldiers, when General Patton
came along, crouched and said, 'Move over, let us all pray.' Chaplain
Gustafson said Patton got down in the mud that day and prayed with these
soldiers and then the general 'got up and swore something terrible to
the enemy','" said Chaplain Jim Sands, Mountain Home AFB auxiliary
Protestant chaplain and retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, who
received the stole from Chaplain Gustafson.
The black stole saw a lot of combat in the
last major German offensive in Belgium, commonly known as the "Battle of
the Bulge," in which Allied troops suffered more than 77,000 casualties.
Through it all, comforting the dying, burying the dead, tending to the
wounded, the black stole was there, bringing comfort and hope to the
needy and the fallen. In that freezing winter environment, the
heavy-weighted stole pressed from soldier to soldier. In his 1945
writings, Chaplain Gustafson called himself a "disciple of
encouragement" and talked about how, "I'm pressing on and the Lord's
still in charge."
Years after the war, Chaplain Gustafson
told his family he had the song "Silent Night" played on a small
portable organ on Christmas Eve 1945. He was assigned to a U.S. Army
Post near a Czechoslovakian border town, where there were more than 600
German POWs interned. The POWs loved their famous German song, "Silent
Night," which they sang from behind barbed wire. Chaplain Gustafson wore
the black stole that Christmas night among the German Christians, and
brought much faith and compassion to help heal the wounds of war
–
for both sides
–
on that cold December of 1945.
Reading Chaplain Gustafson' military
service record, the black stole had marched more than 600 miles across
France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria and finally
Czechoslovakia. It is quite probable that he had worn the stole when
General Patton's Third Army liberated the Nazi concentration camp at
Buchenwald.
"As a 20-year-old Army sergeant, I saw a
chaplain wearing a black stole in 1969, west of Pleiku, Vietnam," said
Chaplain Sands. "Our 12-man team had an unexpected surprise visit to our
remote village by the chaplain, who flew in on a helicopter after we
endured a rough overnight firefight. We all knew who the chaplain was on
the battlefield by his long, distinctive black stole. The stole was a
powerful image to those who were being ministered to, even to those of
us who never went to church.
"By the mid-1980s, I was a young Air Force chaplain (Major) wearing
exactly that same unique type of World War II black clergy stole that I
had seen in Vietnam," said Chaplain Sands. "In 1990, I requested to be a
part of the Gulf War military build-up, and was once again on my way to
war, but this time to give comfort and spiritual support, not just
receive it as I had done in Vietnam. The black-cloth stole I often wore
around my neck during the Gulf War was the one passed down to me from
retired Army Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Gustafson."
The black stole would continue on its
journey in history, this time with a different chaplain doing the
ministry.
"On Christmas Eve 1990, I was leading
Christmas worship services wearing Chaplain Gus' old World War II black
stole, in a worship tent on the edge of the Saudi Arabian desert," said
Chaplain Sands. "That stole, used only for worship services and other
unique moments of ministry and visitation, helped set the tone for
pastoral ministry, early in the 1990-1991 Gulf War. "Wearing Chaplain
Gus' stole at a 1991 outdoor Easter Sunrise Service in the sands of
Saudi Arabia, I thought of him on the beaches of Normandy," said
Chaplain Sands. "On many Easter services before me and in World War II,
this black stole had been seen by thousands of troops as they received
ministry."
A few days after the 1991 liberation of
Kuwait City, the stole continued its journey with Chaplain Sands, this
time in the jump seat of a C-130 bound for Kuwait City, accompanied by
Elizabeth Dole, President of the American Red Cross. Mrs. Dole and the
Red Cross were bringing comfort, aid and 10 Red Cross nurses to help
more than 600 local children who had been held and tortured as prisoners
of the Iraqis while they occupied Kuwait.
"The old battered black stole certainly
kept me busy for decades, as I barnstormed around the world in the happy
moments of birth, baptism, breaking of bread, and the blessings for many
a bride," said Chaplain Sands.
The stole was an essential element of
ministry in moments of war, airplane crashes, natural disasters,
frequent deployments and many funerals over the decades. According to
Chaplain Sands, the stole is more than a World War II relic or vestige
of past military ministry; it has "served as a reminder to all of God's
presence for today's military."
In April, Chaplain Sands passed down the
stole to a third generation of military chaplains. This time, the stole
went to Chaplain Samuel Smith, a Protestant chaplain assigned to the
366th Fighter Wing. As a dedicated military chaplain who understands the
value and symbol of the stole, Chaplain Smith has already taken the
black stole out for ministry during combat training in the Idaho desert.
For a few weeks of 'tent city' worship and
communion in the remote desert, the old stole saw limited action once
again. Only time will tell when the stole will see combat duty once
again, as Chaplain Smith deploys into harm's way, taking the entrusted
old black stole to minister to American warriors as it did in World War
II over six decades ago.
"I can't wait to take this stole to Iraq or
Afghanistan," said Chaplain Smith. "I sit here in my office and look at
it hanging on the wall and just imagine what stories this stole could
pass along if it could talk. From its journeys with Chaplain Gus to
Chaplain Sands, this is something that has much meaning to me, and I'm
honored to have been entrusted with it. It motivates me to spread the
word of the ministry and I am looking forward to helping all that I can
as I wear it around my neck."
Like Chaplain Gustafson and Chaplain Sands
before him, Chaplain Smith says that he will pass down this battlefield
stole to yet another generation of military chaplains when the time
comes. When it is passed along, the stole will continue to comfort
American service members as they answer our nation's call, during war
and peace.
Reported by Senior Airman Brian
Stives, 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office |
|
Useful Links |
Aviation & more
Aircrew &
Flightline Personnel Training Materials (CAP NHQ)
PAO Resources
Federal & State Resources (DHS, USAF,
Terrorism)
Safety
US Decorations Rack
Builder
–
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|
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|
Addison Eagles CS
 |
Squadron Promotions, 27 November
ADDISON, TX
–
On November 27,
2007, the Addison Eagles CS, Group III, Texas
Wing promoted one officer and ten
cadets during a presentation at its
headquarters. The following personnel were
promoted to the new rank listed:
|
Officer |
C/1st Lt John LeRoy |
C/SrA Moellendorf |
|
1st Lt Chris Goodloe |
C/2d Lt Stephen Miller |
C/SrA Matthew Jones |
|
Cadets |
C/SMSgt Daniel Stolzer |
C/A1C Jacob Hughes |
|
C/Capt Nathan Carey |
C/SSgt Benjamin Legband |
C/A1C James Jenkins |
|
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1]
Maj Scott McCleneghanand and 1st Lt Chris
Goodloe.
[2]
Maj Scott McCleneghan and C/Capt Nathan Carey.
[3]
Maj Scott McCleneghan and C/1st Lt John LeRoy.
[4]
Major Scott McCleneghan,
LeRoy Brother, C/1st Lt John LeRoy, LeRoy
Brother, Mrs. Rosanne LeRoy and SM John LeRoy.
[5]
Maj Scott McCleneghan and C/2d Lt Stephen
Miller.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
[6]
Major Scott
McCleneghan,
C/SMSgt Daniel Stolzer and SM Athena Stolzer.
[7]
Major Scott
McCleneghan,
C/SSgt Benjamin Legband and 2d Lt Scott
Legband.
[8]
Major Scott
McCleneghan,
C/SrA Moellendorf and Mrs Moellendorf.
[9]
Major Scott
McCleneghan,
C/SrA Matthew Jones and Grandfathter.
[10]
Mrs Hughes, C/A1C
Jacob Hughes and Maj Scott McCleneghan.
[11]
Mrs. Jenkins, C/A1C James
Jenkins and Maj Scott McClenghan
High attendance by parents, family members, and friends
packed the house and created a standing-room-only atmosphere, which left
many CAP members having to listen to the presentation from adjacent
hallways. The lack of space was a welcome challenge, since it
demonstrated the strong support provided to Addison Eagle's members by
their families or significant others.
Success in CAP, at any level, requires support and understanding from
spouses, families, employers – and the list goes on. Although many of
those mentioned above are not directly involved in CAP, they make many
of the same sacrifices and deserve our appreciation. The members of
Addison Eagles CS say, "Thank You" to all those who make it possible for
us to serve.
(2d Lt Michael Bownds) |
|
Apollo CS
 |
Cadet Teaches IMU Class
for Group III, 1 December
AUSTIN, TX – Cadet Michael Moody
taught a class on the new
computer-based Incident
Management Utility System. Civil
Air Patrol is using the new
system to make our missions a
whole lot easier.
With a great deal of effort by
Maj Dan Williams, commander of
the Kittinger Phantom Senior
Squadron in Austin, we were able
to use the Seton Computer Lab
and Learning Center. It was very
nice! Cadet Moody covered all
types of topics – how to install
the program, how to upload
information, how to use the
information, and how to print
out the completed forms.
1.
2.
3.
4.
[1] Cadet Moody teaches
the IMU class [2] Capts
Steve Barclay and John Benavides
compare notes. [3] The
classroom at Seton Learning
Center was an excellent
facility. Students were able get
answers to individual questions.
[4] Refreshments are
served during break time.
Members of Apollo Composite
Squadron, Kittinger Phantom
Senior Squadron, and the Texas
Legislative Squadron attended
the training..
There were 12 attendees from
every aspect of the CAP
mission. The students were
Squadron Commanders, Pilots,
Scanners, Observers and
Communication personnel.
The 4-hour class was packed with
information, and every person
went home with a better
understanding of the IMU
system. All participants were
very pleased with the direction
that IMU takes the mission, and
appreciative of the automated
mission forms.
(C/CMSgt Michael Moody)
First Lego League Robotics
Competition,
9 December
ROUND ROCK, TX –
Julius Caesar, upon returning
from having conquered Gaul, is
supposed to have said, "I came,
I saw, I conquered." Well, the
Apollo Composite Squadron, Group
III, Texas Wing didn't go that
far
–
just down the road from
Georgetown
– and
we must honestly say, "We
went, we tried, we
lost". However, defeat has its
own rewards, since we sure
learned a lot from it. One of
the things that became obvious
is that either the standards had
not been clearly given to the
judges, or they chose not to
apply them, because their
findings don't seem to have
address the same criteria.
The Robot Design
judges didn't agree on
anything. Between the two of
them, they marked almost every
good and bad fields on the
grading paper. What one liked,
the other one didn't. The only
written comment was, "Nice
design and programming
ideas. Great job with the car
design and delivery."
One of them thought that the
robot was too complicated.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1] Round Rock High
transformed the gym into a
world-class Robotics competition
arena. [2] (L-R, F-B)
Becca Matzen, Cdt Erica Condrey,
Cdt Cameron Condrey, Cdt Michael
Moody, Wesley McClary, Cdt Jon
Kokel. [3] Becca Matzen,
Cdt Michael Moody, and a very
lovely umpire discuss the final
score of round 1. [4] Cdt
Jon Kokel, Cdt Cameron Condrey,
Cdt Michael Moody, Cdt Erica
Condrey, Wesley McClary, and
Becca Matzen present project to
Judges. [5] Cdt Jon Kokel,
Wesley McClary, Becca Matzen, Cdt
Michael Moody, Cdt Erica Condrey,
Cdt Cameron Condrey, and
Technical Judges.
One of the Teamwork
judges wrote, "Overall, the team
had a great attitude. Expressed
strong interest, able to
communicate thoughts. While the
team could not define gracious
professionalism, they were able
to silently exemplify the term."
The other judge wrote, "Good
communications - Great Job."
The Project
Presentation
judges produced a mixed bag. One
of them wrote,
"Outstanding team work and
collaboration! Solid
Comprehensive analysis. Team
needs to show more fun and
enthusiasm, don't be
nervous." (An odd comment, after
last year's judge objected to
the WOW factor). The second
judge gave good marks on
"Language Use," "Completeness,
Teamwork," "Background, Data &
Graphics," and "Analysis &
Conclusions." His comment was,
"Good research, creative,
proactive."
In spite of it all, and the
disappointing outcome, we really
had a great time. The team
members proved to be absolutely
awesome young people. I was so
proud of them!
The team is grateful to the
squadron commander, 1st Lt Cheri
Fischler, and Lt Col Rayford
Brown for their volunteer work
at the event. It was really nice
to have the added support and
friendly faces looking at us
from the crowd. And a very
special thanks to Capt Steve
Barclay, of Kittinger Phantom
Senior Squadron, who taught us
so many wonderful things.
Without him, our project
wouldn't have been what it was.
(1st Lt Sue Kristoffersen,
Robotics Coach)
Texas Wing
Winter Encampment,
26-31 December
CAMP
SWIFT, TX
–
One
encampment, 4
squadrons, 11
flights, and 250 CAP
members. Winter
encampment is the
most difficult
achievement before
the “Billy Mitchell”
award and transition
to cadet officership.
For six days, cadets
are taxed to their
utmost. Their mental
and physical
abilities are tested
beyond their wildest
dreams. A few of the
tasks to be
completed in a day
are: Physical
Training (PT), four
classes on CAP and
USAF knowledge,
preparing barracks
and uniforms for
inspection, and
studying the
Standard Operating
Instructions (SOI)
for the final test.
Not
only are the tasks
difficult, but the
schedule is
staggering. Reveille
sounds at 0445 hours
and lights out comes
at 2300 hours. In
between, cadets find
themselves always
busy with an
activity or, if
waiting for one,
studying their SOI’s.
Discipline is much
more appreciated and
enforced at
encampment. For
instance, SOI’a are
to be studied by
lifting one's upper
arm to 90 degrees
from one's body and
the booklet is to be
held 5 inches from
one's face. Anything
else is
unacceptable. The
first few days are
especially tough,
and designed to weed
out those who cannot
or don’t want to
continue. In this
way, only the most
determined, the
toughest and
best-motivated
people get through.
This
was my first
encampment.
In-processing
started at 1300
hours, and
immediately my
flight and I were
thrown into a
whirlwind of
activity. First of
all, our Chief
Tactical 0fficer (TAC)
inspected our
luggage for illegal
articles such as
knives, cell phones,
drugs, explosives,
food, or anything
else that was
forbidden. Though
inspecting is the
correct word, it was
more like mad
rummaging. All the
while the TAC was
asking us if we had
contraband, and was
going through our
luggage as quickly
and thoroughly as
possible. Once the
inspection was
completed, we had to
stow our items
properly and make
our beds tucked with
"hospital corners."
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1] On the
second day, uniform
and bunk inspection.
Cdt Nelson is third
from left. [2]
There was a lot of
drilling all the
while we were at
encampment. [3]
On the evening of
the third day, after
dinner, we had
"Spirit Time" where
lots of hollering
helped blow off
steam. Many of us
almost lost our
voice for a few
days. [4]
Studying the SOI was
a constant
preoccupation, and
Cdt Nelson
demonstrates how to
answer correctly.
[5] Cdt Nelson
helps clear broken
branches away from
the parade field, so
the encampment will
be able to pass in
review. (Photos:
The Cadet PAO Team)
Flights Alpha
through Golf were
basic cadets,
meaning that it was
their first
encampment. Flights
Hotel and India were
in the Advanced
Training Squadron or
ATS. I was a basic
and assigned to
Bravo flight, the
Buccaneers. My
flight Sergeant was
Cadet Senior Master
Sergeant John
Shanahan, a very
motivating person
and a great leader.
His hair was as red
as it gets, and he
had a temper to
match. Our Flight
Commander was Cadet
First Lieutenant
John Leroy. He
looked the complete
opposite of our
Flight Sergeant, was
of quieter
disposition, but his
humor or seriousness
showed just as
plainly.
Every
day had a similar
pattern: Opening
Formation, PT,
breakfast, then two
classes on CAP and
USAF knowledge, and
inspections. After
lunch came Pass in
Review (PIR)
practice and one or
two more classes.
Next was barracks
time, which
essentially meant
ironing time, shoe
polishing time, and
bed making technique
practice. Dinner
came and went like a
flash, followed by
one more class,
personal hygiene
time, devotionals,
and lights out.
For
me, an important
aspect of learning
is finding out what
I don't know or what
I have done wrong.
It worked the same
for the other
cadets. Members of
the Standards
Evaluations Team
(SET) would walk up
and down the lines
waiting to get into
the mess hall,
asking cadets
questions about the
information in their
SOI’s. This way SET
finds out what one
doesn’t know and has
one study it, making
one's knowledge
deeper.
The
second day, flights
Alpha, Bravo, and
Charlie (the 46th
Squadron) went to
the shooting range
on another part of
the National Guard
camp. The rifles
were .22 bolt action
and a joy to shoot.
But before anyone
touched the
firearms, we got a
safety briefing and
answered questions
on firearm safety.
Once allowed to
shoot, we took our
ten sighting-in
shots, and then
proceeded to
discharge the other
forty rounds into
the remaining ten
targets, 50 feet
away. Each one of us
concentrated on
shooting his/her
best, to try to earn
a medal for
marksmanship.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
[6]-[9] Bravo
Flight wins the
first round of the
tug-of-war, then
falls to the ground
when the opposing
flight lets go of
the rope. [10]
Bragging rights
come with the win.
[11]-[12]
When they proved
unbeatable, Bravo
flight was pitted
against two flights,
who finally beat
them. (Photos:
The Cadet PAO Team)
On
the fourth day, we
competed in flight
sports. After doing
PT tests
–
running the mile,
doing as many
push-ups as we could
without stopping,
completing as many
sit-ups as possible
in a minute, and
reaching for
flexibility
–,
we competed in
sports such as
kickball and
tug-of-war. In
tug-of-war
especially, our
flight did
outstandingly well.
The judges had to
match two flights
against our one to
just barely drag us
over the line.
Eventually, more and
more people wanted
to compete in
tug-of-war, so the
judges put the
entire 46th squadron
on one side and the
47th squadron on the
other. The result
was that the rope
snapped, and because
there were so many
people on the line,
many tripped and
fell, among them our
flight sergeant.
The
fifth day was still
challenging, but our
flight had started
working as a team
and was
accomplishing tasks
more easily,
drilling better, and
performing correctly
as a unit. We spent
nearly the entire
day getting ready
for the Dining In,
the formal dinner
concluding the most
active part of
encampment, leaving
only PIR and
out-processing
before we would go
home. The Dining In
meal was delicious
and unlike the other
meals, we were
allowed to take our
time eating.
(Usually we had
about six minutes
from the time we
started eating to
the time that we had
to leave the table.)
After dinner, the
Texas Wing
Commander, Col, Joe
R. Smith, addressed
the encampment for a
few minutes,
receiving thunderous
applause. Col. R.
Frank Eldridge then
took a few minutes
to praise the cadet
staff for all the
hard work they had
done. Deafening
applause followed
once more.
That
night we had a party
in our barracks. One
of the PAO members
came in with a
computer and
speakers and played
music for us.
Ironically, our TAC
officer brought us
ice cream sandwiches
and Dr. Peppers to
celebrate. Last but
not least, our
flight sergeant came
back with a
fractured wrist, but
was able to lead us
through the rest of
encampment. Hooo-Ah!
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
[13] Bravo
flight readies
itself for the
Dining In, marching
towards the CAP vans
that will take them
to the borrowed big
mess hall. [14]
Waiting for the mess
hall doors to open,
we are excited that
encampment is almost
over [15]-[16]
The meal tasted
delicious,
especially since we
were always hungry
thanks to the
constant activity
[17] Bravo
flight is formed on
the line, ready to
pass in review
[18] Bravo
flight passes in
review before the
Wing Commander, Col.
Joe R. Smith, as it
executes "Eyes
right." (Photos:
The Cadet PAO Team)
On
the final day, we
got up at 0600
instead of 0445 and
didn’t have PT that
morning. I had
really been enjoying
the exercise and was
disappointed to miss
it. After breakfast
we changed into
blues and practiced
PIR for an hour or
two. The whole
encampment got a
quick drink of water
and then the game
was on. This was the
real deal. I was a
little nervous at
first, but
everything went off
without a hitch.
When the command,
”Eyes right” came, I
snapped my head to
the side so quickly
I thought I would
break something.
Fortunately I did
not, and the parade
went on smoothly.
After
being dismissed a
loneliness hit me,
and I realized that
I was going to miss
Bravo Flight and
life at the
encampment. We, the
flight members, had
bonded together and
it hurt to leave. I
look forward to next
year and another
encampment to build
my confidence,
expand my knowledge,
and get challenged
to my limits once
again.
I would like to
express my special
thanks to Texas Wing
Commander Col. Joe
R. Smith, Encampment
Commander Col. R.
Frank Eldridge,
Cadet Commander C/Maj
Gus Rojas, Texas
Wing Chaplain Maj
Ron Whitt, the PAO
team, the SET team,
the KP team, and the
rest of the
encampment staff.
Some day, I hope to
be a member of the
staff too.
(C/A1C Christian
Nelson)
Celebrating
the end of yet
another year of
Robotics, 31
December.
GEORGETOWN, TX
–
After
the robotics
competition was over
we dealt with
holidays, vacations,
and encampment. It
seemed we would
never be able to get
our "End of the 2007
FLL Robotics Season"
party
scheduled. Final,
someone came up with
the magic date, 31
December. So the
Apollo Composite
Squadron Robotics
Team held a New
Year's Eve /
Robotics is Over
party at Squadron
Commander Fischler’s
home. This was the
place where the
Robotics Team had
met weekly for
months, or some
might call it the
local staging area
for the Robotics
Team.
Cadet Erica Condrey
was put in charge,
and charge she
took. Party time,
party foods, and
party excitement all
was passed before
and approved by the
home owner (1st Lt
Cheri Fischler)
prior to the
event. The party
consisted of some
fabulous food;
decadent brownies,
chips, dips,
beautiful trays of
fruit (every kind
you can imagine),
drinks that even
included mock
champagne for the
toast given both to
the New Year and for
the effort expended
by the robotics team
in preparation of
the competition.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1] Cdts
Becca Matzen, Erica
Condrey, Michael
Moody and Cameron
Condrey try out
their singing
voices. [2]
Cdts Becca Matzen,
Erica Condrey and
Michael Moody sang
until the cows came
home. [3] Cdt
Michael Moody does
the Limbo dance.
[4] Cdt Erica
Condrey has a
sparkling good time.
[5] One cadet
called this
pictures, "The hands
of tomorrow
displaying their
ever so bright
future."
Cadet Cameron
Condrey brought his
Guitar Hero 3 for
all to play. 1st Lt
Sue Kristoffersen
said with amusement,
"My parents thought
the twist was out
there, good thing
they didn’t see
this." Mr. Matzen,
Cdts Zeke Matzen and
Becca Matzen’s dad.
came to help out and
suggested the Limbo.
What a hoot. How low
can you go? Karaoke
was loud, but
surprisingly
good. Although we
spent a great deal
of money on
fireworks, the
county turned on a
fire ban that
included
fireworks. The
ground was too dry
for the lack of
rain. After watering
the yard very well,
and standing
centered on a
concrete slab, we
lit a few sparklers
and let that be our
celebration. We’ll
save the fireworks
for a safer date.
Everybody went home
after the ball had
dropped, they were
filled with food,
joy, excitement, and
a though of how the
New Year was going
to be! That would
be Fantastic,
in case you hadn't
guessed.
(C/CMSgt Michael
Moody)
|
|
Crusader CS
 |
Squadron Christmas Party, 18
December
DUNCANVILLE, TX
– The Crusader Composite Squadron’s annual Christmas
Party was hosted by Maj Russell Miller and his wife at their
home in Duncanville. Many of the squadron’s senior members
and spouses, as well as cadets, were in attendance.
Following a delicious pot-luck dinner, the evening’s main
entertainment was a gift-exchange game. Participants drew
numbers to determine the order in which they could select a
wrapped gift from under the tree, or take a gift from
someone who had gone before them. This led to some rather
spirited activity, with much laughter and good will. In
spite of our advanced technological civilization, there was
a momentary (and much celebrated) return to "barter society"
status.
A good time was had by all.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1] After a potluck feast, members played a gift
exchange game. [2] Maj Russell Miller explains the
rules of the gift-exchange game. [3] Capt Jackie
Browning (holding the Santa mug) and Lt Col E.S. “Tex”
Collins compare gifts. [4] Maj Russell Miller opens a
present as others watch in excited anticipation. [5]
Cadets and friends at the 2007 Crusader Composite Squadron’s
Christmas Party. (Photos #1 and 3, C/SSgt Robert
Severance IV. All others, 1st Lt Robert Severance III)
(1st Lt Robert Severance III)
My Winter Encampment at ATS, 26-31 December
GRAND PRAIRIE, TX
– I had attended the 2007 Texas Wing Summer
Encampment last summer as a cadet basic, and that was a lot
of work, but fun too. Then, when Winter Encampment was
announced, C/SrA Kendall Pruitt and I decided to attend the
Advanced Training Squadron (ATS). I didn't know what to
expect, but was willing to try. We were the only cadets from
our squadron to attend this activity.
On 26 December we arrived at Camp Swift, near Bastrop, TX,
and joined 40 other cadets for this course. There hadn’t
been an ATS since 1992, so this event was a very exciting
and unique opportunity. We were challenged mentally and
physically. Also there were about 120 cadet basics, but we
didn't see them very much, other than during physical
training (PT) and meal time.
We had classes on how to be a better leader, stages of a
group of people forming into a team, and different
leadership styles. The classes were taught by C/Lt Col
Wright, C/1st Lt Andrews, and C/CMSgt James McCann. There
were other speakers too, including Capt Jane Smalley, the
TXWG Director of Cadet Programs.
1.
2.
3.
4.
[1] C/SSgt Robert Severance IV signs in for Advanced
Training Squadron at the 2007 TXWG Winter Encampment. [2]
C/SSgt Robert Severance IV stands at the foot of his
bunk. [3] Juliette Flight, one of two Advanced
Training Squadron units at the 2007 TXWG Winter Encampment,
prepares to pass in review on the last day of encampment.
[4] C/SSgt Robert Severance IV and his public affairs
mentor, Capt Arthur Woodgate, Group III TXWG PAO. Cadet
Severance, who turns 14 in January, is one of the youngest
Cadet PAOs in TXWG. (Photos and captions: 1st Lt Robert
Severance III)
Each day, we got up at 0430 to do PT, and then we had
personal time for one hour. Later we headed off to
breakfast. We had things like pancakes, eggs, sausage,
French toast, yoghurt, little boxes of cereal, and also
juice and milk. After eating we went off to standby
inspections. We stood at parade rest at our bunks for
uniform inspection and bunk inspection.
After inspection we headed off to our classes on leadership
and drill and ceremonies. One of the things we had to do was
build our own guidon to represent our flight. Our flight was
Juliette. Our mascot was the juggernaut. We made our banner
out of a basic’s brown T-shirt. C/Lt Col Wright told us how
proud he was to command the first ATS in many years. He will
be leaving for the Army soon.
5.
6.
7.
[5] The ATS formed for passing in review. Cdt
Severance's flight is the first one (left). [6]
Passing in Review, after the command "Eyes, right." [7]
Cdts Robert Severance IV and Kendall Pruitt, proudly
displaying their end-of-course certificates. (Photos and
captions, 2d Lt Kenneth Pruitt.)
For lunch we had a variety of meals, like pizza, turkey or
Bologna sandwiches, salad, granola bars, plenty of milk and
juice, and also left-overs. After lunch we practiced
drilling and spent some time preparing group presentations
for the upcoming day.
For dinner we would have things like lasagna, corn,
broccoli, meatloaf, and always fruit, milk and juice. After
dinner we would have group time and personal time. Then
lights out. It was not as tiring as when I had been a basic.
As a cadet basic, I had wondered how the SET (Standards
Evaluation Team) figured out how well we had done. That's
one of the things they taught us at ATS. Now I'll be able to
apply for a cadet staff position as a flight sergeant, and
help train cadet basics. Our chief said that ATS is a great
place to learn how to be a better leader and drill
instructor.
I had a great time at ATS.
(C/SSgt Robert Severance IV)
|
|
Dallas CS
 |
CPR Training, 1 December
DALLAS, TX
– On 1 December, eager to
qualify and be able to work in a ground team, Dallas
CS cadets participated in a CPR training class. The
class, arranged by DCFC 1st Lt Joe Kaplor, was
provided by Dr. Olivia Villagra of the American
Heart Association. Five cadets, Patrick Brumett,
Collin Cathcart, G. Alex Carlson, Michael Kaplor,
and Gregory Lippas, received the training and
certification. They were joined by 2d Lt Sue
Cathcart, 1st Lt Joe Kaplor, and Sponsor Member
Denna Shaw who also took the training..
1.
2.
3.
[1] Cdt Alex Carlson practices
CPR techniques on Resuci-Annie. [2]
Cdt Gregory Lippas practices CPR
techniques for an infant. [3]
Cdt Patrick Brumett is shown CPR techniques for an
infant.
Career Expo, DFW Airport, 14 December
DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, TX
– Dallas CS members helped man
a booth at the Aviation and Transportation Career
Expo 2007, providing information about the Civil Air
Patrol. This was the fourth year of this now annual
event, sponsored by DFW, the FAA, and American
Airlines. Schools from around the DFW Metroplex were
invited to bring their students to the Career Expo
so that they could learn about careers in the
aviation industry.
A number of students seemed
interested in what they could do now with as CAP
members. Group III Commander Lt Col Owen Younger
flew Cadets Michael Kaplor and Patrick Brumett to
the event from Addison, in a CAP Cessna. CAP had two
of the only three aircraft present at the event, on
this very cold and windy day. 1st Lt Joe Palor and
2d Lt Sue Cathcart also helped dispense information
at the booth, along with representatives of Addison,
Irving, and Mesquite Composite Squadrons.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
[1] The booth was well attended. [2]
By the CAP plane, Lt Col Owen Younger (in flight
suit) with Dallas CS members. [3]-[4] Many
interested students stopped by the CAP booth, asking
many questions. [5] Students
were mesmerized by the displays of riflery by Cadet
Garcia of the Group III Honor Guard. [6]
The project officer, 2d Lt Michael Bownds, the
Addison CS PAO, is interviewed by a crew filming the
event.
Seasonal Relaxation, 14 December
DALLAS, TX
– Dallas CS Senior members and
guests gathered at the home of Lt Col Rich Graham
and his wife, Pat, to pause for an evening of
holiday fun and relaxation, joined by former
squadron member and now Group III Commander, Lt Col
Owen Younger. The party, coordinated by 1st Lt
Brendan Goss, was a huge success, as attendants were
introduced to the Canadian game of Crud,
traditionally played by RCAF members and adopted by
air forces throughout the world. Crud champion of
the evening was Capt Kim Gann. For more on the game
of Crud, see
http://www.aewa.org/Library/crud2.html. The
evening was topped off by a memorable story of Pat
Graham’s mother and the reading of a writing she had
remembered until her death, followed by the popping
of Holiday Crackers.
1.
2.
3.
[1] Squadron members watch on
as Lts Jennifer Goss and Kim Gann battle it out in
Crud. [2] Lt Kim Gann
shows her form at Crud. [3
Attendees enjoy the sharing of a joke
included in the holiday crackers.
Promotions, Honors, Aerospace, and Holiday Fun, 17
December
DALLAS, TX
– The December 17 meeting of
Dallas CS was filled to the brim before a break for
the holidays. The meeting began with Cadet
promotions and honors:
Cdt Gregory Lippas, promoted to C/Amn
Cdt Donald Expose, promoted to CA1C
Cdt G. Alex Carlson, promoted to CA1C
Cdt Michael Kaplor, presented with 2
bronze triangle clasps for his Encampment ribbon to
designate the two additional encampments previously
attended.
Cdts Alex Carlson, Gregory Lippas,
Michael Kaplor, Collin Cathcart and Patrick Brumett
were presented with their CPR Certificates
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

[1] Cdt Gregory Lippas earns
the Gen J.F. Curry award and is promoted to C/Amn.
[2] Donald Expose earns the Gen
Hap Arnold award and is promoted to C/A1C.
[3] Cdt G. Alex Carlson earns the
Gen Hap Arnold award and is promoted to C/A1C.
[4] Cdt Michael Kaplor is
recognized for having attended multiple encampments.
[5] Cdts Alex Carlson, Gregory
Lippas, Michael Kaplor, Collin Cathcart and Patrick
Brumett receive CPR Certificates.
Afterwards, there were separate cadet
and senior member sessions of aerospace
education. Lt Col Rich Graham addressed the senior
members, while Capt Leonard Ellis talked about
charts with the cadets. The cadets ended their
evening with a holiday gift exchange, in which they
swapped gifts with an aerospace theme through a
Chinese auction variant.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
[6] Lt Col Rich Graham shows
slides. [7] Capt
Leonard Ellis leads cadets. [8]
C/SSgt Collin Cathcart peeks at his
gift, cleverly wrapped in a chart. [9]
C/CMSgt Matthew Patrick opens a gift.
[10] C/SSgt Avery Rains with his
new gift. [11] C/A1C
Alex Carlson opens his gift. [12]
Cadet Patrick Brumett shows off his
gift. [13] C/Amn
Gregory Lippas displays his gift. [14]
C/A1C Donald Expose is proud of his
new squadron challenge coin. [15]
C/TSgt Michael Kaplor is happy to
receive a squadron challenge coin too.
(2d Lt Sue Cathcart)
|
|
Gladewater Corsair CS
 |
Strike Up the Band, 4 December
GLADEWATER, TX – On Tuesday, 4 December, the color guard from the
Gladewater Corsairs Composite Squadron, Group III, Texas Wing led off
the Christmas Parade in downtown Gladewater. Our squadron has headed the
parade for a number of years now and we always look forward to this
event. This year’s parade was the longest ever, as well as the most
entertaining we have ever seen. The number of local groups participating
has increased significantly, and the professionalism and creativity
shown is remarkable for what might be considered a small-town event.
Participating in the color guard were C/CMSgt Andrew Alexander, C/SrA
Nathan Cardino, C/Amn Austin Cheatham and C/AB Bradley Jamison. C/CMSgt
Jarrod Alexander assisted in getting the uniforms and parade gear in
tip-top order prior to the parade. In recent weeks, our cadets have been
working very hard to upgrade the appearance and performance of the color
guard. We hope to be able to make the color guard available to other
events and municipalities for their various festivities.
Oh, What a Night! - A Personal Experience, 14-16 December
GLADEWATER, TX –
On the weekend of 14-16 December, the Gladewater Corsairs Composite
Squadron, Group III, Texas Wing held a weekend-long Field Training
Exercise (FTX). Although we knew that the weather report was not too
promising, we decided to go rain or shine, since a large percentage of
actual search missions happen during inclement weather. Therefore,
proceeding would be a good way to experience bad weather as we worked,
and learn how to deal with it. The forecast called for heavy rain during
the night, a cold Saturday, and below freezing on Sunday morning. A
member had brought along a pop-up camper that was set at the edge of our
camp area, and was reserved for the female chaperone that had come with
us. Since this was private land, there was also a house on the property,
belonging to another one of our members.
Early Friday night, all was well. We arrived at the training site at
1900 and proceeded to set up camp. Challenges began almost immediately,
as various members required assistance erecting their tents and getting
organized for the weekend ahead. A large cache of firewood was already
in place, so we didn't need to stumble around in the dark looking for
some
– through the kindness of a prospective senior member, two
truckloads of firewood had been delivered to our main campsite. Hungry
cadets prepared their evening meals, and cadet senior staff organized
their Charge of Quarters (CQ) roster for the remainder of the night, so
there would be an alert vigil at all times. At 2200, all but the CQ on
duty retired to their tents.
Early on Saturday, a severe storm passed through the area. Very high
winds developed, and the rain was quite heavy. The senior cadet staff
immediately got up and made sure that all cadets were OK
– warm and dry
– and then reported their findings to the commander. All was
well, for the moment, but the storm seemed to intensify. Again, the
senior cadets surveyed their charges, and returned with another
favorable report.
By this time, not all was so well with the commander. He awoke when his
feet started getting cold, and thought this wasn't reasonable, as he was
snug in his sleeping bag with two blankets on top of that. Since the
weather forecast had warned of cold weather, he had prepared for it. The
only possibility was that
– Oh, no!
– his feet were, indeed, wet. After finding his flashlight, his
suspicion became horrible fact. There was water leaking into his tent in
the area around his feet and the sleeping bag had eagerly soaked up the
water. Such is the perverse nature of sleeping bags. Looking all around
the tent, his worst fears were confirmed
– water was coming in all around, and soon everything would be
thoroughly wet.
Thankfully, the senior cadet staff continued to monitor and report on
the younger cadets' status, so the commander was able to concentrate on
overcoming his own problem. He quickly pulled a towel out of his pack,
reasoning that he could mop up the leaks and dispose of the water
outside. All he had to do was continue mopping for a little while and
then the rain would let up. This strategy worked for all of 37 seconds,
as it soon became apparent that the water was gaining inexorably. Not
only that, now the top of the tent was dripping, adding to the rising
water on the ground. A great puddle was now forming inside the tent,
quite similar to the great puddles already created on the ground outside
the tent. Now, how could this be???
To figure out the problem, we have to go back to when everyone was
setting up camp. As mentioned above, setting up camp in the dark
presented challenges we had never met during previous encampments. In
this case, the commander smugly had laid down a ground sheet before
erecting his tent, as the ground was a bit damp from an earlier
shower. He reasoned that this would keep the tent's interior nice and
dry, while others might experience a bit of dampness. Since the ground
sheet was very large, doubling it so it would be just a bit smaller than
the outer edges of the tent seemed like a good idea
– a perfect application of a very clever plan.
However, the darkness foiled this intent. When erecting the tent on the
ground sheet, the ground sheet appeared to be too small because the tent
was off center. Thoughtlessly, the commander opened up the ground sheet
to its full measure, which left one to two feet of it protruding beyond
the edge of the tent all around. Now we begin to see why the interior of
the commander’s tent later began to resemble Lake Gladewater. The heavy
rain that ran down the sides of the tent was diverted inwards, rather
than outwards from the tent floor. The commander’s clever plan to keep
out that slight bit of dampness almost ended up needing a water rescue.
To make matters worse, when he initially began moping up, he would
simply hold the sopping-wet towel out the door and wring it out
– so the water ran right back on to the ground sheet. Finally,
there was an epiphany; in fact, the light was so bright when the idea
came to him that it could have been a bolt of lightning. The water had
to be wrung out of the towel beyond the edge of the ground sheet. There
finally came a time when it became obvious that the water was coming
into the tent faster than it could be mopped up.
The cadets were all warm and dry, so it remained for him to save
himself. It was time to abandon ship, so the commander grabbed his pack,
the one blanket that appeared to be dry and his camera and headed for
his car. Remember, the weather forecast was for heavy rain during the
night followed by a pretty severe cold snap. Being wet and cold was a
sure way to become a cold-weather casualty, so avoidance created its own
justification. On the way to the car, the commander was informed that
our female chaperone had vacated the camper because of the high winds
and gone up to the house for the remainder of the night. A slight turn
to the left led to the camper instead of the car, so thus he embraced a
successful Plan B. The remainder of the night (it was 0430 by now),
spent in the camper, was taken up by trying to dry out. Reveille was
supposed to be 0700 but, because of the storm, it was delayed until
0800. In spite of the weather, we successfully accomplished all the
training scheduled for the weekend.

NOTE
–
This quiet cadet chat by the campfire belies their commander's frantic
labors of the previous night. At rear left, covered by a green tarp, is
the life-saving camper in which the author spent the latter part of the
night, trying to dry and un-chill himself. On the make-shift clothes
line, his sleeping bag and bedding hang in an optimistic attempt at
restoring them to their previously useful condition. If Abraham Maslow's
Hierarchy of Needs ever needed testing for validation, they proved
totally accurate on this occasion. As the author wrote in a message to
me after the event, "As for the 'adventure photos,' all of that activity
took place during the storm, when I was in survival mode. The last thing
on my mind was photographs.
This one is from the morning after." – Editor.
Lessons learned
– If a ground sheet is to be used, find out beforehand how to
place it so as to be slightly smaller than the tent floor. Also, dig the
six to eight inch trench all around the tent to carry off rainwater in
the event of rain. The tent should also be waterproof or waterproofed if
time has degraded the coating. (And never put up a tent on flat
terrain. Find a nice grade, so you won't wind up standing in water.
Editor.) The incredible part of this experience it that the
commander really knew better
– the lessons learned during this weekend had been learned years
ago. Yet, for some unknown reason, they were ignored. It is doubtful
that this lesson will ever need to be re-learned.
Gladewater Foul Weather FTX, 14-16 December
GLADEWATER, TX –
On the weekend of 14-16 December, 2007, the Gladewater Corsairs
Composite Squadron, Group III, Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol held a
search and rescue Field Training Exercise (FTX). Although the weather
report promised poor and unpleasant conditions, we had planned to go
“rain or shine.” Many of the search and rescue missions assigned to
Civil Air Patrol take place during bad weather. Therefore, it is
necessary to develop techniques for accomplishing our mission regardless
of weather conditions.
The squadron arrived at the training area at 7:00 PM on Friday evening
and set up camp. Cadets proceeded with their evening meals and arranged
for CQ for the remainder of the night. A large canopy was set-up so as
to provide a dry place in case it was needed for a Radio Operator’s
class that was to be held on Saturday.
There was a terrible storm on Friday night, with high winds and very
heavy rain. The cadets managed to stay warm and dry throughout the storm
and even secured the canopy that was in danger of blowing away. One
member suffered a good soaking but was able to recover and continue with
the weekend. On Saturday morning, the cadets fell out for PT, led by
Cadet Major Stephen Mouton. Cadet Mouton is currently attending the
University of Arkansas and is also a member of the AFROTC unit there.
After their exercise and run, the cadets made breakfast and prepared for
their training day. We ran L-Per sorties all that morning, with various
cadets taking turns at operating the L-Per, navigating and leading the
ground team. The local electrical interference seemed to be worse than
usual, perhaps because of the storm. Happily, we had just completed a
sortie successfully when it was lunchtime.
1.
2.
3.
[1] Friday Night Meal, L/R, Cadet Major Stephen Mouton, Cadet
Chief Master Sergeant Jarrod Alexander, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant
Andrew Alexander (back), Cadet Basic Bradley Jamison, Cadet Basic
Rebekah Alexander, and Cadet Airman Austin Cheatham. [2] Morning
Warm-up, L/R, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Jarrod Alexander, Cadet Basic
Bradley Jamison, and Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Andrew Alexander.
[3] Morning PT, All.
Lt Parks presented the Radio Operator’s course after lunch and, as
everyone completed the course and passed the test, they will now be
receiving their Radio Operator Authorization (ROA) cards. We continued
on with additional tracking sorties until suppertime, after which Lt
Alexander offered Moral Leadership. The remainder of the evening was
taken up by planning CQ and free time until lights out.
Again, Sunday morning reveille was at 0800. Some of the members had
trouble sleeping because of the cold, but they did pretty well
overall. It was 27 degrees when we got up that morning but the day
warmed up quickly. Ordinarily, on Sunday we have air rifle competition,
but our NRA instructor couldn't attend this exercise. After breakfast
and a good warm-up at the campfire, we continued our training until
lunch time. After lunch, we broke camp, packed up, cleaned up our area,
put out the fire, and departed.
4.
5.
6.
7.
[4] Awaiting First Sortie, Cadet Airman Austin Cheatham, Cadet
Chief Master Sergeant Andrew Alexander, Cadet Basic Rebekah Alexander,
Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Jarrod Alexander, and a visitor. [5]
Taking First Bearing, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Andrew Alexander, and
Cadet Major Stephen Mouton (in rear). [6] Taking Bearing On Road,
Cadet Basic Rebekah Alexander, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Andrew
Alexander. [7] Improvised Litter, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant
Jarrod Alexander, Cadet Airman Austin Cheatham, Cadet Basic Bradley
Jamison, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Andrew Alexander, and a visitor.
This training was probably the best our squadron has experienced since
beginning our Ground Team training. The cadet staff's performance during
the storm was truly outstanding. They immediately checked the younger
cadets to make certain they were warm and dry, even though they
themselves were getting pretty wet with the effort. As the storm went
on, they continued monitoring the cadets to make sure there were no
problems. Securing the awning in the wind was also very difficult, but
they persisted and got it done. Their outstanding leadership as they
took care of the younger cadets before themselves was very impressive.
As for the Ground Team training itself, the cadets demonstrated a new
level of professionalism in their search efforts. Obviously, we have
been training in this same area for quite some time, and one might
expect them to get bored with the process. On the contrary, they show no
signs of being bored and, in fact, since the tracking process is so very
difficult on this property, they get even more determined to find the
target. We saw how atmospheric conditions and ambient electrical
interference influence the search as well. Most important of all,
they've begun to show a new level of professionalism in dealing with the
tracking problems. In the past, they would simply “follow the needle”
without any further thought, but now they are becoming more
analytical. They've started to recognize the different types of
indications that an L-Per can present, depending on local interference
due to power lines and fence lines
–
and factor that into their decision-making. That is the point
– they are now engaging is decision-making, not simple blind
needle-following. As a result, they experience fewer false leads and
unnecessary treks. It is very rewarding to watch them grow in
self-confidence, leadership and professional skills.
Attending the weekend training were Capt Charles Mouton, 1st Lt Harold
Parks, 2d Lt Farrell Alexander, Cadet Major Stephen Mouton, Cadet Chief
Master Sergeant Andrew Alexander, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Jarrod
Alexander, Cadet Airman Austin Cheatham, Cadet Basic Rebekah Alexander,
and Cadet Basic Bradley Jamison
The Squadron in the News, 16 December

GLADEWATER, TX – On Sunday, 16 December, the Longview News-Journal
carried a small item crediting the squadron for providing the color
guard for the Christmas Parade. It is always nice to be recognized by
the local paper, no matter how small, and it sure makes a difference to
the cadets, after all their hard work!
(1st Lt Harold Parks, Commander)
|
|
Gregg County CS |
A Fund-raising and Recruiting Mission, 1 December
LONGVIEW, TX – One table, two table cloths, a
box full of pamphlets, five dedicated cadets and a bell were all
that we needed to have a successful community service/recruiting day
at the local Wal-Mart. The day started at 0830 Saturday, 1 December
2007, as C/SMSgt Caroline Morton, C/MSgt Andrew Shea, C/TSgt Kayla
Cassel, C/SrA Austin Hollinshead, and C/Amn Desiree Taylor set up a
table next to the Salvation Army Kettle, outside the local Wal-Mart.
The squadron PAO, 2d Lt Tracy Hollinshead, who met us in front of
the store when she brought her son Austin over, stayed to support
us, but we had done our homework and were well prepared for our
community service day. As a result, she just stood back and watched
us go to it, and took some wonderful photos, too.
Planning takes quite a bit of doing as well. C/TSgt Kayla Cassel had
designed a great sign on her computer, and we wanted to display it
on the front of the recruiting table. Since she is a frequent
visitor at her public library, and the Hallsville Library assistants
know her well, they were more than willing to let her use their
laminating machine to finish off the sign.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
[1]-[2] C/SrA Austin Hollinshead rings the Salvation Army
bell, Danny Harvey helps daughter Abbie make a donation, and C/Amn
Desiree Taylor watches from the background. [3] C/SMSgt
Caroline Morton and C/SMSgt Andrew Shea assist C/SrA Austin
Hollinshead with his uniform. [4] C/SrA Austin Hollinshead,
C/SMSgt Andrew Shea, C/SMSgt Caroline Morton and C/TSgt Kayla Cassel
are ready for visitors, as C/Amn Desiree Taylor rings the Salvation
Army bell [5] C/TSgt Kayla Cassel hangs the sign she made
with help from the Hallsville Library. [6] C/SMSgt Andrew "McGuiver"
Shea helps a thankful Wal-Mart customer load and secure a Christmas
bicycle in the trunk of her car.
We knew this job wouldn't be easy unless we were willing to serve,
so we had talked about this during our planning sessions. This was a
good thing, because we were all set to help out. C/SMSgt Andrew Shea
assisted an appreciative Wal-Mart customer load a bicycle she had
bought for a Christmas present into the trunk of her car. The
customer had nothing with which to secure the bicycle, but Cdt Shea
noticed some jumper cables in the back of the trunk. He used the
cables to hold the bicycle and creatively adapted the cable pinchers
to anchor the cables to the trunk latch. We now call Cdt Shea
“MacGyver.”
Throughout the day, we talked with many people, including 3-year-old
Abbie and her father Danny Harvey, as they left a donation in the
Salvation Army Kettle. Many shoppers took an interest in the Civil
Air Patrol program, including former cadets and veterans from
different branches of the military. Many shared their stories and
testimonies of their experience in Civil Air Patrol and Military
service. And they were very nice to us.
We worked right through the morning until 12 noon, when volunteers
from other organizations came for their shift with The Kettle.
What did we accomplish on this day? We didn't just help raise money
for a great cause and successfully recruited for our squadron. We
also took back with us some valuable people skills, and learned how
to share information with others. It was easy, really. All we needed
was wanting to help others.
(C/MSgt Caroline Morton)
|
|
Irving CS
 |
Honoring the Flag on
Veterans' Day. 11 November
DFW
NATIONAL CEMETERY, TX – The Irving Composite
Squadron, Group III, Texas Wing was invited to help take down and fold
the hundreds of flags flying at the DFW National Cemetery on November
11, 2007. A gray cast descended upon the gathering, as the day
lengthened into sunset. As the self-appointed photographer, I took
several shots in between helping fold the flags. Lt Col Dietrich
Whisennand, Capt Joe Davila, 1st Lt Mazie Williams, C/Lt Col Matthew
Whisennand and C/Amn Shannon Williams participated in the event. At
their request, we taught several bystanders how to fold the flags
properly and with reverence.
1.
2.
3.
4.
[1] The Marine Burial Honors Detachment is formed. At the end of
the ceremony, they will discharge three ceremonial volleys of rifle
fire, at the detachment leader's command. [2]-[3] 1st Lt Mazie
Williams and C/Amn Shannon Williams hurry to take part in the flag
lowering and folding detail. [4] A detachment of local Army JROTC
cadets is formed, ready to pay their respects.
The
now-disbanded Redbird CS (most of whose members are now members of the
Irving CS) started raising and lowering the flags there in 2004, a duty
they discharged regularly every year. Since they are now gone, the
organizers invited us to help. That's how we came to raise the flags
last 4th of July, when Capt Felipe Gomez also participated. An unknown
CAP family that happened to be at the Veterans' Day event came to us
offering their help, so we taught them how to correctly fold the
American flag.
5.
6.
7.
8.
[5] On special occasions, all flagpoles at the DFW Veterans'
Cemetery fly the National Colors. [6] (L-R) Capt Joe Davila and
Lt Col Dietrich Whisennand folded numerous flags, one by one, with
deliberate and measured ceremonial respect. [7] There were many,
many flags to take down and fold. [8] (L-R) Capt Joe Davila and
C/Lt Col Matthew Whisennand fold another flag.
Photo #8
summarizes the spirit of the day. There is a balance between the two CAP
members, one a cadet, the other one a senior member –
the older generation guiding a young member in the ways of tradition and
respect. In the background, there is a balance between the two flags
that fly capriciously in the wind, one to the left, the other one to the
right (as if simultaneously remembering the past and looking towards the
future), and the empty flagpole centered between them, with a lose
lanyard laying on the ground – taking its rest after
having done its duty. The flag folders themselves show an
expression of intensity, concentration and dedication, as they proceed
with their assigned task, oblivious to the camera. Each flag stands for
the honors rendered by a grateful Nation to the countless service men
and women who have helped preserve our way of life, paying the ultimate
price so that our freedoms and moral principles might live on for future
generations.
(Lt Col
Cynthia S. Whisennand) |
|
Kittinger Phantom SS
 |
Cadet Michael Moody Leads WMU Training for Group III (South), 1
December
AUSTIN,
TX –
On Saturday, 1 December, at the
Seton Healthcare Network Learning Center, Kittinger Phantom and
Apollo Squadron personnel attended special training on Wing
Management Utilities (WMU). Cadet Michael Moody, who recently gained
certification in WMU, conducted the training.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
[1] Capt John Benavides and Cdt Justin Benavides, both
members of Apollo CS, and 1st Lt Ferril Ford, Kittinger Phantom SS.
[2] 1st Lt Cheri Fischler and C/CMSgt Michael Moody, of
Apollo CS, and Capt Steve Barclay, Kttinger Phantom SS. [3]
(L-R) 1st Lt Ferril Ford, C/CMSgt Michael Moody, Capt Leonard Laws
(Apollo CS), Capt Steve Barclay, Lt Col Gordie White (Legislative SS
Commander), Maj Dan Williams (Kittinger Phantom SS Cdr), 1st Lt
Thomas Fowler (Kittinger Phantom SS), 2d Lt Juanita Londenberg (Kittinger
Phantom SS), 1st Lt Joe Chasnoff (Kittinger Phantom SS), Cdt Justin
Benavides and Capt John Benavides. [4] C/CMsgt Michael Moody,
1st Lt Cheri Fischler, Capt Leonard Laws, Lt Col Gordie White, Capt
Steve Barclay, and 1st Lt Thomas Fowler. [5] Lt Col Gordie
White and Capt Steve Barclay. [6] Maj Dan Williams, 1st Lt
Thomas Fowler and 2d Lt Juanita Londenberg. [7] Maj Dan
Williams and C/CMSgt Michael Moody. (Photos: 2d Lt Fred West)
As
described in the eServices CAP Knowledgebase, “WMU provides CAP
members with a tool to maintain information required for CAP
operational missions. It is an on-line tool intended to provide
individual members with the ability to examine and update personal
and pilot information and to provide unit/wing/region staff with
tools to provide certifications and specialty qualifications.”
WMU
flight release functions support upload to WMIRS. In addition, WMU
represent a set of forms and utilities to assist in the automation
of tasks associated with CAP Operations and Emergency Services.
(2d Lt Richard Hacker) |
|
Mesquite Blacksheep CS
 |
Squadron Banquet,
3 December
MESQUITE,
TX – The Mesquite Metro
Airport’s FBO building in Mesquite saw a gathering of
squadron members for an evening of celebration. After the
colors were presented and Lt Col Jack Birchum, Squadron
Moral Leadership Officer, had pronounced the invocation, C/CMSgt
Brittany Stelting read a heart-felt statement honoring all
POWs. Lt Col Mike Eberle then promoted Matt Phoenix to Cadet
Airman Basic and Kasee Niskern to Cadet Staff Sergeant. C/2d
Lt Mitchell Graham was also recognized as Cadet Flight
Commander, a step required before he could earn his next
higher rank.
C/2d Lt Graham presented the
following cadets with their respective awards:
-
Female Cadet of the Year –
C/SSgt Kasee Niskern
-
Male Cadet of the Year – C/CMSgt
Andrew Smith
-
Female Cadet Rookie of the
Year – C/Amn Caroline Stelting
-
Male Cadet Rookie of the
Year - C/A1C Jeremy Banks
-
Best Uniform – C/MSgt
Matthew Garcia.
C/2d Lt Mitchell Graham was also
awarded a Best Squadron Spirit certificate by 2d Lt J.M.
Coffman, because of “his enthusiasm and dedication to the
cadet program.” C/CMSgt Brittany Stelting received the Air
Force award from 2d Lt Jerry Barron for “most achievement
accomplished above and beyond what is expected of a cadet.”
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
[1] Cadets gather at their dinner table to end
another year. [2] C/CMSgt Brittany Stelting
recognizes POWs during her speech noting the "Missing Man
Table" beside her. She would later be presented the Air
Force Association award. [3] 1st Lt J.M. Coffman
presents the Female Cadet of the Year Award to C/SSgt Kasee
Niskern. [4] 1st Lt J.M. Coffman presents the Male
Cadet of the Year Award to C/CMSgt Andrew Smith. [5]
C/Amn Caroline Stelting, at left, will later be awarded the
Cadet Female Rookie of the Year. She stands with her sister,
C/CMSgt Brittany Stelting.
On behalf of all the cadets, 2d
Lt Barron presented 1st Lt Coffman a gift certificate to
ride in an Air Force AT-6 training plane, as a show of
thanks for Coffman’s work with the cadets throughout the
year.
Lt Col Eberle then presented the
senior member awards:
-
Female Senior Member of the
Year – 1st Lt Opal McKinney
-
Male Senior Member of the
Year – 1st Lt Kelly Castillo
-
Senior Member Rookie of the
Year – 2d Lt Jerry Barron.
McKinney has been an active
presence with the cadets, assisting with several events,
including bivouacs, encampments, honor guard academy,
parades, Wings Over Houston, and many others. Castillo was
recognized for his involvement as the squadron’s Public
Affairs Officer, which included steady participation in the
Group III Newsletter, several article submissions to local
newspapers, Wings Over Texas magazine, and the national
Volunteer magazine. Barron quickly excelled in learning
various ground and aircrew skills while working with the
cadets, including a Find Award earned earlier in the year.
Nearly a year ago, on 9 January,
the senior members finished renovating their existing office
space at the Mesquite Metro Airport, just in time for the
squadron's Subordinate Unit Inspection (SUI) held in
February, during which the squadron received an overall
rating of Excellent. Of the 17 technical areas inspected, 4
scored Outstanding, 9 scored Excellent and 4 earned a
Successful rating. Also recognized were 2 Benchmark
candidates and 6 Commendable processes.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
[6] 1st Lt J.M. Coffman presents the Cadet Male
Rookie of the Year Award to C/A1C Jeremy Banks. [7]
C/MSgt Matthew Garcia presents the Texas Flag during opening
ceremonies. He would later be awarded the Best Uniform
award. [8] C/2d Lt Mitchell Graham is recognized as
Flight Commander by 1st Lt J.M. Coffman. [9] Lt Col
Mike Eberle presents the Senior Member Rookie of the
Year Award to 2d Lt Jerry Barron. [10] C/2d Lt
Mitchell Graham was awarded the Squadron Spirit Award. 1st
Lt Opal McKinney, In the background, would later be awarded
the Senior Member Female of the Year Award by Lt Col Mike
Eberle, at right.
For the year in review, Lt Col
Eberle noted that Mesquite Blacksheep
flew 21 SAREX/mission sorties
(for a total of 42.5 hours), 30 cadet orientation rides
(24.1 hours), and 3 counterdrug sorties (5.4 hours).
New members joining this year
included SM George Heatherington III and 2d Lt Melissa Long.
Rebecca McKinney transferred from the cadet program to the
senior member side, and will be recognized as a Technical
Flight Officer, since she is not yet 21 years old.
Transferring from the Red Oak Cadet Squadron to the
Mesquite Blacksheep CS was 2d Lt Sara Black. Lt Col Eberle was proud to
say that in 2007 no active senior member had left the
squadron.
He also expressed gratitude to
2d Lt Jerry Barron, 1st Lt J.M. Coffman, and C/SSgt Kasee
Niskern for their involvement with Challenge Air, an annual
event where children with physical or mental disabilities,
or life threatening illnesses can hitch a ride with private
pilots so as to experience the joy of flying in a small
plane. The three members assisted in crowd control as well
as plane marshalling, which was greatly appreciated by the
airport management.
Finally, Lt Col Eberle said,
"I'm sincerely grateful to all senior members, senior
members’ families, cadets, and the cadets’ parents for all
their hard work, without which the squadron would not have
enjoyed such a successful year."
By the way, the meal was delicious, too.
(1st Lt Kelly Castillo)
|
|
Pegasus CS
 |
First Semester Finished, 23 December
LUBBOCK, TX – With
much shock and relief, my first semester of college is in the books. My
first semester in AFROTC is also finished. That is what I'm proudest of
for several reasons. First, my flight, Charlie Flight (aka Charlie
Flight Cliffjumpers), earned both the Honor and Warrior Flight
Awards. This is an accomplishment that is rarely seen and we worked very
hard to earn them. Every member of the flight received the two ribbons
that distinguish those areas. Everyone worked intensively to make sure
that we won both. Overall, as most things in the military, it was a
great team effort.
Personally, I received an Achievement Award, also represented by a
ribbon. It felt great to have my personal work recognized. Not that I'm
a ribbon counter, but by the time I graduate I could have twenty-four of
them, but what matters to me is what I learn here. I think I've made big
steps in progressing through AFROTC, towards commissioning as a Second
Lieutenant, and that's what I lose all my cadet ribbons and get to start
all over again – with real ones.
At the end of the semester we also change our cadet wing commander, who
is one of the cadets in our detachment. I learned a lot from
experiencing what goes on during the ceremony. I look forward to seeing
what bright ideas our new wing commander will bring to the table, to
improve the program. Spring semester should be fun. We also had an open
ranks inspection, which is quite similar to what we do in Civil Air
Patrol. It was not bad at all, since I had my uniform in perfect shape.
1.
2.
3.
[1] (L-R) Cadets Petrosky, Oswalt, Poor, and Rask (who is down in
the center). After winning both Honor and Warrior Flight, we decided to
have a flight party at Main Event, were we battled in Laser Tag. [2]
Some of the members of the now-legendary Charlie Flight Cliffjumpers, in
Laser Tag gear. [3] Just down the road from Camp Swift, where
you'll be at encampment, there used to be a motocross track where I
learned how to ride. This one is a recent shot taken elsewhere, showing
my technique.
Finals were not bad at all. If you attend all classes, take good notes,
and study hard, any test will seem easier. Sleep is also a good weapon
to "win" tests. I dislike the idea of scheduling a final on a Saturday
at noon but, well... welcome to college. The weather was also getting
pretty cold, so that didn't help at all –
except making me walk to and from the test room faster. Did I mention
that I only had three tests to take?
It feels great to be home and be able to relax for a month. I had looked
forward to attending a squadron meeting at Pegasus, but none are
scheduled until after I leave. I was bummed to hear that news. However,
my brother is a member of the color guard, and they are practicing every
weekend to prepare for the competition, so at least I'll get to see
them. Last year I was a color guard member, and we competed at the event
that was held at Camp Mabry. Even though we placed third, we felt we'd
made a great effort and had done our best.
Next semester is going to be more challenging and the weather even
colder. It isn't as mild here as it is in Austin. I will also be in a
new flight, since the flights are restructured each semester.
I am ready.
(C/SSgt Evan Petrosky)
|
|
Tyler CS |
Old American Flags Retired, 13 December
TYLER,
TX – The Capt.
Will Barron Chapter Tyler of the Sons of the American Revolution,
and The Daughters of the American Revolution, Mary Tyler Chapter,
conducted a flag retirement ceremony at the Tyler Memorial Cemetery
in November.
Also
participating were The Boy Scouts of America and The Civil Air
Patrol, both of Tyler. Bagpipe music was provided by Jeff Barnett of
Tyler Fire Department. Guest speaker was Congressman Louie Gohmert
of Tyler.
1.
2.
[1] Pictured, left to right, are 1st Lt. Justin Lee, U.S.
Army; Congressman Louie Gohmert; SAR Flag Retirement Chairman Steve
Lee; DAR Vice Regent Anna Lee, Mary Tyler Chapter DAR; and DAR
member Mrs. Paula Warren. [2] Civil Air Patrol members
(pictured clockwise from lower left) Issac Cedillo, John Shanahan,
Ethan Koen and Caleb Winn. Acting as Color Guard were SAR members
Mike Everheart, Don Majors, Leland Carter, Tom Miller, Tom Copeland
and Bob Davidson. (Photography: unkown)
The
annual event is held to retire old and tattered American flags with
the honored and traditional ceremony prior to cremation. Over 200
flags were collected by the Boy Scouts, SAR, DAR and Civil Air
Patrol. The National Anthem was sung by Mrs. Paula Warren, DAR, with
pledges to the flags provided by Mrs. Anna Marie Lee, DAR.
(TylerPaper.com) |
|