A Matter of Image

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – If you're lucky, you might catch the re-run of "Deo Gratias" (1963) a serio-comic French movie. The premise is both simple and contemporary. A Parisian man loses his job, is at his wits' end, and has no recourse left. Desperate, he enters a small church and prays, "I've been a good man, loved and supported my mother all these years, and she needs me now more than ever. I don't ask for myself, but I can't find a job. What shall I do? Please, give me a sign." The soft and black-velvet silence of the dimly lit church is broken by a tiny, distant sound. "clink... clink... clink..." The man (Georges Lachaunaye) turns and sees a woman just inside the church's entrance murmuring a prayer as she kneels at the statue of a saint and inserts coins into the alms box next to it.

With a broad smile of immense gratitude, Georges thanks the Divine Providence, rises, and leaves the church. He reasons that every church has "fashionable" and "abandoned" saints, so he makes a one-sided deal with his Maker and goes to work on the lesser known and shabbily neglected saints. He targets those sitting patiently and unnoticed on the dark side-altars that flank the nave of many French churches. "Half for you, half for me," is his deal in this matter, with himself as the sole judge of its fairness. He dusts, restores, dresses, polishes and generally makes the saints presentable, as he talks to them in thankful and hushed tones. Daily, he makes the rounds of "his churches" (Paris is full of them), harvesting the alms boxes, meticulously leaving half of all he finds.

Emptying the "side collection" is the weekly job of the sacristan or even the sexton, who do the menial chores but don't run the church. One of them, who keeps a tally of how much he reaps from each box, notices both the extra adornment and glowing presentation of previously unproductive saints, as well as the richer revenue that now flows from them.

Throughout the movie, Georges is seen traveling the side streets of Paris: first on a bicycle, then in a little Citroen "bug," and finally in a shiny Mercedes Benz sedan. As his fortunes rise and he prospers, so does his mode of transportation and dress. The desperate and nearly broken man presented to the viewer on that first scene is now almost a gentleman... whom the French police end up chasing. He eludes persecution and leaves Paris with a smile. He has no worries, now that he knows what to do, as he has a well-proven methodology and Europe awaits him in blissful ignorance of his talent.

I found the movie both funny and touching. It was a victimless crime, in that he only took from the excess revenue, because he had studied the habits of each church and had checked to make sure that the saints he picked received no coins at all, week after week. As he invested in each saint's image, and the coins started pouring in, he took his share from them, leaving the "regulars" untouched. In the process, he emerges as an everyday man assailed by troubles and guilt, finding his peace as he overcomes misfortune, finds something productive to do, and hurts no one.

He had restored the image of the neglected religious statues, making them important again. That's how image works, in all affairs. It isn't so much what someone is, as how that someone is perceived by others.

The PAO is charged with watching over the image of the unit, the wing, and even National Headquarters itself. It is up to the PAO to dress the news about these units in their best possible garb, making them desirable to those who might want to join, become donors, or even make allowances for CAP members that work for them, giving them generous time off for emergency missions.

It is all a matter of image.

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Living Examples of Excellence

Lt. Col. Owen Younger, Commander

Col. Hodgkins, CAP-USAF/CC Retires

Southwest Region Newsletter

From: Max Hays
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2009 11:06 AM
Subject: [texaswingcap] FW: [SWR Wing Command] SWR Newsletter

Please see below.

Col. Joseph Jensen, Southwest Region Commander

Making it Easy to Write Awards - Take 2

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, SWR DPA

How NASA Technology Benefits Us Daily

    GEORGETOWN, Texas – NASA's Spinoff website, at http://ipp.nasa.gov/pd_spinoff.htm, is a service of the NASA IPP, providing NASA's premier annual publication of successful commercial and industrial applications of NASA-sponsored technology.

NASA shows graphically and in detail the results of its involvement in spurring technological innovation, "incubating" advances by sponsoring special programs and developing educational programs, and how its entering into partnership development serves to seed new ideas into American industry.

Do visit this site. You'll enjoy it.

1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, AEO

Hail and Farewell...

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Marc Jordan Ben-Meir

To Follow Different Paths, Yet Stay Friends

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – I never had a pen pal in the sense of corresponding with a friend whom one has never met, and who lives in a far place. Not really. I've had friends who went away and we corresponded for a while, on some infrequent schedule. Eventually, one by one, my friend or I would be derailed by distractions, interests, or cares that forced us to focus more closely on the here and now, and slowly, slippingly, imperceptibly we would drift away. I remember them all. Had they not been good friends in the first place, we wouldn't have corresponded.

That's a unique word, correspond, from the Latin com + respondere, meaning responding (answering) together. In 1413 it was used in the sense of harmony, agreement, and it wasn't until 1644 that it acquired its current meaning of communication by letters. That was until now, because I have a confession to make. Chaplain Marc and I have been pen pals in the deepest sense of the word. We have come in harmony and agreement either right off or after having talked something over. We've spoken on the phone. He has seen my picture, and I his. We have e-mailed back and forth. We have confided in each other. But we have never touched, nor seen each other.

He isn't just a pen pal, though. He is my friend. I never thought this would happen with someone I've never seen, but I'm smart enough to know when something happens. Especially to me. He and I have a common background of military service, and we both studied psychology. He is a deeply religious though tolerant man, and so am I, probably in lesser measure. Let's say that he takes his religious seriously on a light note, and I take my seriousness lightly on a religious note. If that makes sense to you.

And that's the best part of having a friend. I know, in my heart, that Chaplain Marc knows what I mean.

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Simple Emergencies

What does the term “Emergency Responder” mean to you? I’m sure most of you will immediately think of first responders, emergency lights, accidents and bad weather. But what comes to mind when someone says “simple emergency”? In Texas, we often have occasion to experience “simple emergencies.” Think of how often your power has gone out (for no apparent reason) for some time. And what about a hail storm that caused you or your neighbors some damage? What about driving down a dark road at night and your vehicle decided to grace you with a flat tire? These are examples of what I call a “simple emergency,” and we need to be prepared for them as much as we are for “The Big One”. This is a responsibility shared by both Cadets and Senior Members.

Start with your own home. Perform a risk assessment for various scenarios. Gather your family around you and play the “what if” game. What if the power goes out? What if the house catches fire? What if a tornado is coming? What do we need to be prepared for? At a minimum, we'll need food, water, and some way to communicate with others. List events you would consider to be an emergency. Ultimately, we are responsible for our family’s health and safety. If we are not prepared to care for ourselves in an emergency, no one else might be available to do it for us.

You may have a plan for your immediate family’s safety, but what about your neighbors'? Do you know them? Are there people with special needs in your neighborhood that, unlike you, might not be as prepared to survive a simple emergency? Take this into account when you make your emergency plan. The process can get complex in a hurry. Luckily, there are resources readily available that can help you with your planning.

CERT – Community Emergency Response Team programs are offered in many communities. You can read more about it at http://www.citizencorps.gov/cert/ . Check with your city or county emergency services manager to see if there is a CERT program you can join. They provide very good training in preparing you for just these emergencies. They are often free, and you usually receive a backpack-full of emergency response equipment that you can put to use in your home and neighborhood.

IS-22 – Are You Ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness. This online FEMA course is very thorough and will help you get yourself and your family prepared. You can download the material from http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is22.asp for free. Once you complete the course, take the online exam and receive a certificate, attesting to your new knowledge.

I could discuss preparedness at great length. However, it is now up to you to take the next step. Be sure to share your efforts with your squadron safety officer, and see if you can start a preparedness program in your squadron.

Do help others in your squadron become “Emergency Responders,” so they'll be prepared for the “simple emergencies,” as you will be.

2nd Lt. Roger Courtney Sr., Communications Officer

Texas Wing Radio Reprogramming Status

Lt. Col. Steve Haney, Texas Wing Director of Communications

Emergency Response Training

This link http://www.teex.org/search.cfm?pageid=search&area=teex  will take you to the TEEX webpage – the state agency responsible for all ground operations. They do monthly training at their Disaster City facility, and need volunteers to be victims, assist with logistics, set up victims with moulage injuries, and other essential tasks. They train in a number of areas, including dog teams.

If you have ground team expertise, I strongly urge you to put on your best BDUs and go train with the TEEX professionals.

Check out the website above. TEEX has a fantastic volunteer appreciation program.

Lt. Col. Brooks Cima, Texas Wing Director of Emergency Services

Special Training Opportunity for Texas CAP Members

It is a fact that NIMS training is mandatory, but the ICS 300 and ICS 400 courses cannot be taken online. They must be taken in person at an approved location, taught by certified instructors. Many TXWG members who would otherwise be able to take these courses, at times cannot because of the cost, since they are taught in few places, mostly the large cities in Texas.

This is a Great Deal!

ICS training is available through the Governor's Division of Emergency Management. This program will reimburse CAP members for travel and living expenses incurred to attend mission-related training.

• Schedules and program details are available at www.preparingtexas.org

• Visit http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/ftp/dem/training/08trainingcal.pdf and read page 9 for information regarding reimbursement.

If in doubt, or if you have any other questions, please contact the Group III Emergency Services Officer.

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

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

How Long is your URL?

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – When the Internet was created, the first item on the agenda was to figure out how computers would be able to reach each other easily by using simple names (the alternative was to use something like "124.320.245," an octal address that is not very friendly). In the Dark Ages of 1972, the Network Information Center (NIC) was created, and management of these issues was turned over to the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) was involved in this from the beginning, since it was considered a matter of national security. Eventually the whole operation became a business and was handed over to the highest bidder. Then came 1992, and the creation of the Internet Network Information Center (InterNIC), the God of Domains. 

That's when the flood gates were opened and enterprising people grabbed all the short names they could, such as ford.com, gm.com, itt.com and so on, by merely registering them with InterNIC. You get the idea. In a very short time, a few people stood to make a great deal of money by selling these registered domain names (URLs) to the major companies who thought they had time because they owned their own names. The courts found in favor of the upstart buyers, and faulted the company management for not having been quick enough to register them -- they should have realized how important they would become, and registered them first. Nothing that a little money can't fix, of course.

It is now nearly impossible to get a 2- or 3-letter URL (forget 1-letter altogether); 4- and 5-letter names are in short supply, and it's hard to get a 6-letter name too (considered the longest of the "easily remembered" names).

So what do you say? Do you want to register a URL? Forget about moving.[anything], dentist.[anything], doctor.[anything] and so on. You can get doctorsmith only as a .biz, .us, or .ws, but smithdoctor is available under any dot-extension (beware: it's probably worthless). You might hit on some abbreviation that is still available, such as drjohnsmith, but you can't get this one as a .com.

Do you think you can beat the game by getting one coined from your name? It'd better not be johnsmith, bobbrown, michaeljones, or jamesthomas. Many other combinations have been taken, and fewer will be left as the population grows and the Internet takes over the planet.

Some longer names are available, especially if you don't mind getting one that is 15 characters long, but there's a problem with these long URLs. Since many people are poor spellers, the longer the name, the more likely they'll be to misspell your URL and fail to reach your website. And that, believe me, is bad business.

Mark Gibbs, a well-known name in the PC world, has some timely advice on this subject. I hope you enjoy it.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, ITO

The Trouble With Wikis

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – In an ideal world, where truth always prevails, honesty is the norm, and everyone trusts everyone else, no one could be suspected of ill-doing. But this doesn't describe our world today... or at any other time. Humanity's solution to this dilemma has been quite simple: if you lie, you lose your reputation. That worked well for a number of centuries, until people were able to think up huge financial schemes that fleeced thousands, even millions. Given enough profit, they were willing to overlook their socially impoverished image, as they enjoyed their riches. And, given enough wealth, they hoped to be able to reassemble their tarnished image.

But this cost money to people, so besides criminal prosecution, the penalty was upped to losing one's credit, too, enough to dissuade the petty thieves but not the truly greedy. Witness the recent Ponzi schemes, cannibalistic bank mergers, and the undoing of several brokerage houses previously considered impregnable.

Nevertheless, on a personal level, most people are honest. They also tend to specialize in an area. So the idea of creating a forum where experts would be allowed to contribute their knowledge appealed to Ward Cunningham, who created the first wiki in 1994 – and posted it in 1995. In Hawaiian, wiki means "quick." His and those of a number of followers did relatively well, until the most famous wiki, Wikipedia, launched in January 2001.

Funny name, Wikipedia, but not to the management at Encyclopaedia Britannica and others, whose profits have been severely eroded by the existence of this handy, free, online tool. Big Business has adopted the wiki concept as well, finding it very useful for collaborative work and creativity. But not without its perils.

Dallas resident James E. Gaskin, a Network World staff writer, makes an excellent case for wikis, and suggests some useful tools  (mostly free) for their management and enjoyment.

I hope you have a good read.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, ITO

Twitter 101

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – There is a lot of twittering about Twitter, as there is about Facebook, MySpace, and other social networking spaces. Those who have come late to the e-world can find them daunting, mostly because they throw us all into a big pile, and class distinctions and status tend to vanish. Basically, the newbie CAP cadet is on the same footing as the newbie seasoned staff officer.

But it goes even deeper than that. The medium breaks down the psychological barriers spanning the CAP rank structure, and the nimble will leave the slow-poke in the dust. There will be the occasional :p as well, for a little visual tongue exercise. For some of us who think of gray as something preferable to bald, it can be surprising, frustrating, and (depending on the size of your ego) even humiliating.

Funny thing, though. It isn't the same as e-mailing. The average cadet who sends a staff officer an e-mail is likely to write it as a texting exercise, terse in its extreme brevity, bordering on rudeness (or just plain brash). Facebook, on the other hand, associates your photo to your message, and this fosters better manners. The bottom line is that the medium transcends age, experience, and status. It levels the field and lets everyone play. And people will always be people.

Lt. Col. Dale Robinson, of the Eglin Composite Squadron in Florida Wing is a contributor to the PAO Forum. He usually signs himself just Dale or Dale Robinson, or even not at all, mostly in a light vein. But on occasion he gets serious and tacks his CAP grade to the message. I'm indebted to him for the link to this interesting primer on Twitter... which he signed with Name & Grade, so we'd better pay attention. :p

Got another interesting link on "Twitter for Business," supplied by former Group III Commander Pat Benoit, a good judge in these matters.

And right in the heels of that came the news that Twitter grew 131% in March.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, ITO

The Art of Sharing

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – This is a short little article, but it can keep you busy for a long time. Honest.

My friend Maj. Paul S. Cianciolo, National Capital Wing/PA, has been quick to embrace social networking and Internet communications quite effectively. Notable is the blog Above the Capital from NatCap's command staff, hosted by the wing's website. If you take a look at the wing website, at first glance it won't be much different from most good CAP sites. It is definitely neat, and has the latest news items right on the front page, in abbreviated format, with one or a few "teaser" lines ended by a ...(read more) link (except that the one at left is just masquerading as one). If you do follow one of those links, you'll immediately notice a difference: at the bottom of the full article there will be a "SHARE" button.

This is what it will look like   

Or you could pick a simpler one

Either one will do the same thing.  Please notice also all the little buttons that pop up when you hover over one of them and click on More...). Were you to use them all, that day you probably wouldn't have any time left for yourself. Go ahead and try them here; the buttons above are live and doing their thing.

This nifty add-on to your website is a snap to insert. Go to the Add This website, register (free sign-in), then click on the "Get the Button" top menu choice; that will open a "Create Your Button" page. Each little image will have a blank round button picker to the left. Select the image that best suits you and click on the gray Get Your Button Code button to have the program generate the necessary HTML code. When the code displays, copy and paste it in where you want it (with your web page displayed in "code view," of course).

But this article is only about the buttons; the Add This website also offers Analytics and a great forum to help you get started. Ask a question and the members will pounce on you with all kinds of answers.

Anyway, going back to Above the Capital, notice the difference in appearance (this one is neater, younger, more intriguing). Also, the excellent use of graphics and multimedia.

Make a note of the CAP YouTube Vlog, and the many links to interesting and useful sites, including U.S. Air Force Live. Yes, the Air Force is no longer stodgy.

Thanks, Paul. I needed this.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, ITO

Capt. Vanessa Smith, PDO
 tx438pdo@yahoo.com 

From Tyler Composite Squadron, Take Two...

TYLER, Texas – Last month, after a long absence of cadet bylines emerging from the Tyler Composite Squadron, all of us got a nice treat from Cadet Sarah Fitzgerald. She had an exciting story to tell, and narrated it well. Judging by my previous experience, I thought it would be quite a while before another cadet byline might come out of the squadron.

Not so. Early in April, I received an e-mail, subject, "Here's another one," just like that. So I got to read about the squadron's Honor Guard, thanks to the literary efforts of C/CMSgt Jesse Carr. Home schooled, and from the comments I've heard as well as what I've noticed, a fine example of courtesy and attention to duty and detail, he is into basketball big time. He isn't very tall (it would be an asset for a hoopster), but he has the energy and agility to acquit himself well. "Where do you play?" I asked him. It turns out that the Lighthouse Christian Academy has a Phys Ed program for home-schooled students, and he plays there regularly.

"The coach is my dad," he volunteered, and then told me that he was one of six brothers and sisters. A big family. He likes the Civil Air Patrol because it gives him the opportunity to help others in time of need. To prepare himself, he has qualified as a Ground Team Member 1, 2 and 3 (he can't wait to turn 18 so he can be a Ground Team Leader too); and he also qualified as Urban Direction Finding, Mission Radio Operator and Flight Line Marshaller.

Eager to improve his chances of admission to a good college, he is taking History and Office Computing courses at the local community college. He likes to read, and speaks well. Not just a fine cadet, but a fine person too.

And ... surprise. Just when I thought I was done introducing this cadet, another article came my way, and this one says it all. I'm sure Cadet Carr and I will become well acquainted – as I'm sure that you, the reader, will benefit from it. Do take the time to read fine narrative of his, right below in this Group III PA Section.

When I wrote this, I thought I was done. Did you think that too? (Wait! There's more!) Well, there is more. Just making the deadline, in came a surprisingly candid narrative about a First Flight; cadet Carr's, or course. Treat yourself. This is the first time that a first-time cadet writer has submitted three articles as a first submission, all published in the same issue. (Two of them in the staff section, too.)

It is my pleasure to welcome C/CMSgt Jesse Carr to the growing ranks of the Group III Cadet PAO Program. I look forward to a lot more writing from this young man.

Capt Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

Military Officers Association of America, Tyler Chapter, 10 April

TYLER, Texas – I find it hard to put into words our thoughts and feelings last 10 April 2009, as we came out of the Women’s Building in Tyler, after what had been an astounding experience for me. Lt. Col. Terry Howlett, USAF (Ret), the first vice-president of the Tyler Rose Capital Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), a retired Air Force Lt. Col and currently a CAP Lt. Col. (as well as a former Tyler Composite Squadron Commander), had invited C/1st Lt. John Shanahan, C/1st Lt. Isaac Niedrauer, and me to attend their bi-monthly banquet. We had been asked to speak about the Civil Air Patrol, and in exchange we would be allowed to ask for scholarship funds for Texas Wing and Squadron activities.

We arrived at the banquet about forty-five minutes early, in time to set up a table where we would have some pamphlets, and be asking for donations. We had been honored by having the opportunity to meet and greet many of the members – retired military officers – as they entered the banquet hall. We discussed CAP with them, and answered their questions about the program and ourselves.

The members we greeted and met were Air Force Colonels, Army Colonels, Navy Captains, and many others. These retired officers had been one step away from flag rank: General or Admiral. That alone, to me, was an overwhelming experience. Being in the presence of these men and women, who have sacrificed and done so much for me, for us, for our country, was utterly amazing.

We were privileged to sit at one of the head tables with retired Army Colonel John Knaus and his lovely wife Beverly. The couple were very nice and funny, putting us at ease, and made our dinner an extraordinarily pleasurable one. After a retired officer gave the invocation and everyone said the pledge of allegiance, we got in line for food. It was delicious. We had ham, turkey and dressing, green beans with bacon, salad, rolls, and – best of all – dessert: vanilla strawberry cake and raspberry cobbler. Let’s just say it required seconds.

While we were eating, we got to know Col. and Mrs. Knaus, talking about what high schools we attend, where we would like to go to college, and what we do in CAP. After everyone was about done eating, Lt. Col. Howlett made some meeting announcements, gave a brief history of CAP, and then introduced us one by one, so we could speak a little on what CAP is about.

Before the banquet, we had discussed what we would say and came to an agreement: each one would talk briefly about one of the CAP missions. Cdt. Niedrauer went first, giving a brief overview of Cadet Programs and what it has to offer. Then Cdt. Shanahan spoke; being the big ground pounder that he is, and being SARTECH II qualified, naturally he chose to speak about Search and Rescue – what we do, what we can do, and how we do it. Then it was my turn, and I stepped up to the podium.

In those very few seconds leading up to my first words, I became somewhat worried, realizing that I was going to talk about Aerospace Education. The average person would think I’m qualified to speak about the subject, since I have been to glider flight academy and I am in the Civil Air Patrol. But let’s just say that, from my point of view, flying is OK, I’m not a huge fan of it but it’s OK. Frankly, I have always been more of a Cadet Programs and Emergency Services type of guy.

Worry crept in. What could I possibly tell these military officers about Aerospace Education that they didn’t know already? Feeling headed towards the inevitable doom of talking about a subject my audience probably knew better than I did, after clearing my head, I plunged into my presentation. I gave it my best shot. When I was done, Cdt. Niedrauer closed our small talk by giving the members the address to the CAP National website and then we returned to our seats.

1. 2. 3. 4.

[1] Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Terry Howlett introduces Tyler Composite Squadron-SWR-TX-085 members C/1st Lt. John Shanahan, C/1st Lt. Isaac Niedrauer and C/C MSgt. Jesse Carr to Military Officers Association of America members. [2] Squadron cadet leaders field questions and pass out CAP literature to MOAA members. [3] Squadron cadets dine with MOAA members Army Col. John Knaus (Ret) and his charming wife Beverly. [4] Squadron cadets take turns addressing the MOAA members. (Photos: Lt. Col. and Mrs. Terry Howlett)

To our immense pleasure, we soon learned that while we had been speaking they had passed around our donations basket and, wonderfully enough, had filled it to the top. Now it was time for the highlight of the evening. The Association had invited Army Lieutenant Colonel Victor Zillmer to come speak and give a presentation.

Lt. Col. Zillmer is a combat engineer who has 28 years of military service, thirteen active and fifteen reserves. He has been on over twenty deployments and eight combat tours. Before the banquet had started, we had the unbelievable honor of meeting Lt. Col. Zillmer, an occasion I will never forget.

He delivered a presentation on the different operations he has been in charge of, what he has designed, and what he is designing now. During the first portion of his talk, he showed us pictures and videos of command centers he constructed in Kuwait and Iraq. When he had been deployed to Kuwait, his first assignment had been to build a command center at a military base there. One of the funny things he said was that, while he was directing the construction, he and his crew kept receiving top secret equipment that no one had ever seen before, nor knew how it was supposed to be set up.

After completing that command center in about 90 days, he had gone to Iraq to construct two more. Learning how much they cost, and how quickly they could be built, sounded crazy to me. I couldn’t even imagine how it might be possible. After his deployment to Kuwait and Iraq he had been sent to New Orleans to manage a billion-dollar design/building project to get New Orleans to function properly even though most of it is below sea level.

Having already finished building many gates and pumping stations on some of the outfall canals, he showed us slides of what he and his crew are working on, and some of the other things they have already completed. He ended by showing us pictures of their current jobsite, where they are building a new canal, and how they had come up with the design for the canal. Just the pictures and Lt. Col Zillmer explaining what he does were enough to confuse me for the rest of my life. It was a truly great presentation. I learned a lot from it, about what being a combat engineer can entail, and some of the things they have had to do to rebuild New Orleans.

Lt. Col Howlett ended the evening by presenting Lt. Col Zillmer and his wife with two MOAA coffee mugs. After the banquet attendees were dismissed, we thanked Lt. Col. Howlett and the many other officers, said goodbye to the Knauses who had shared their table with us, gathered up our information materials, and left.

The evening had been an amazing experience, eye-opening and rewarding. We had been given the opportunity to meet and talk with people that other young people our age can only dream of meeting. As we drove away, I came to the conclusion that no matter how many times I said thank you, or what I did, it couldn’t possibly make up for what the men and women of our armed services have sacrificed. Thank you, all of you, and especially thank you to the families of the service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We are forever in your debt.

Through CAP, I have had countless opportunities to meet men and women who have made sacrifices for our country, and every time I do it impacts and affects me in different ways. CAP has opened doors for me, and when I leave this program and am no longer a cadet, whether I take anything physically away with me or not, I will always have a more grateful heart towards those serving in the military. I will also have a better understanding of what it takes to be one of those incredible people, willing to lay down their life… so that a stranger might live.

I can feel that understanding developing and growing in my heart, every day. It opens my eyes to things I had never seen or noticed before. Some might say that on that evening of 10 April 2009 we achieved our goal by receiving one hundred and sixty-four dollars in donations, and now the association is holding a special meeting to consider matching that amount. But I believe we achieved far more than our original goal. We were humbled, our eyes were opened, and we walked away with more than just money to go towards activities.

We walked away with a feeling of gratitude and appreciation.

C/CMSgt. Jesse Carr, Tyler Composite Squadron

From Ground Pounder to Soaring Bird, 19 April

TYLER POUNDS AIRPORT, Texas – It was during the Group III Orientation Flights weekend, exactly two years to the day that I had joined CAP and I was finally sitting at the end of the runway, engine roaring. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, and was breathing in and out faster, at shorter intervals. I had waited too long for this moment, and now it was time.

We didn't wait long, though, and the plane now responded to the roar of the engine, gathering speed down the runway on takeoff. It seemed endless. I looked out the window to catch sight of the ground racing away, as objects began to pass by faster and faster, and then… we were up! Soaring over the city of Tyler like a bird in flight, this was my third time in an airplane, my first one in the front seat. On the rear seat, you get a tunnel vision effect, but on the front, the whole world is laid out before you.

The view was spectacular, the scenery amazing. We floated over the suburb areas, the red brick streets clearly different from those paved in concrete. The bricks showed magnificently red, surrounded by beautiful houses and trees that looked colossal. Lt. Col. Terry Howlett, the pilot, remembered that there was a troop send-off at Tyler Rose Stadium for soldiers being deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. He changed the flight path until we were circling directly above them, gathered in the open; we even rocked the wing tips to wave good-bye to them.

Being the experienced pilot that he is, Col. Howlett said he could see the flashes from cameras taking pictures of us. From that point, he gave me the controls and we headed south, towards Lake Palestine. It was astonishing to me, being able to look down at the ground, catch sight of small lakes or ponds, and see their different colors and the algae that was growing in them.

As we flew along, I was entranced by the scenery and sights. I thought, "The things I see have been undoubtedly made by an amazing and wondrous creator." As we maintained our level flight, flying calmly and smoothly along, Col. Howlett pointed out to me the sharp thunderstorm clouds that were rolling in. The clouds looked mysterious, with dark-colored, sharply contrasting streaks running through them.

As we flew over Lake Palestine, I could see the white caps of small waves being formed by the strong winds. I slowly began to realize something as we continued to fly along; I kept looking over to see how long we had been in the air, or how much longer we needed to stay up in the air. I laughed nervously, trying to get rid of the thought – I just wanted to hurry up and land!

I repeatedly told myself, "I'm having fun and enjoying the flight," but no matter what I said, did, or tried to think, my mind always drifted back to the one thought – "Get back on the ground!" Col. Howlett's voice awoke me from the little mind game I was playing, "Bank the plane to the right and head northeast, so we can go in for a landing." Finally! I was starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Realizing that we were on the home stretch, I calmed down and was able to refocus and think. Turning on the downwind leg paralleling the runway reminded me all too much of glider flight academy, and brought back some very good memories. We turned base leg, then final looking right down the runway, and Col. Howlett brought the plane down for a very smooth landing.

The instant I could feel the wheels hit the runway I knew I would be okay, and then… it was over. I had officially completed my first O-Flight, exactly two years after being a CAP cadet, much to my commander's dismay. "When are we getting you done?" he would ask me. For some reason, I kept postponing it.

As we taxied back towards the hangar, Col. Howlett gave me the pedals so I could control the aircraft on the ground. When we got closer he took over, brought us right up by the hangar, and shut down the engine. We finished all the post-flight inspections and exited the aircraft, making sure to leave everything the way it was when we got in. Having my feet on solid ground gave me a feeling of comfort and relief. I had enjoyed the flight tremendously, but at that moment I knew that no matter how hard I tried, begged, or pleaded, flying wouldn't be right for me.

Although airplanes fascinate me, I now know that piloting won't be my choice; I much prefer my ground pounding style. We gave the plane a quick look-over to make sure nothing had been damaged, and then headed inside to double-check that we had completed all the paperwork.

On the following Tuesday, the squadron commander, Capt. Robert "Skip" Smith, presented me with my Certificate of First Flight. Not a single squadron member was shy about making fun of me over it, seeing how long it had taken me to earn it. That O'Ride helped me realize many things. First of all, I don't want to be a pilot. Also, flying can be fun and amazing. And finally, the sights and views that can be seen from the inside of a small airplane are so magnificent and incredible, I don’t see how anyone could not like flying.

However (there is always a however), some of us enjoy the solid, steady ground beneath our feet, the long hot sweaty marches with heavy packs strapped to our backs, and the up-close, hands-on style. (Photos: 1st Lt. Rodney Saucedo)

C/CMSgt Jesse Carr, Tyler Composite Squadron

Am I a 1LT?

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – If you are a CAP member wearing a CAP uniform, you are not a 1LT but a 1st Lt. There is much confusion about how to abbreviate Civil Air Patrol senior member grades, mostly because of a custom perpetuated by the civilian supplier of flight leather patches that use 2LT, 1LT, CPT, MAJ, LTC, COL, and so on for the grades. Notice that these are 3-letter abbreviations which are used by the Army, Air Force and Marine Corps for quick NATO identification. The fly in the ointment is the Navy grade of Captain, also abbreviated CPT, that is the rank equivalent of an Army, Air Force or Marine Corps Colonel.

Civil Air Patrol officers abbreviate their grade without using any periods, as prescribed by CAPR 35-5, 1-3, while the USAF uses periods. These are listed correctly at http://www.group3txwing.org/content/general_library_clip-art_ranks-abbr.htm bottom of the page.

At the very top of the page, however, are the abbreviations listed in the Associated Press Stylebook, the primary guide to be used in all external communications. You will notice that my grade in this short article's byline reads "Capt." with a period, not "Capt" as prescribed by CAPR 35-5. That's because this newsletter is open to the public, and AP Stylebook rules apply.

But you'll never see me sign myself as "CPT" because that would be wrong.

Cadet enlisted rank abbreviations are somewhat more cumbersome if one uses the AP Stylebook. For cadet officer ranks, they are the same as for the senior members, with "Cadet" or "C/" in front of it. For example: "Cadet 1st Lt." or "C/1st Lt." but never "C/1LT" – please.

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

How Should I Write My Signature Block?

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – In the Civil Air Patrol, there are two kinds of signature blocks. One is the "military" for use within CAP or in corresponding with the military (which we're authorized to do). The other is the "civilian" which we use when writing to someone in the community at large.

The "military" signature block has the following elements, shown as they translate into your signature block:

The "civilian" signature block is more relaxed, and avoids abbreviations, as shown below.

If you don't use "U.S. Air Force Auxiliary" it would be OK to move the Branding up, next to Civil Air Patrol. Also, if you have room, you can spell out your job title. Example using "military" style:

Arthur E. Woodgate, Capt, CAP

Director of Public Affairs, Southwest Region

Civil Air Patrol - "Citizens Serving Communities: Above and Beyond"

512.858.1383

512.567.1935 (cell)

editor@group3txwing.org 

Using the correct grade abbreviations and signature block is essential to image. I hope the above is clear.

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

From the Social Networking Trenches

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – The phone rings. "Hello?" "Arthur! This is John Doe! How are you!" I'm about to reply but... "I'll make your day, Arthur! Those college courses you signed up for are just waiting for you!" At this, I cut in firmly, having to talk loudly over the ceaseless barrage of pseudo-cultured words, "I have done nothing of the sort! I don't need any college courses! I don't want any college courses! I have enough degrees already!"

Indeed, "John Doe" (not his real name, not that he would give me his real name anyway) had managed to anger me. It's bad enough that a perfect stranger should feel entitled to call me by my first name and we have never set eyes on each other, but this? Telling me that I requested or signed up for college courses when I know I didn't? "Please remove me from your list," is all that call was worth, and I cut him off.

On the following day, it's "Janet Wright" with the same song and dance. I decline. Not an hour later I get "Sam Rogers" and this one is resourceful. When I tell him he's mistaken, he says, "Please listen," and plays a recording that (not in my voice) says, "Arthur Woodgate." For this one I used my surprise Derringer shot from the hidden brocade vest holster, "That recording and five bucks will get you a latte. Get lost."

Fifteen minutes after Sam, another guy, whom I interrupt in mid-sentence, "Sorry, I'm not buying. This has nothing to do with me. What you're doing is cold-calling, and there's a law against it. Go do something useful."

That was yesterday. Perhaps this scam will leave me alone.

Then, there's the IQ Text scam, via e-mail. "Your friends Alex NN and Pat XX have taken this test already. They scored 231 and 198 and they have invited you to take it too. Would you like to take the test?" What would you do, when your friends invite you? Naturally, I said yes. After a few questions, and I'm batting 1.000, "Please enter your cell phone No." it prompts me. I do. "A message has been sent." Indeed, I have a text message on my cell, offering me a monthly subscription to a service I don't want, at $9.99 per month. There is no "decline" or "exit" button. I have to close the window to exit the program. (What is it doing to my files? I hope Norton is working...)

And don't let's forget the "cyber lotto" scam. You'll be glad to know that I've won US$2,500,000.00 as certified by Mrs. Yvonne Zwanette who has an e-mail address in The Netherlands, with a manager who has an e-mail address in Hong Kong. Really...!

And just minutes ago, the phone interrupted my musings, as I was told to have won four grand prizes awarded to me by a random Internet selector, designed to promote Ford Motor Company and Lufthansa. The voice on the phone had an accent so thick that I had difficulty understanding what I was getting. "What's the catch?" I asked. Naively, he replied, "The catch is that you have to go to downtown Austin and claim your prizes at this address..." "Will you do me a favor?" I cut in. "Yessss Sirrrrr!" he answered instantly, his accent heightened as it dripped with greed. I could almost hear him holding his breath. "I decline the prizes. Give them to someone else." "But, you can't decline the prizes!" he nearly shouted, alarmed. "Is that so? Watch me," and placed the receiver back on its hook.

Still thinking about the e-mail scams, in a detached sort of way, idly I entered "malware" on my online etymology dictionary screen. "No matching terms found." Undeterred, since I knew all about "ware" already, I entered "mal-" and there it was:

mal - prefix meaning "bad, badly, ill," from Fr., from O.Fr. mal "evil, ill, wrong, wrongly," from L. male (adv.) "badly," or malus (adj.) "bad, evil" ... Most Mod.Eng. words with this prefix are 19c. coinages.

Well, folks, malware is a 21c. coinage: "evil goods." A perfect oxymoron, if I ever saw one. Now, I wonder, would that make waremal "goodly evils"?

Capt. Arthur E. Woodgate, Editor

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. Briefings need not be lengthy presentations - a 10 to 20 minute talk (and optional group discussion) is enough.

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 May, should you want to use them at your own squadron.

May Flight Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

May Ground Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

Recurring Reports

Editor

Fruit of Your Generosity

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Nothing is more important to our purpose of the chaplain service than to be cognizant that we are representatives of God and work to facilitate the free exercise of religion. This reason for our existence, along with our personal touch and availability to Airmen and their families is what sets us apart and is such a blessing to people.

At Whiteman the chapel staff seeks personal contact with every Airman. What we needed was an organized effort to ensure we are able to reach our community, so during the month of June we are launching a program that will span people's time at Whiteman.

The concept we created is called EMBRACE Whiteman. Simply put, EMBRACE is our organized effort to ensure a chaplain is involved in the life of every military member. From the very first month an Airmen arrives at Whiteman, until the time they depart, they can be sure a chaplain is a part of their life. The following program description describes our efforts to work smarter and improve our processing of reaching out beyond the chapel walls.

E-mail welcome letters - we obtain the name, rank and unit of assignment for all incoming personnel. The information is then sent to our chaplains, who e-mail those who are in their units a personal welcome letter. Each chaplain crafts his own letter so it contains the elements they personally would like to convey to their troops. All of this by way of introduction before inbound personnel even meet their chaplain.

Meet the chaplain - each first term Airmen center course comes to the Spirit Cafe for chapel orientation, lunch and free time. Our chapel staff attends and mingles with the Airmen. During the orientation briefing the staff is introduced and identifies who is assigned to their units. Our priest is responsible for all Catholics and the remaining chaplains pair up with Airmen in their units. During lunch, chaplains talk to each of their Airmen and invite them to be treated to a meal downtown with that chaplain. The program has been very successful to date with more than 75 percent of the Airmen actually showing up for the meal. Many of them are already involved in parish life and attending worship from this personal contact. I have never seen a program bring more young men and women into the chapel than this single gesture. Young adults today are looking for people willing to invest in their lives. Simply investing an hour or so can make a huge difference in their lives.

Baskets for newcomers - first impressions really do make a lasting impression. Reaching out from the chapel when an individual or family is in transition signals our desire to be a part of their lives. Beginning in June we will team chaplains with a volunteer from the chapel to go once a month and deliver welcome baskets for all new residents on base. We will instruct our teams to politely explain that their intention is not to be intrusive, but to briefly welcome them into our community. When possible, the unit chaplain will be assigned visits to homes of their Airmen. This ensures the family is introduced to the unit chaplain and vise versa.

Reintegration ministry - all military members returning from a remote assignment or deployment are required to stop by and speak to a chaplain. At some time during the 60-to-90 day point of their return the unit chaplain, during a normal unit visit, will very discreetly ask them how things are going at work and home. All of the research done on returning troops indicates that after the initial reunion and readjustment various problems begin to surface. The majority of reunion and reintegration contact takes place within the first few weeks of returning. It is important for us to at least make a personal contact a few months down range to offer a listening ear and encouragement.

Associates program - military personnel and their families have an instinctive desire, perpetuated by our military culture of belonging. While Air Force chapels do not actually receive people into membership like local churches, we can give people the opportunity to have a real sense of belonging in our worship communities. Anyone desiring to associate with a particular worship community indicates their wishes. The pastor then contacts the individual/family and they are introduced at the end of a worship service. A digital photo is taken and placed on our parish bulletin board. This program helps us identify families who desire to be a part of our base chapel and gives our pastors the opportunity to talk with each new family.

Café ministry - our Airman ministry center (Spirit Café), located in the community activities center, is the hub of our young adult ministry. We offer several activities from video games, plasma TV with surround sound, to latte/cappuccino. All activities are provided free-of-charge. In addition, the Café provides wireless Internet access and desktop computers connected to the Internet. The Spirit Café is open to anyone who wants to come, from enlisted to officer, married and single, regardless of religion. Airmen are also able to invite friends already out of high school. The Spirit Café is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Most nights a chaplain can be found hanging around.

E-mail birthday cards - every month our unit chaplains will send e-mail birthday cards to their unit members. Each chaplain has the option of sending an e-mail card or hand delivering actual birthday cards, purchased through their unit funds during unit visitation.

In summary, EMBRACE Whiteman ensures all assigned personnel have personal contact with a chaplain throughout their tour. Our goal is to minister to the people we are called to serve with a face-to-face personal touch type of ministry. Our desire is that every Airman leaving Whiteman will know a chaplain cares about them. I believe we are well on the way to seeing that become a reality.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Steven West, 509th Bomb Wing chaplain

Aviation & more

Safety

US Decorations Rack Builder – All military, auxiliary, and civilian decorations

Addison Change of Command, 7 April

ADDISON, Texas – The Cavanaugh Flight Museum was the place to be on April 7, 2009. This was the site of the Addison Eagles Composite Squadron Change of Command ceremony. The exiting commander, Capt. Greg Thornbury, was to be followed by the new squadron commander, Capt. David Medders.

The ceremony started with a presentation of the colors by the Addison Composite Squadron Honor Guard. Soon after, the Cadet Commander, C/Capt. Brandon Maso, entered bearing the squadron guidon, setting in motion the change of command. For the occasion, the Group III Commander, Lt. Col. Owen Younger, was present as he was preside over the transfer of command.

Re-creating an ancient military ritual, the cadet commander presented the guidon to Capt. Thornbury, who passed it on to Lt. Col. Younger. The latter, in turn, offered it to Capt. Medders, who received it as he said, "Sir, I accept command." These were the only words spoken, since the tradition started in the field of battle, when time was of the essence. Then Capt. Medders turned to the cadet commander and returned the guidon to him. The squadron's chain of command had been briefly broken and immediately restored.

Former Squadron Commander Capt. Greg Thornbury spoke a few end-of-tenure words, thanking everyone in the squadron for their support. The Group III Commander, Lt. Col. Owen Younger, thanked the exiting squadron commander and spoke about initiative – and how Capt. Medders is doing an outstanding job by stepping up to original leadership roles in his new position.

The new squadron commander, Capt. David Medders, expressed his thanks for the trust placed on him and outlined what he plans to accomplish as the new Squadron Commander.

All in all, it was a great ceremony. Squadron members welcomed the new commander, as they look forward to interesting activities, innovative solutions, and new challenges in the squadron's life.

Cadet Patrick Realizes His Dream, 28 March

DALLAS, Texas – Participation in the CAP Cadet program prepares many cadets for a future in the U.S. military, with many of them hoping to enter one of the elite military academies, especially the Air Force Academy. But although some might consider it a natural progression to advance through the CAP cadet ranks and then enter the U.S. Air Force Academy, it’s no less of a surprise when the appointment is actually offered.

“I wondered what I’d done,” said C/2nd Lt. Matthew Patrick, a member of the Dallas Composite Squadron, when describing how he had been told that he was being offered an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. The principal had called him out of one of his classes at Dallas ISD’s Science and Engineering magnet high school (SEM) and taken him to her office – during finals week, no less. Upon entering, he found that his parents were in the office too. “Uh oh..,” he’d thought. 

Although at first he had thought that the situation was serious, the principal asked him casually about his experience at CAP’s Powered Flight Academy, a school Patrick had attended two summers earlier. Then the phone rang and, after a brief conversation, the principal put the caller on speaker phone. “Hello, Matthew,” said a man’s voice on the phone. “Hello…,” he replied. “Do you know who this is?” the voice went on. “No…” said Cadet Patrick. “This is your favorite Congressman. Do you know why I’m calling?”

“I think I have some idea,” replied Cadet Patrick, now expecting to hear bad news. He had originally contacted Congressman Pete Sessions, U.S. Representative for the 32nd Congressional District of Texas, to obtain the required Congressional nomination. Congressman Sessions had agreed and Cadet Patrick had received a letter from the Congressman confirming the promised nomination. So now he thought that this call might mean that he had not been accepted; that the Congressman was making a phone call to soften the blow. The voice on the phone interrupted his thoughts.

“I am calling you,” said the Congressman, “to offer you an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy.” Later, Cadet Patrick’s father, also named Matthew, described the moment, “When he heard this, Matthew went into shock. He didn’t know what to say.”

Once the surprise wore off, the Congressman explained to Cadet Patrick that the appointment was not binding; it was simply an offer. Now, Cadet Patrick would have to accept it or decline it. “But don’t say anything now. I don’t want you to say yes or no right away,” he said, “This is a very big step for you, and it is required that you think about it. When you have made your decision, please call me back.”

1. 2. 3.

[1] Cadet 2nd Lt. Matthew Patrick, celebrating the news that he had been accepted to the Air Force Academy. [2] Cdt. Patrick at the T38 simulator at Sheppard AFB. [3] Cdt. Patrick by a T38, at Sheppard AFB

The conversation had taken place on a Friday. Cadet Patrick admits that it didn’t take much thinking on his part, since he had wanted this all his life. But because it was such a huge commitment, he waited three days before calling the Congressman and formally saying, “Yes Sir, I’m honored to accept the appointment.”

Attending the Academy had been Cadet Patrick’s dream since the 8th grade. It was while doing research on how to best prepare himself so he could submit a qualified application that Patrick had learned about Civil Air Patrol.  He joined that summer and steadily progressed through the ranks, earning his General Billy Mitchell Award in March 2008. But even though he has had a keen eye on the prize, he admits “You can’t really ever expect to get appointed to the Academy. I thought I had a good chance to get in, but I was worried that I wouldn’t. I’m so glad I made it.”

“I’m speechless,” exclaimed Cadet Patrick’s mother, Beverly Patrick. “This is something he has wanted, followed through on, and now has achieved.”

4. 5. 6. 7.

[4] Cdt. Patrick gets the traditional shirt cutting after his first solo flight at Flight Academy. [5] Cdt. Patrick pins rank on a new cadet. [6] Cdt. Patrick leads a group of squadron cadets offering snacks to troops being deployed to the Middle East, for the USO’s Operation Sendoff. [7] Cdt. Patrick at the Jimmy Doolittle Archives & Museum, with other Squadron Cadets. (Photos: 1st Lt. Sue Cathcart)

Cadet Patrick will be one of around 1,400 4th Class Cadets (known as “Doolies”) to enter the USAF Academy this summer, reporting on 25 June. Through attrition, by graduation time, the Academy plans on graduating roughly 1,000 of them.

His preparations are far from over. Now that Cadet Patrick has been accepted to the Academy, he is preparing himself for the effort to come. Daily, he is following a recommended workout schedule to improve his physical strength and endurance. He is also studying Contrails, the AF Academy Book of Knowledge that he will need to know inside and out. And if he can manage it, he plans on getting his private pilot’s license before reporting to the Academy.

What does he have to say to other CAP cadets who have the same dream he did?  “Study hard. Go to Summer Seminar. Apply early.” For Cadet Patrick, now is the time to set a new goal for himself.                                                                                       

(1st Lt. Sue Cathcart)

Dalton Days in Longview, 11 April

LONGVIEW, Texas – On the weekend of 11-12 April 2009, after discontinuing the practice for a while, the City of Longview once again staged its traditional Dalton Days, commemorating the day when the Dalton Brothers Gang held up a bank in the city. This event's remembrance is not only historic but also great fun, as there is general mayhem and shooting up and down the town's streets. The city also held lawnmower races, a great source of amusement throughout the day. The Longview Police Department had approached our squadron, asking whether we would help with parking lot duty. Since a large crowd was expected, our participation would greatly help the police, who anticipated having their hands full with the usual job of guiding and controlling a large number of visitors in downtown Longview. The squadron was quick to take on the suggested duty, as we promised to assist the Police Department by relieving them of parking lot worries.

On Saturday morning, 11 April, cadets gathered at the Gladewater Airport at 0730 for signing-in and a safety briefing, as they prepared to depart for Longview. Of course, since it was early on a Saturday morning and cadets are known for their healthy appetite, the group made a "mandatory" stop at the local McDonald's restaurant on their way over. Arriving at the Fairgrounds at 0900, C/CMSgt. Kayla Cassel and SM Paul Hall went off to find Mrs. Niena Kennedy, the event's volunteer coordinator. Mrs. Kennedy briefed our members on the parking process, giving us souvenir T-shirts, volunteer ID badges, and drink passes good for that day.

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

[1] C/A1C Brown gets ready to work. [2] C/CMSgt. Alexander answers questions. [3] C/AB Lamprey "waiting for business." [4] C/SSgt. Hollinshead and C/Amn. Roach guide traffic. [5] C/A1C Brown shows the way. [6] C/AB Tommy Word observes the traffic as it moves along nicely. (Photos: C/CMSgt. Cassel)

After C/CMSgt. Cassel and SM Hall had briefed the cadets on their duties and safety precautions, and made area assignments, the cadets went to work. Whenever there was a lull during the day, cadets were released for thirty minutes of free time so they could watch the various events and have refreshments. At mid-day, SM Hall saw to it that the cadets got chips, sandwiches and Gatorade for lunch, as well as allotted forty-five minutes to watch the lawnmower races and staged six-shooter gunfights before returning to their duties.

At 1630, C/2nd Lt. Alexander arrived to check out the cadets' progress as well as the event. As he was the one who had been originally contacted concerning the parking lot duty, he met with Mrs. Kennedy and asked her whether she was satisfied with the way the squadron had handled their duties. She was very complimentary about the cadets' hard work and professionalism, and asked if they would be available to help with other events in the future. Cadet Alexander returned with the good news and released the cadets to roam the grounds and eat what they wanted until it was time to return to Gladewater.

Back at Gladewater Airport for their de-brief and relaxation, the cadets told many stories about their experiences during the day. In spite of the long hours on their feet and the hot sun, it was obvious that all had enjoyed the day, stayed hydrated, and though somewhat sunburned, were in good shape. There was much joking about the great sacrifice they had made by giving up their day, but they agreed that it had been worth it.

Some complained about getting up so early on Saturday that they and missed their favorite cartoons on TV.

Participating in the event were: C/AB Jade Lampley, C/AB Tommy Word, C/Amn. Jagur Roach, C/A1C Matt Brown, C/SSgt. Austin Hollinshead, C/CMSgt. Andrew Alexander, C/CMSgt. Kayla Cassel, C/2Lt. Jarrod Alexander and and SM Paul Hall.

(C/CMSgt. Kayla Cassel)

Gusher Days in Gladewater, 18 April

GLADEWATER, Texas – On 18 April 2009, once again, the Gladewater Corsairs Composite Squadron cadets gave up Saturday morning 'toons to be of service to their community. As is our custom, the squadron participated in the annual Gusher Days celebration. The City of Gladewater commemorated the early 1930s, when East Texas discovered oil and brought in many "gushers." It is a great occasion with a parade, contests, many different and delicious foods, and wholesome entertainment. We know all of it well, because we have participated in it for a number of years. Our primary duty is trash patrol, but we help out anywhere else we're needed – from stands and booths set-up at the beginning of the day to take-down as the day ends.

Meeting at 0830 at our usual rallying point – the Gladewater Airport – for sign-ins and safety briefing, the cadets got ready for the day. All were careful to depart by 0915 to the downtown area, as the Pancake Breakfast was about to begin – there’s that healthy cadet appetite again. Following breakfast, the cadets received their various assignments from C/2nd Lt. Alexander and, as they prepared to move out to their duties, the skies opened and the storm started. C/2nd Lt. Alexander moved the cadets back to shelter at the airport, until the storm had passed. While waiting for better weather, the group discussed various squadron activities they would like to see scheduled, especially now that the days are getting longer and school would soon be out. The cadet senior staff also set up a movie and arranged for lunch for the group.

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

[1] Squadron cadets set up the recruiting booth, C/2nd Lt. Alexander, C/SSgt. Hollinshead, C/AB Lampley, C/A1C Brown, C/CMSgt Alexander, and C/AB Word. [2] On patrol, C/Amn. Roach and C/AB Word. [3] Trash collection isn't the most pleasant, but it is necessary: C/A1C Brown, C/AB Lampley, and C/CMSgt. Cassel. [4] Drilling on Main Street, C/Amn Roach, C/SSgt/ Hollinshead, C/AB Lampley, C/A1C Brown, and C/AB Word. [5] C/AB Lampley eating his Hush Puppies. [6] C/CMSgt. Cassel and C/CMSgt. Alexander engaging in their Hush Puppy Bark Off. (Photos: #3, C/Amn. Roach; #6, C/2nd Lt. Alexander; All others, C/CMSgt. Cassel)

After the storm, the cadets went back to town and started working. The first thing on the agenda was setting up a CAP recruiting booth, and it went up in record time. Besides the trash detail, cadets were also charged with signing up contestants for one of the day’s events: a Hush Puppy "Bark Off” eating contest.  While waiting for the Bark Off to start, the cadets formed up and demonstrated military drill for the crowd. Following that, C/CMSgt. Cassel and C/CMSgt. Alexander played a game of washer board – without a winner, as they did not keep score.

At 1730, three of our cadets participated in the Bark Off – C/CMSgt Alexander and C/CMSgt Cassel in the senior division, and C/AB Lampley in the junior division. In round one, Cadet Cassel ate eight hush puppies while Cadet Alexander gulped down nine in the time allotted. Cadet Alexander moved on to round two, and ate seventeen more (a truly impressive performance) to place second in the competition. The prize? A free appetizer at the Texas Road House. After the fun and games, the cadets returned to their trash patrol.

As daylight faded, cadets began to help the vendor’s take down their displays and pack up. At 2100, the cadets took down their recruiting booth and made ready to return to the airport and home. During the de-brief, the cadets were tired but happy. It had been a very long day but they had enjoyed themselves to the fullest, while supporting the community that supports the squadron so well.

Members participating included C/AB Jade Lampley, C/AB Tommy Word, C/Amn. Jagur Roach, C/A1C Matt Brown, C/SSgt. Austin Hollinshead, C/CMSgt. Andrew Alexander, C/CMSgt. Kayla Cassel, C/2nd Lt. Jarrod Alexander, and senior members 2nd Lt. Tracy Hollinshead and SM Paul Hall.

(C/CMSgt Kayla Cassel)

From the Trenches of Academia - Spring Semester 2009

LUBBOCK, Texas – Believe it or not another school year has gone by. I have no idea where it went, though that might have been a function of my having been busier than usual. This semester in Air Force ROTC was packed with action, and it was challenging. Add in academics, and you might wonder when I managed to get some sleep. So here’s the good, the bad, and the awesome of my Texas Tech Spring Semester 2009. 

The academic side of college life went well, but without football games to look forward to every week it tended to drag along. Some highlights were: class cancellations due to severe flooding, severe rain and hail, and severe snow. Yes, snow. Talk about Mother Nature showing off her power. I didn’t complain, though. A break now and then is good. Another factor I had underestimated was the ability of my apartment's fire alarms to go off at one in the morning. When you have to go to PT at 0600 and you are rudely awakened at 0100 for no good reason, you won't be happy. If you are about to go to college, please don’t be the person who does questionable things to make the fire alarm go off. The police will find you, take you away, and you won't like it. I witnessed this a couple of times.

1. 2. 3. 4.

[1] The Lubbock CS cadets practice their formation moves as a flight. [2] The Chaparral building, where the Lubbock Composite Squadron has its home. [3] Close-up of the CAP sign under the Chaparral sign. [4] After their practice, the cadets have improved their close order drill skills. (Photos: C/TSgt. Evan Petrosky)

This semester in Air Force ROTC was Field Training Preparation for me and my fellow cadets who are sophomores. It’s exactly what it sounds like. It consists of going to all three PT sessions each week, besides taking on more responsibility than during the previous semesters. During this session, I was squadron commander, academic officer, and the standardization officer. About every two to three weeks, we rotated positions. The good news is that it’s over. Now I just have to keep in shape for when I go to field training at Maxwell AFB, Alabama.

Also in Air Force ROTC, I was the flight orientation officer, in charge of scheduling orientation flights for our cadets. We used the Amarillo Composite Squadron SWR-TX-353 for the rides. Everyone had a great time. 

To cap it all off, AFROTC won the Commander's Cup for a sixth year over Army ROTC.

It was a great semester and I accomplished a lot. I reached new heights and stayed focused on my goals. Summer will bring its challenges as well, but I feel prepared to take on the obstacles that will come my way. 

(C/TSgt. Evan Petrosky)

SkyWarn Training, 21 March

TEMPLE, Texas – Early on Saturday, 21 March 2009, a small group from Shoemaker Composite Squadron yawned and rubbed their eyes as they prepared to attend the SkyWarn training classes. The day would be packed with weather training offered by the Bell County Office of Emergency Management as well as a special report from Reed Timmer from Discovery Channel's Storm Chasers.

Shoemaker members arrived at the CTC Nursing and Science building at Central Texas College in Killeen, eager and ready to learn. The bleary-eyed cadets and senior members poured out of their vehicles and made their way to the building. We were greeted warmly by some members of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) who were also present, taking advantage of the valuable training. Laid out in front of us was a simple Continental breakfast table – coffee and donuts to keep us awake for the training and tide us over until lunch.

The class started promptly with warning forecaster Gary Woodall (National Weather Service, Ft. Worth) giving us a review of severe weather operations and safety tips. This presentation emphasized thunderstorm formation, severe weather production, and visual clues associated with major storms.

Several weather teams from local news stations gave brief presentations and discussed the technology used in weather spotting. Although the stations had a similar objective, the tone of their delivery was oddly different; it was almost as if they were jeering at their "competition." We decided they were doing it on purpose, just to keep us awake.

1. 2.

[1] Matt Hines assists Gary Woodall with his presentation. [2] Olga Breese explains the technology used in the Waco-Killeen-Temple ABC-Affiliate KXXV-TV News 25 meteorology room.

The humorous display of adversity, on the other hand, did not detract from the instruction; the news people discussed in some detail how each station notifies the public about severe weather. The news teams watch for suspicious activity and, when one is found, dispatch weather spotter teams. Even though the weather stations have trained spotters of their own, they discussed the importance of using the training provided in their efforts to assist the community.

When lunch was served at noon, we eagerly made our way out of our small seats to stretch our legs and have a snack. Our light meal, generously provided by the Community Emergency Response Team, consisted of sausage wraps, crackers, and soft drinks.

Lunch marked the completion of the basic portion of the course. Many attendees left before the advanced classes began, but not the motivated Shoemaker cadets, who now were refreshed and ready to learn.

Gary Woodall kicked off the afternoon session with a presentation on advanced storm concepts. His advanced spotter session focused on severe storm environments, theories of severe weather production, tornado formation, and storm evolutions. We analyzed severe weather patterns and participated in a case study from a recent event.

After a quick break, the second set of presentations began with Reed Timmer – a doctoral candidate at the University of Oklahoma and a Discovery Channel staffer – at the front. Reed illustrated in many ways what not to do when storm-spotting. His presentation was both entertaining and educational, as it covered storm observation and spotter operations in some detail.

As the day came to a close, we were instructed on the many benefits of having a radio operator license. We were also told how to obtain a HAM radio license. People who have had this training were encouraged to call in weather updates to local news stations.

With their aerospace education background, CAP members could relate to this training readily, since it reinforced previous experience. Personally, I know I'll profit from it greatly and recommend it to to all CAP members. These technical short courses, which everyone had expected to be long and boring, were actually fascinating. They left a lasting impression on the CAP members, who now feel better prepared to assist the community.

NOTE: CAP members are not allowed to operate a HAM radio if they're signed into a CAP mission, are wearing a CAP uniform, or identify themselves as CAP members. This link will tell you why. Editor.

(C/Capt Joshua Pravel)