Growing a Garden of Life

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – I've touched on the subject of leadership more than once, writing about both its positive and negative aspects. This time I'll do the same, using concrete examples. Over the past few decades, having become more aware of the practice, the world has decried the use of children and younger teenagers as soldiers of insurgency or war. This, however, is not a new practice. In ancient Greece, the Spartans surrendered their boys at the age of seven, so the state could take charge of them exclusively, building them into effective and fierce foot soldiers. These Spartan child-soldiers were sent to war as soon as they were strong enough (age had nothing to do with it). In Sparta's case, wars were waged mostly for the survival of that city-state, and they were quite successful -- at least for a time. Now, in modern times, we've seen the teen-aged Kamikaze pilots of WWII, the barely teenaged paramilitary zealots of African insurgency, and the pre-pubescent fighters of Afghanistan, Iraq, and Iran.

All Spartan children were "capable" because, if they had any physical defect, they were killed soon after birth. Without a doubt, Sparta was a cruel society. Since in Sparta all boys were given to the state at such an early age, the parents must have suppressed any feeling of affection and hope for their sons, whom they were to lose in seven years any way. However, that was not the case of Imperial Japan, where the Kamikaze pilot program was born out of desperation and as a last-ditch means to overturn total (and inevitable) defeat. Not suspecting their eventual destiny, the parents of the Kamikaze pilots must have lavished their love and hopes on them, until the war and its terrible demands took them away for ever. The same must have been true of the African boys rounded up, whisked away, and trained to kill. And the case of the many children around the world that are still being used to wage war.

This is a fruitless enterprise that in my mind constitutes a veritable Garden of Death. I decry it, but have no way of stopping it.

I grew up in two worlds. Summers I spent in the country, at my maternal grandparents', where I was given free rein and encouraged to try whatever interested me. A grouchy uncle was a poet and writer, a kindly aunt captured marvelous pencil drawings on thick paper, cousins played musical instruments, and model airplanes became my fleeting passion. I tried them all, and then some. I was more alive in those semi-rural, intellectual summer months than the rest of the year in the city. When the summer ended, I returned to the routine of regimented school and the merciless chore of studying silly facts and methods for which I saw no immediate use. Time would eventually reveal to me how important this drudgery had been, but the joy of the summers never left me. It is still a warm and cherished room in the mansion of my heart.

Time also taught me that disciplined studies need not be trying; they can also be stimulating and pleasant. As I matured, learned, and became productive, helping others experience the joy of learning became my guiding star. I particularly like aiding the young find their own voice, thoughts, and unique way of expressing them. Writing is a skill that requires practice, as is the case with a musical instrument. When musicians study a new piece, they speak of "getting it on the fingers" as the point at which they can start bringing the music to life. Why? Simple enough. When the notes have become second nature to the artist, then it is possible to start the process of shaping the sound, the expression, the tempo, all of them qualities that cannot be fully annotated on the musical staff. The Brazilian composer Heitor Villalobos said, "A score is just a piece of paper with a rough guide. Music is what cannot be written down, because it is really in your heart."

It is the same with writing. When the student is struggling to find a word, and isn't sure whether it should be "in the boat" or "on the boat," "in the street" or "on the street," "its" or "it's," that beleaguered scribbler has little time to listen to what is crying to pour out of that mind and heart, begging to be put into words. You could say that often the words get in the way of the thoughts. This is common to all beginning writers, who get so busy with the words that they ignore the thoughts. But when they've got past that hurdle, and the thoughts manage to assume their rightful place and become essential, if the writer has the will and intelligence to articulate them, the words will spring out of nowhere and fall spontaneously into place, creating coherent, meaningful sentences of utter clarity. Thus, the thoughts will come to life, dressed in the right apparel.

When I mentor young writers and see this metamorphosis take place, I know I've given someone the tools with which to grow in stature and spirit. That's when I encourage a greater productive effort, so as to open wider the door of understanding. And that is my great happiness.

Such is my Garden of Life.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor

This World of Ours (Soon to Be Yours)

Lt. Col. Owen Younger, CAP, Commander

National Character and Leadership Symposium

Online Safety Document and Courses

Twin NASA Commanders Might Meet in Space

    HOUSTON -- Two NASA astronaut commanders have perspectives like no others on Twitter -- the views of twin brothers preparing on opposite sides of the world to command both the space shuttle and the International Space Station. The tweeting twins are astronauts Mark and Scott Kelly. Mark is the commander of space shuttle mission STS-134, set to launch in late 2010. Scott is the commander of station Expedition 26, also set to fly in late 2010. If schedules hold, the two may meet in space during their respective commands.

To follow the Kelly twins as they give insights to the world, and to each other, visit their respective Twitter accounts. For Mark: http://twitter.com/shuttlecdrkelly For Scott: http://twitter.com/stationcdrkelly

The brothers are natives of West Orange, N.J., and both are Navy captains. NASA selected them as astronauts in 1996. Mark is a veteran of three space shuttle flights. He served as the pilot on missions STS-108 in 2001 and STS-121 in 2006 and commanded STS-124 in 2008. He has logged 38 days in space on his three flights. Scott is a veteran of two space shuttle flights. He served as the pilot on mission STS-103 in 1999 and commanded STS-118 in 2007. He has logged almost 21 days in space and is currently preparing for a six-month stay aboard the station.

To follow all NASA astronauts currently on Twitter, visit: http://twitter.com/NASA_astronauts

To find out more about the shuttle, station and all of NASA's programs, visit: http://www.nasa.gov

(Taken from a NASA news release.)

 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, CAP, AEO

World's Largest Rocket Competition

GEORGETOWN, Texas – Here's your chance to participate in a mammoth rocketry event, open to all students in 7-12 grades from any school, institute, or accredited home schooling program. Registration is open through November 30.

 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, CAP, AEO

The Shuttle's Successor

GEORGETOWN, Texas – There is some disappointment about the shuttle's replacement, because some think of it as a step backwards, rather than forward. What cannot be argued is that it might cost more than the shuttle. To all appearances, being smaller, it would take a lot less fuel to operate it, and it should be easy to repair. A possible solution is to couple it to a disposable pod that would take any payload needed to enhance or repair the International Space Station. So here it is: the Orion, NASA's replacement to the Space Shuttle. 

1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, CAP, AEO

AEX Program

GEORGETOWN, Texas – It is time to register for the 2009-2010 year. As of Oct. 1st, all squadrons can register for the year. Also, anyone that registered and completed the program last year needs to complete the unit report. All registration and reporting is now online.

Please visit http://capmembers.com/aerospace_education/internal_specific/index.cfm  - While you're there, you'll be able to order the AEX books from the same page. 

1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, CAP, AEO

We are Their Witnesses, 5 September

     TYLER, Texas – During my CAP career, one of the training difficulties I see is getting cadets to wear the CAP uniforms as prescribed in CAPM 39-1, “CAP Uniform Manual.” Getting cadets to hold themselves to the appropriate CAP/military standards is extremely difficult. What is even more discouraging, and harder, is getting cadets to wear their CAP uniform properly out of respect. Teaching this takes commitment, time, and patience.

I recently saw the highly motivating, moving, heart-wrenching yet glorious movie, ‘”Taking Chance” directed by Ross Katz. Starring Kevin bacon, it was based on the journal and personal accounts of Lt. Col. Mike Strobl, USMC Retired.

Based on real-life events, we see how Lt. Col. Strobl volunteers to escort fallen Marine Private First Class Chance Phelps, holding true to the Marine principle of, “when one falls, another one brings him home.” Killed in Iraq, PFC Phelps died as a member of a patrol during his day off, since he was unwilling to let his platoon go out without him. We don’t see this part; the scenes we’re shown take place in the military mortuary.

What really stood out to me was the respect for the uniform and military personnel, whether dead or alive. I was impressed by their great care and responsibility towards PFC Phelps’ uniform, even though they knew it would be a closed-casket funeral… and that no one would ever see it.

The servicemen and women at the military mortuary spent hours upon hours meticulously cleaning and preparing for transport the fallen Marine’s body, uniform, and personal effects.

Watching this movie many times opened my eyes as to why I make it a matter of personal pride to wear my uniform properly. Ever since I first joined CAP, I’ve worn my uniform as prescribed by regulations. I wanted to look good, yes, but I wanted even more to look outstanding to show respect for (and represent) my country. Also, I wanted my fellow cadets to think that I was high-speed because I attempted to hold my uniform to as perfect a standard as I could. But seeing the care, respect, and dedication portrayed in this movie made me realize that there was yet another reason why I should wear my uniform perfectly.

Throughout the entire transport and escort, Lt. Col. Strobl shows true honor, dedication, and undying respect for the body of PFC Phelps. It made no difference to Lt. Col. Strobl that his charge was dead, or that he was a PFC. Lt. Col. Strobl saw him as a fellow marine, a marine that had given his life in the service of our country.

Near the end of the movie, a retired marine tells Lt. Col. Strobl that he is PFC Phelps’ witness now. He then explains, “Without a witness, they just disappear.” After watching that scene and hearing that quote my eyes and mind were opened. I came to realize that I shouldn’t want to wear the uniform properly out of a personal need to look perfect. I really should want to wear it correctly out of respect for them… the fallen and wounded, because as the character in the movie said, “We are their witnesses now, and without a witness they just disappear.”

I came to the conclusion that if I wear the uniform to the best of my ability, and hold myself to the military standards out of respect for the fallen and those serving, people will look up to me, not only because my uniform is in good order but because of the reason why it is in good order.

That is what motivates me to hold myself to the appropriate CAPM 39-1 standard: we are their witnesses. We represent them through us and our actions. Because if there were no one left wearing a military uniform, they would all disappear. No one would remember them, and they would all be forgotten.

Having reached this conclusion, now I see that the hardest task before me is how to teach it, as I try to help other cadets understand my meaning, and the motivation behind it.

I strive every day to pass on my passion and respect for military personnel – fallen, serving and retired. 

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP, Tyler Composite Squadron

Chaplain Marc answers the Call

Group III still has no chaplain, but that is only a temporary inconvenience for your intrepid Newsletter Editor. From a cornucopia of wonderful words of comfort, what seemed to me as an appropriate message to our members caught my eye. I read it a few times, liked it, and sent it to Chaplain Marc. Then I talked with him. He is doing somewhat better, enjoying his family, and sends everyone his blessings.

I had sent him this month's selection, Portraits of courage by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Victor Toney,USAF, 366th Fighter Wing chaplain, who focuses on peace of mind as an essential element of happiness and well-being.

Chaplain Marc, without hesitation, gave it his blessing, "I like this one too!"

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor

Mass Evacuations

FEMA has posted a series of links to after action reviews and lessons learned in the aftermath of massive movements of populations. Here is the link to Emergency Management: Actions to Implement Select Provisions of the Post- Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act -  This testimony was before the House Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response. This statement discusses select issues within the basic elements related to (1) findings from the response to Hurricane Katrina, (2) provisions of the Post-Katrina Act, and (3) specific actions the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have taken to implement these provisions. These comments are based on GAO products issued from February 2006 through November 2008, and selected updates in March 2009.

To read and/or download this document, you need an account at the https://www.llis.dhs.gov/index.do site. Your membership in the Civil Air Patrol will entitle you to it. Once you create your account, if you don't use it for a while, the password will expire.

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

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, CAP, 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.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, 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, CAP, FO

Fun, Free Photo Editing Tools

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – It used to be inexpensive, this business of editing digital photos. But then it started to cost money, and some of the premium packages cost too much for the casual user. But not all is lost.

Dave Johnson, of PC World, has written yet another helpful article, this one on available free photo editing tools. They will not do as much as the full-blown PhotoShop, of course, but they'll let you do most editing tasks.

Actually, most of us only need re-sizing, maybe adjusting color and brilliance, and some light editing such as adding on-photo text, or basic cropping. For those of you who don't need much more than that, and would like some free additional tools, this article might to be just the thing.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

How Much Does a Smartphone Cost?

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – The idea of a hand-held device, always on your person, that can handle voice mail, text messages, and Internet access is highly appealing. Also, it is a very practical personal accessory.

Bottom line? They are useful, but not that cheap. On the other hand, the figures would appear to be for "new customer accounts" as opposed to established customers, who usually get a better deal. Also, the figures include prices from across the country. A round figure of $150.00 would seem to be more on target for Texas customers.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

A Bagful of Free Security Tools

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – PC World magazine is a source of great information and wonderful links. This month, they make available a grab-bag of very useful, free software packages. They run from Secunia PSI, for identifying security leaks and closing the door on them, to RunAlyzer, that is billed as a system speeder-upper and spyware hound with a keen nose for avoiding trouble.

As always, each program is free.

Please visit the Most Popular Introductions of August 2009 page.

I hope at least some of them are useful to you.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

Windows 7 Might Not Be Without Troubles

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – In the early days of computing, an operating system was expected to last for a few years - between 10 and 20, in fact. But those were the standards set by the makers of "big iron," the mainframes of yesteryear. The minicomputer revolution started by Digital Equipment's VAX, running UNIX, challenged that standard, since UNIX evolved rapidly thanks to (1) the adoption of faster, more powerful central processing units (CPUs), and (2) the agility of a large pool of developers, the initial business model of today's "open source."

When the PC entered the market, it was a truly crippled little toy, stuck with an 8-bit CPU that couldn't handle but 512 bytes of addressable memory, and that CPU was useful only in a character-based machine. This worked for a while, until 16-bit CPUs, capable of using 64 kilobytes (KB) of addressable memory, became the new standard and slow, rudimentary graphics became possible. A few more years and 32-bit computing set the rules for a graphics-based operating system and Windows (born under 16-bit computing) came on its own. As CPUs became more powerful, the limiting factor became the CPUs ability to address RAM space, which simply wasn't enough. There is only so much you can do with 4 gigabytes (GB) of addressable memory.

There is no question that computers capable of addressing memory in the terabytes (1 TB = 1024 GB) are best, but implementing this new 64-bit standard, with backwards-compatibility for the vast library of existing 32-bit programs is a challenge. Windows Vista, in its 64-bit version, has attempted this, but many older programs wouldn't run on it, to their owners' considerable dismay. Supposedly, Windows 7 will be the holy warrior that can slay the 32-bit incompatibility dragon.

Not so fast. Andrew Garcia, of eWeek, tells about his experience with an upgrade from Vista to 7.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

Will IE8 Display Your Website Correctly?

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – These days, developing a website is not all that difficult, given how many programs offer visual tools that let you see what your work will look like, without having to actually program the page, that in turn saves you a great deal of time. Ideally, the program you're using will write "standard code" that, by definition, will be eclipsed by other programs adding functionality to the standard. The trouble starts when someone thinks of a better way to do something, or creates a new feature, then implements it all before asking for it to be incorporated into the standard.

Some software vendors wait until the proposed revision to the standard has been approved before fielding it, but others don't. In the latter case, that's when you can get in trouble by having developed your web presence with a not-yet-approved enhancement that never gets added to the standard, either because someone else came up with a better way of doing it or the development committee decided not to accept it for some other reason.

If you want to make sure that your website, intranet, or extranet will display correctly with the much-ballyhooed Internet Explorer 8, either natively or in compatibility mode, take Lance Whitney's advice and check it out. His article, published in the September issue of TechNet Magazine, is excellent. And the Microsoft testing software is free.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

WMIRS's Electronic Flight Release Program, 27 September.

As of 1 Oct 09, the electronic flight release program in WMIRS will go "live" and, as of that date, all flight releases in TXWG will be required to use this system. Attached is a .pdf file with instructions, and I am including some additional instructions below. This is really a very good system, and will help us better track the flying time in the Wing. But each pilot must use some prior planning. And, as usual, there are some "quirks."

• First, the sortie must be entered into WMIRS before the flight. It can be entered up to 24 hours prior. 

  • Either the PIC or the FRO can do this entry. If the pilot does the initial entry, multiple FROs can be designated by holding the Ctrl key down and clicking on each FRO. An email will then be sent to each designated FRO that a sortie is awaiting his/her release.

  • To complete the release, the PIC must then talk with the FRO by phone or in person within 4 hrs of the flight. The FRO must have access to the Internet and WMIRS at the time of the release, ask the appropriate questions, and check off the required check lists. The FRO will then complete the release. 

  • After the flight, the PIC will again call the FRO and give him/her the Hobbs time and starting and ending tachometer readings. The FRO will enter these items and complete the WMIRS entry.

• If the flight is a C mission symbol, the entry page can be accessed directly from the yellow section of the initial WMIRS Menu, labeled Add Sortie. 

• If the flight is an A or B mission symbol, it is a little more complicated to access the entry page, because there is already a mission number established, the monthly A or B mission number. To use an A or B mission symbol, the PIC must be on the WgCC and WgSD approved list (Letter of Xs) found on the TXWG Ops web page. 

• To access the entry page for A or B missions, click on Current Missions/Sorties on the left side menu in WMIRS. Then find the TXWG Monthly A or B Mission and click on the number of air sorties for that mission (4th column from the right). This will bring up a list of all previous sorties for the month.  Go to the bottom of the list, and click on Add. This will give you the entry page. Fill out that page as indicated above, and complete the release and flight as indicated above.

• For now, there is an alternate procedure to be used for manual flight releases on a Form 99. However, this should be the exception, not the rule, and should only be used when no FRO is available who has access to his/her computer. The FRO must still go back and enter the sortie, the release, and the final numbers according to the instructions, just as soon as he has access to a computer.

It is strongly recommended that you read the attached instructions before you try this. If you have any problems, feel free to call me at 832-257-9040, or email me at rand@wt.net .

Lt. Col. Rand Woodward, CAP, Deputy Director of Operations

How to Go Out on a Limb (at the National Conference)
A tale of work done, talent found, and goals reached

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – In June 2004, when I joined Civil Air Patrol as a composite squadron Public Affairs Officer (PAO), I was impressed by how much cadets learned and did, but few wrote about it. This didn’t seem right, so I asked myself, “Why not encourage cadets to tell about what they do, in their own words?” Since then, Texas Wing has seen a steep rise in the number of cadet bylines, published in local newspapers, squadron newsletters, group online news, National News Online, even Volunteer. That was progress, but their articles generally told their personal story in the context of their own squadron or a limited-scope event. Then the opportunity presented itself to put cadet writers to the test in a much wider world.

In the early fall of 2007, on behalf of the U.S. Air Force Familiarization Course (Florida), then-Captain Steven Solomon, Southeast Region Director of Public Affairs, posted a notice on the Public Affairs Officer (PAO) Forum asking for a Cadet PAO capable of reporting that National Cadet Special Activity (NCSA). Up to then, to my knowledge, no NCSA had been reported by a cadet. A phone call to the activity’s assistant director established a relationship that has endured and become a hobby of mine. Soon after our conversation, I was appointed the activity’s webmaster, editor, and PAO (all new positions).

My first task was to give the activity a suitable website. Traditionally, the activity had a good year with maximum participation, followed by one or two years with a smaller student body. Accustomed to this rhythm, after having had a full year, they’d expected that on 2008 fewer cadets would attend. However, soon after the website was posted and advertised ( www.afspc.org ), applications started pouring in. Normally, the activity takes 24 cadets (exceptionally 27 or even more), but on that year National Headquarters received 80 applicants. Selecting only 22 from them (the two C/PAOs counted towards the total) must have been a tough job. That attendance would make it two great years in a row, and that was not a common occurrence.

For the summer of 2008, I had agreed to be the commandant of the PAO/IO School at the Texas Wing Lone Star Emergency Services Academy (LESA). With the Florida assignment in mind, I invited three Texas Wing cadets to take my course. All three did well, and two of them attended and reported the AFSPC-FC (FL) right after LESA had ended. I remained in Austin, Texas, editing and posting their articles and photos on the website. Since then, the most important lesson learned has been that Cdt. PAOs can and will do good work, provided they understand the job, have been properly trained, and have the maturity to do it.

After that success, I continued to mentor Cadet 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson (the third LESA attendee) for a year. At selection time, he competed with one other Cdt. PAO applicant for the 2009 Fla. NCSA, winning out. Unexpectedly, another NCSA, the National Flight Academy at Shawnee, Okla. needed a PAO and, on very short notice, I couldn’t find a qualified senior member who was both available and willing. Nelson agreed to cover that event before going to Fla., that would start less than a week after the NFA was over.

“Really? A Cadet PAO?” had asked the Okla. Wing activity director. I assured him that the cadet could do the job, so the activity accepted the deal, albeit reluctantly. Afterwards, the activity director and wing commander were so pleased with Nelson that they asked him back for 2010. “I hope to be selected for IACE by then,” was the cadet’s reply.

When Texas Wing Cdt. PAOs went national in the summer of 2008, the project proved to be on target. In 2009, the same Fla. NCSA once again had a good year, with 22 cadets (not counting one C/PAO). This constituted three hits in a row, perhaps a record. The staff attributed its success to the website and the cadet articles and photos it contained, later confirmed by an end-of-course cadet questionnaire. Nelson did well in Fla. too, and his work is online at that website.

This proved that intelligent and motivated cadets can write and tell the story well. Earlier this year, Texas Wing started a localized pilot program designed to reward cadet writers. The results have been literally explosive. I found talented writers who had never written until then, but wanted the reward (a CAP Achievement Award for 3 articles published). This was an editor’s dream. I got page after page of adequate writing, with the occasional pearl - several pearls, in fact.

By early August I had made reservations for the 2009 Annual Conference and National Board at San Antonio, and noticed that Texas Wing kept looking for workers to help with the airport shuttle, administration, and many other jobs. I thought, “What a great opportunity to put Cadet PAOs to work!” The Texas Wing commander agreed to it, and the region didn’t object. Both Nelson and Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr – the second one a newcomer but a quick-learner and excellent young writer – accepted the challenge at once.

Thus, in just over a year, Texas Wing Cadet PAOs got to cover three NCSAs and one full-blown Annual Conference and National Board. This summer’s NCSAs belong to Nelson, but Carr made his mark at San Antonio. The latter excelled, revealing his thoughts and feelings, letting the reader share in his experience of the power and glitter he felt when over 600 top CAP members gathered in a National Conference – a far cry from the average squadron meeting.

Trusting their training, potential and enthusiasm, I went out on a limb and turned loose two underage cadets with the vaguest directions, letting them search the story as they found it, experienced it, and understood it. We would meet two or three times daily, and they would report what they’d done. To my delight, they were right on target. After each meeting, I would suggest where they might get some rich pickings, and off they’d go. It was wonderful to see and hear their enthusiasm, admiration, amazement, learning, and personal satisfaction. These feelings come through clearly and vibrantly in their fresh prose, found below. The way they treated the material was their own choice, which I have respected.

In common with most teen-aged writers, they presented their work in the first person singular, just as this introductory article. I didn’t mind, because I wanted them to be their own, with their unique points of view, their likes, dislikes, past and – above all – future. Had I told them exactly what to do, and had they obeyed, I wouldn’t have been doing my job as a mentor. Their training done, I trusted my instincts and let them follow their own instincts to discover the event as they witnessed it.

General George S. Patton said, “Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.”

I like surprises.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, Southwest Region Director of Public Affairs & Director of Organizational Excellence

New and Important Faces, 3-5 September

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – I had never dreamed that this might happen to me. But now it had become fact. I would be attending the 2009 Annual Conference and National Board, my one and only chance as a cadet to participate in – and staff – a National Conference hosted by my wing.

Invited by Maj. Arthur Woodgate, the Southwest Region Director of Public Affairs, I jumped at the opportunity to attend. I would be working as a Cadet PAO, reporting the events and the people participating in them. As soon as I arrived, early Thursday afternoon, I was promptly immersed in the day’s busy schedule. I followed Maj. Woodgate through the intricate maze of hotel conference rooms filled with CAP’s most influential members, many of whom I had the distinct honor of meeting and visiting with.

My first activity was an open-session National Board meeting and elections for vice-commander. This was my first real opportunity to see democracy in action. After two of the candidates had been eliminated, it came down to the remaining two, Col. Russell E. Chazell, the NHQ Chief of Staff, and the incumbent, Brigadier General Reggie Chitwood. After three two-way ties, Brig. Gen. Chitwood finally retained his seat by the slim margin of 35-31.

With the elections running late because of the repeated ballots, as soon as the winner emerged, members quickly recessed to prepare for the evening’s CAP Opening  Reception.

1. 2. 3.

[1] Maj. Gen. Courter opens the general session. [2] Brig. Gen. Reggie Chittwood offers his candidacy to remain the National Vice Commander for another term. [3] Cdts. 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson and Jesse Carr with National Vice Commander Brig. Gen. Reggie Chittwood.

To kick off the weekend, members boarded charter buses and headed some 30 miles outside of San Antonio. The occasion was a Cessna-sponsored cook-off at the Knibbe Ranch, a Texas State historic site.

With many of us dressed in Western style, everyone enjoyed an ample meal of hamburgers, hotdogs, salad, chips and chili, with delicious s’mores to top it all off. After the meal, attendees tightened up their shoes, got their cameras ready, and hit the barn’s dance floor for some old-fashioned line dancing.

As the dancing continued and the night wore on, the crowd began to thin as buses got started on their way back to the hotel. Many guests had to prepare for the following day’s busy schedule.

The feeling of acceptance towards cadets and the understanding of our potential by senior members attending the National Conference astounded me. Never at anytime had I experienced such marvelous respect. Senior officers did not look down on me because I am a cadet; they encouraged me, thanked me, smiled and joked with me.

Before arriving at the conference, many people had told me that I would have the chance to meet many extremely important persons. To me, until then, an important person had been the wing commander, or maybe the region commander or someone from region staff. Within a couple of hours of being at the conference, not only had I meet my wing commander and region commander, but I was also introduced to the national commander, Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter. I was stunned.

But I didn’t just meet Maj. Gen. Courter. I also had the chance to visit with her for a few minutes, discussing what exactly my position as Cadet PAO entailed, and what I thought about the conference up to that moment. What amazed me was how encouraging she was, how interested in what I was doing, and how generous she was in thanking me for volunteering my time.

Cdt. 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr shows his happiness at receiving a notebook computer – the Banquet’s door prize – from Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter. (Photos: Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate)

During the course of the following day, I was introduced to several wing commanders, region commanders, and members of our very distinguished NHQ Staff. I gathered business cards and e-mail addresses.

Having the opportunity to report and attend this conference has opened many doors for me. I have been able to meet several people who had valuable and unique advice for my career path considerations. I have had the pleasure of sitting in on classes taught by Air Force TIs and even the NHQ Director of Public Affairs. In addition to all that, this conference has opened my eyes. Constantly, I was filled with joy and pleasure about being able to sit and talk with senior members, laugh, joke, and express my ideas and opinions. I have never experienced such energy of acceptance from senior members towards cadets at any CAP activity.

I walked away from the conference thoroughly thrilled. I truly had a blast. I got to meet important people, was asked my advice on issues by the National Cadet Advisory Council, and even won a laptop. Yes, a free HP notebook, compliments of NHQ, via a door prize drawing at Saturday night’s banquet.

At the conference, I met and was introduced to so many distinguished and honorable senior members that I cannot even begin to name them all. I was graciously given the opportunity of a lifetime. One that I feel, unfortunately, not all cadets will be able to share, participate in, or experience.

I hope our coverage of the event can give other cadets an idea of how much goes on beyond their squadrons, and even their wings.

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP, Tyler Composite Squadron

An Example of Excellence, 3-5 September

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – On the evening of Thursday, Aug. 3rd, during the 2009 Annual Conference & National Board, I had the pleasure of meeting a current Spaatz cadet, Kate Whitacre. She and her family (also in CAP), had traveled from Indiana to the great state of Texas to attend this national event.

In conversation with her over dinner, I was unaware as to why she and her family had come to San Antonio. I had made the assumption that they had done so for the same reason as most everyone else… However, I was soon to learn that Cadet Col. Kate Whitacre had come to San Antonio to the National Conference for a very special purpose. She was to receive the National Cadet of the Year Award. It just doesn’t get more prestigious than that.

When I found out the real reason, I was astonished. When I had met her, and the times we had visited afterwards, I had talked to her just as I would have talked to any other cadet. And she had never let on that I was having a conversation with the Cadet of the Year.

Saturday morning, after she had been presented her award, I decided I should interview her. After all, I was one of the Cadet Public Affairs Officers for the event, besides, I was interested in her secret to success.

Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter presents the CAP Cadet of the Year trophy to Cadet Col. Kate Whitacre. (Photo: Cdt. 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson)

     In 2001, Cadet Whitacre had joined CAP at age 12. Why had she joined? I had expected an answer along the lines of, “Oh, I like the uniforms,” or “Aerospace,” or “Emergency services.” But her reply caught me by surprise as I heard her say, “I joined wanting to do something bigger than myself, I want to do something more than help myself.”

Cadet Whitacre saw that opportunity in CAP. She saw that our program offered her the chance to serve her community, state, and nation.

She went on to say that of all her achievements in CAP, she was most proud of having earned her Carl A. Spaatz award and having attended International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE).

To close the interview, I asked her whether she had any success tips for cadets, new or old, “Be dedicated to and for excellence,” she remarked. “Get involved and remember that you get out of the program what you put into it.”

Not only is Cadet Whitacre an example of excellence in CAP, she also shows exemplary selfless service as well as outstanding dedication and hard work in her personal life.

Her many accomplishments in CAP range from getting her FAA pilot’s license in 2008 and being the only CAP cadet pilot in Indiana, to participating in four REDCAP missions and having been selected as her squadron’s cadet of the year.

During her many achievements she has maintained academic excellence above and beyond. She is currently enrolled at the Indian Institute of Technology, holds a 3.9596 cumulative grade point average, and is majoring in biomedical engineering with a minor in mathematics. She currently holds a four-year academic engineering degree scholarship, and has been awarded a band scholarship as well.

Her awards cover a wide range of activities. She is a Spaatz cadet, a nationally ranked archer, a championship ice skater, merited a U.S. Naval Academy congressional nomination, and has been the Indiana Tech Band Captain for the 2008-2010 school years.

Near the end of the interview, Mr. Don Rowland, the NHQ Executive Director, stopped by and said “What an amazing person! You truly are inspiring.” For me, that summed it all up, right there. Everything I had been thinking the entire time was said in those few words.

Looking at Cadet Whitacre’s resume leaves me speechless. The things she has done, accomplished, and been a part of are truly life-transforming. All CAP cadets should look up to her and hold her as their role model and example for the future.

Now, my only wish is that we should come at least within reach of her excellence and dedication. She is a true role model and example of honor, dignity, respect, self-discipline, and excellence.

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP, Tyler Composite Squadron

Public Affairs – 2009 Annual Conference and National Board IV

An Interview with Mr. Rob Brewer, 3-5 September

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Established on 31 Dec 1959, the Frank G. Brewer Sr. awards have honored and rewarded the most outstanding aerospace educators in the nation. The awards are presented in four  categories.

Category 1 - Civil Air Patrol Cadet Member,

Category 2 - Civil Air Patrol Senior Member,

Category 3 – Individual or Organization outside of Civil Air Patrol, and

Category 4 - Lifetime Achievement.

Rewarded for their outstanding volunteer service in creating successful aerospace programs for their community, state, and nation, the recipients of the four awards gathered Saturday morning at the 2009 Annual Conference and National Board meeting to receive their plaques from the National Commander, Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter.

The Cadet Member award was presented to Cadet 2nd Lt .Charles M. Hussey Jr. During the last year he put together several aerospace education opportunities for the cadets from his squadron in Tupelo, Mississippi.

The senior member award was presented to Captain Frank E. Merrill. He organized an outreach program for schools in Indiana Wing. The result of his aerospace outreach was the chartering of the Titan Cadet Squadron, one of two school squadrons in the Great Lakes Region.

1. 2. 3.

[1] Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter presents the Frank G. Brewer Lifetime Achievement award to Lt. Col. John J. Lynn, assisted by Mr. Rob Brewer, son of Frank G. Brower Sr. [2]-[3] Mr. Rob Brewer and Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, who interviewed him for this article. (Photos: Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate)

The individual or Organization outside of Civil Air Patrol award was presented to Space Education Initiatives from De Pere, Wisconsin. This organization has been dedicated to getting students interested in science, mathematics and technology through the wonders of space exploration.

Normally, the Lifetime achievement award is not presented yearly, as it is often declared vacant. This year, the accomplishments of Lt. Col. John J. Lynn, spanning more the 50 years’ service in the U.S. Air Force, aerospace industry, and CAP were so remarkable that they could not be ignored.

In presenting the awards to the four recipients, the National Commander, Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter, was assisted by Mr. Rob Brewer, son of the distinguished Frank G. Brewer Sr. After the awards ceremony, I went up to Mr. Brewer, introduced myself, and asked whether he would agree to be interviewed.

I was interested in knowing what it was like to grow up as the son of someone like Frank G. Brewer Sr. “Well, my dad owned his own business, so we traveled a lot,” he said. Had it been difficult, traveling and being away from home? “Not really. We got to see the country and there were many opportunities while on these trips. They were a lot of fun.” Could he remember a favorite trip, or did he have a great memory of one? “First grade,” he laughed.  “We went to Bar Harbor, Maine. That summer was one of the best trips we had.”

“Your father was a great man, very influential and inspiring,” I said, “How do you feel about that?” “It’s amazing to me. I was lucky to grow up with such a man as my father. There were many lessons learned and yes he was truly inspirational.” I could see resurfacing Mr. Brewer’s tears that had been trying to hide themselves after the presentation of the awards. Regaining his composure, he went on to say, “One of the things that really inspired me was that, after all those years and when he retired, he stayed in CAP and remained true and willing to serve the program.”

At this, with gratitude, I shook his hand and thanked him for the time he had granted me, and for having come to the Conference. I thought to myself, “There is a very blessed man, having had someone like Frank G. Brewer Sr. as his father, who inspired him to reach for excellence. Mr. Frank G. Brewer Sr. was truly a role model to look up to.“

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP, Tyler Composite Squadron

Leadership Through Followership, 3-5 September

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – While at the 2009 National Board Conference, I sat in on a class about the techniques of leadership and followership taught by Technical Sgt. Charles McCowan, an Air Force Training Instructor (TI) at Lackland AFB and a serviceman with a distinguished military career. His job is to turn Air Force recruits into Airmen.

During the class, Tech. Sgt. McCowan stressed the importance of “getting personal” with followers. By this he meant reaching a point of comfort where followers will open up to the leader. I know this is not easy; it is hard to draw the line between getting personal yet remaining professional with cadets, maintaining a relationship where the cadets will respect the leader. This is why I was interested in discovering how to achieve that degree of establishing personal trust while still maintaining the fine leader/follower line.

After the seminar, I went up to Tech. Sgt. McCowan and asked him, “How do you get personal to the point where your followers will open up to you, while at the same time keeping the line between leader and follower?”

He replied, “Yes. As a leader, it is important to keep the line. The trick is to find the balance.” As a cadet, I consider this one of the hardest things to accomplish. Finding the balance is not at all easy. Tech. Sgt. McCowan went on to say, “You must remember that your followers will respect you more if those communication gaps are bridged. Their respect for you will grow as they begin to open up to you. The key to success is finding the equilibrium.”

After hearing this, I began to examine what I had learned from his presentation and his answers, and I was troubled. As a member of the staff at many basic encampments, I have seen cadet staff not wanting to get personal with the cadet basics because they felt it would tarnish their image. That is a feeling I have experienced in the past. Most staff members feel that getting personal with the cadet basics causes the latter to no longer “fear” or respect the staff member as much. But there’s a flaw in that reasoning. Actually, by opening that invisible door and bridging the communication gap, the cadets will learn to respect the leader even more.

That “us and them” mindset is one that disturbs me deeply. It speaks of a thought process that is unacceptably elitist, and starts with the cadet leaders feeling themselves to be above those they lead. Yet, in fact, part of our real duties as leaders is to bridge that gap and get personal with those we lead, so that they will feel comfortable with us and our advice, and also will learn to trust us.

This was a great block of instruction. Now, after realizing the nature of the issue, and knowing what the solution to it is, I must find a way to implement the solution. Sitting in on that class not only made me aware of problems I see around me but also revealed to me my own faults, which I’ve resolved to work at changing.

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP, Tyler Composite Squadron

A Dream Come True, 3-5 September

Cdt. 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson, Astronaut Eric Boe, and Cdt. 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The 2009 Annual Conference and National Board held a big surprise for me. Actually, I have never been very fond of space travel. I have always thought it was an amazing thing, and I enjoyed watching movies like Apollo 13 and The Astronaut Farmer. I have even visited the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas more than once. But I have never been able to consider it one of my career options.

Astronaut Eric Boe paid an impromptu visit to the NCAC representatives, talking with them and handing out NASA stick-on Shuttle decals.

However, for former Cadet Col. and National Cadet of the Year recipient Eric Boe, now an Air Force Col., it was a dream, a dream that turned into reality. After having proved himself a capable test and combat pilot, in 2000, Col. Boe was selected to begin pilot training in NASA’s space program. Then, after a distinguished NASA career, he was chosen to be the pilot for the Space Shuttle Endeavour. 

In November 2008, Col. Boe was able to do something that most of us can only dream of: he piloted the Shuttle Endeavour into space and docked it with the International Space Station.

Col. Boe is one of those people that, upon meeting them, all you can do is stand there and smile. I remember riding the escalators to the third floor and noticing him in his orange flight suit, across a long expanse of wall-to-wall carpeting. Cadet 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson and I asked Maj. Woodgate if it would be OK for us to walk over and see him. “Go right ahead,” he said, with a smile.

Astronaut Eric Boe presents his Spaatz Challenge Coin to Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter for having started his career in CAP.

We walked up to Col.  Boe and stopped three or four steps from him. Maj. Woodgate walked past us, introduced himself to him, then turned and introduced us to Col. Boe. It was the perfect time, in the afternoon when most everyone was in a seminar. Col. Boe agreed to have his picture taken with us, and we just couldn’t believe that it was happening to us.

Watching Col. Boe and listening to him was very rewarding. Being able to shake his hand and have our picture taken with someone so distinguished, someone who has done so much for our country was truly a blessing. Col. Boe is the perfect role model for cadets and seniors alike.

Although he has fulfilled one of his lifelong dreams and gone to outer space, he is still pushing hard and going strong. Not only does he want to go back into space, he wants to stay on the space station and work on a new Crew Launch Vehicle and Crew Exploration Vehicle – projects he helped develop during his space program training.

Meeting people at the national conference showed me the many opportunities that CAP cadets can have. I met former cadets who are now involved in law enforcement, astronauts, airplane mechanics like Col. Mary Feik, politicians, scientist, and doctors. It truly made me realize how thankful we, CAP cadets, ought to be – we have a jumpstart on life, and a chance of a lifetime offered to us by the CAP program.

Some might look at Col. Boe’s resume and say, “It’s time to retire!” Yet, Col. Boe continues to serve his community, state, and nation through military service and space exploration. Another one of his dreams is to land on the moon…

Might Col. Boe be the first CAP member on the moon? We shall see! But until then, we will support, admire and respect him. (Photos: Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate)

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP, Tyler Composite Squadron

Representation at Its Best, 3-5 September

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – How can cadets get their ideas resolved? Are cadets really being represented? At the recent 2009 Annual Conference and National Board in San Antonio, Texas, the National Cadet Advisory Council (NCAC) took these commonly asked cadet questions very seriously. The NCAC spent the whole weekend resolving issues, implementing solutions, and answering questions that affect all aspects of CAP cadet organization.

As Cadet Lt. Col. Zachary King – the newly-elected NCAC Chairperson – spoke about the council’s future, his listeners were assured that this year NCAC will accomplish many things.

One of the goals that the council set for itself was producing a video that would help Group/Wing/Region Cadet Advisory Councils get a jump start in the program.

Cadet Col. Kristopher Poskey, the Rocky Mountain Region representative, said, “This would help all lower branches find their roots.” Many groups lack a council simply because they can’t maintain them active long enough."

The video’s goal is to provide educational instruction and guidance on how to develop, run, and maintain an active council. This will include proper council procedures and helpful tips on how to establish it.

The NCAC addressed several cadet-related issues that had been brewing for a time. These concerned leadership topics, chain of command, activities, recruiting, retention, and other subjects. The NCAC is here for cadets, and this NCAC term promises to be unique, given these representatives’ unwavering energy and good judgment.

 At right, the NCAC poses with General Courter and her staff at the 2009 National Conference.

The council is open to questions and suggestions at all times, and encourages all cadets to visit their website at http://www.ncac.us/ and submit their feedback.

Cadet 2nd Lt. Addison Jaynes, CAP, Lakeshore Composite Squadron

Big-Time Brass, 3-5 September
My experience at the 2009 Annual Conference and National Board

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Since it moves around the country, cadets have a slim chance that it will be hosted by their wing, and a still slimmer chance of being able to attend it. I am referring to a meeting of the most prestigious and influential members in the Civil Air Patrol, the Annual Conference and National Board. This is where the action is, and it is the premier networking opportunity at a national level.

When Maj. Arthur Woodgate, the Southwest Region Director of Public Affairs, asked me to attend and report the conference, I accepted gladly and within days was traveling south from Austin on IH-35 headed for an adventure. I could only guess at how exciting it would be, but my imagination fell short of reality.

I arrived in the late afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 2nd, to an imposing downtown San Antonio. The Conference location was within a few blocks of the Alamo, the Tower of the Americas, and the world-famous River Walk. These old and new landmarks would be the setting surrounding the Civil Air Patrol’s most important yearly event. I was about to be immersed into the world of Wing Commanders, Chiefs of Staff, former and present National Commanders, and members of the National Board. In all my life, I’ve never seen so many Colonels in one room. Generals, too. The atmosphere was extremely pleasant and, surprisingly, they seemed very glad to meet me.

Cadets 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson (left) and Jesse Carr met Astronaut Col. Erie Boe, whom they admire. (Photo: Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate)

At the time I wondered, “Why do they make such an effort to talk to us cadets; to visit with us and hear our opinions and ideas?” As the week progressed, and I’d had a chance to meet many of the National Cadet Advisory Council (NCAC) members, the answer became clear. Two years from now, my peers and I could well be cadet commanders at encampments, top instructors in the Cadet NCO and Cadet Officer career progression, and perhaps members of the NCAC itself, charged with making some of the critical decisions and sending suggestions and delegations to CAP’s top leadership. Wisdom and far-sightedness might well be what prompts wing commanders to mentor cadets, starting a few years prior to the cadets’ entering their command phase.

The morning of Thursday, Sept. 3rd, started with a prayer breakfast attended by all chaplains and other members and led by Ch, Col. Whit Woodard, CAP’s Chief of Chaplains. He thanked everyone for being there, and introduced Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter, who expressed her hopes for a productive and effective conference. She thanked everyone for volunteering time, talent and money to fulfill the CAP missions and help the community, state and nation.

Then it was the guest of honor’s turn, U.S. Air Force Chief of Chaplains, Ch, Maj. Gen. Cecil Richardson. He is a dynamic speaker, generous of heart, and full of humor. Somehow, he managed to be both devout and funny. He used personal anecdotes to recall times of great need when prayer had helped him as well as those he had ministered to. He recalled his long career from a small beginning, not as a human triumph but as a road of kindness and hope, traversed in faith. During the breakfast, several chaplains were called upon to say a prayer, bringing diversity to the morning. One of them sang a capella, with a wonderful and rich voice that truly belonged in a big church. It was a warm and accepting occasion, perfect for setting the tone for the work facing those attending the conference.

On Friday, Sept. 4th, Cadet Jesse Carr and I accompanied Maj, Arthur Woodgate as he addressed the NCAC on the importance of promoting Public Affairs training among cadets. “Especially home-schooled cadets have a hard time rising above the prep-school graduates when their applications reach the desk of a Dean of Admissions,” he said. Many NCAC members nodded their assent, some with a wry smile. I had the chance to talk with them for a few minutes, telling them about how important Public Affairs is, and how much it contributes to esprit-de-corps and unit morale. I also stressed the importance of developing good writing skills as a life-long advantage.

During the course of the Conference, new officers were elected to the National Board, awards were presented to Wing Commanders whose wings had a superior performance in the 5 fields critical to Civil Air Patrol’s mission, learning labs abounded, and the National Cadet Advisory Council (NCAC) held elections to replace outgoing cadet officers.

At the banquet, Maj. Gen. Amy Courter presents Cadet Jesse Carr with a brand-new HP notebook computer he won as a door prize.

With all the preliminaries out of the way, the National Board went into action, as the NCAC worked separately. For the next two solid days, attendees would go about their voting and gathering, teaching and learning. With about 600 members present, the Conference was an enormous success. Many members enhanced their professional education in many career fields, especially Public Affairs, Cadet Programs, Leadership, and Drug Demand Reduction. Without a question, networking was at its peak.

Right before lunch, we were afforded a pleasant surprise. Air Force Col. Eric Boe, the Astronaut who was the Shuttle pilot for STS-126, arrived at the conference and we got to meet him. Featured on the front page of the Volunteer (Mar-Apr 09), Col. Boe is a former Spaatz cadet (#648), fighter pilot, and still involved in CAP.

During the afternoon, my co-worker and fellow Cadet Public Affairs Officer Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr and I went to a learning lab on leadership taught by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Charles McCowan. It was time well spent. Sgt. McCowan not only taught the practical theory of leadership, but he also demonstrated what he was speaking about.

He would present a scenario, describe how people were interacting, then show the class exactly what was wrong. Better yet, he would explain to the class how to correct it or not fall into the trap in the first place. His presentation included techniques that worked best to motivate subordinates and instill pride, obedience, and respect, as well as team spirit.

That evening, I had the pleasure of talking with Lt. Col. Johnnetta Mayhew, ten consecutive-year commander of the Civil Air Patrol Honor Guard Academy. After we had talked pleasantly for a few minutes, she said, "I would like to introduce you to a long-time friend of mine." Little did I know that I was about to be introduced to Col. Mary Feik. It was such an honor to be able to meet her; someone who has contributed so much to the Civil Air Patrol and after whom an achievement in the Cadet Program is named. What an eventful day this one was for me.

On Saturday morning, Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr and I got to sleep a little longer and were back at the conference by 7:30 a.m. The Awards Presentation Ceremony was first on the agenda. The National Commander, Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter, presented many awards, including Senior Chaplain of the Year, Senior Member of the Year, Squadron of Distinction, Exceptional Service Awards, Meritorious Service Awards, National Commander’s Commendations, and National Cadet of the Year. After the awards ceremony, Cadet Carr and I split up, as we went to different learning labs (Drug Demand Reduction, Importance of a Public Information Officer to CAP’s Missions, and others).

Cadet Carr and I spent the afternoon working on our articles, processing captured images, and taking a break from the non-stop activity the Conference provided. Our heads were swimming from all we had seen and experienced but the “work break” gave us a rest. After a while, we went back to working the hallways and session rooms.

Soon after, we had returned to the hotel room to change for the evening’s formal dinner. It was very colorful, with the senior members all dressed up, some of the ladies in long dresses, and many officers in mess uniform with miniature medals. We enjoyed a delicious meal, accompanied by fantastic entertainment provided by Texas Wing’s Lt. Col. Paul Salos. The latter used the experience he had gained with the act that won him top-ten in America’s Got Talent, and that evening he let it all out. He sang beautifully, thrilling the audience with his very credible imitation of Frank Sinatra. From a distance, he even looked the part.

The keynote speaker, “our” Col. Eric Boe, former Spaatz Cadet, USAF Fighter Pilot and Shuttle pilot for STS-126 followed. He spoke about his time in CAP and how it had helped him accomplish his life’s dreams. “I owe much to the Civil Air Patrol,” he said. He has a great smile. In appreciation for his early training, he presented Maj. Gen. Amy Courter with his Spaatz Challenge Coin. Then he turned to the audience and thanked us all for our continued service to the community, state and nation. It was very touching.

All too soon, the Texas Wing Color Guard, composed of members from the Pegasus Composite Squadron, retired the Colors and the conference was over. I had loved every minute of it. It gave me a great chance for networking with cadets and senior members, as well as a good look at the higher echelons of the Civil Air Patrol.

(Photos: Cadet 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson, except where noted.)

Cadet 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson, CAP, Apollo Composite Squadron

An interview with Lt. Col. Larry Mattiello, 3-5 September

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – At the 2009 Annual Conference and National Board, I got to interview Lt. Col. Larry Mattiello right after he had received his National Commander’s Commendation from Maj. Gen. Amy S. Courter, CAP’s National Commander, who recognized him for his outstanding achievements and service. I caught up to him halfway out of the conference room and asked if I could have the pleasure of interviewing him. “Go ahead,” he said.

He told me he was the Southwest Region Chief of Staff. “What else, Sir?” I asked. With quiet dignity he answered, “I am the editor for the Sentinel, and an executive of AirSure Limited, which is a major aviation insurance company.” How did he feel about Public Affairs? “It is the best way to tell the CAP story,” he said.

Southwest Region Chief of Staff Lt. Col. Larry Mattiello, Arizona Wing Vice Commander Maj. James Nova, and Cdt. 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson during the interview. (Photos: Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate)

As I was conducting my interview, Maj. James Nova, the National PAO of the Year walked by. Maj. Nova is now the Arizona Wing Vice Commander and he was very upbeat. Lt. Col. Mattiello greeted him and I got to meet him too. Lt. Col. Mattiello congratulated him on his award, and was happy for Southwest Region, since Arizona Wing is in the region.

After Maj. Nova had left, feeling that the interview was going well, I asked, “Which area in the world of Public Affairs would you suggest that I pursue?” He though for a moment, then offered. “I would suggest that you look into the cable news and media, and help ensure that the public has the correct image of aviation, and especially of the Civil Air Patrol.”

I thanked him for his time and he graciously replied, “It has been my pleasure.” Although this was a very short interview, it was the highlight of my day.

Cadet 2nd Lt. Christian Nelson, CAP, Apollo Composite Squadron

Dear Colleagues,

I wanted to let you know that I have posted several updates to www.ncrpao.org. They are listed below:

• The whole website has been re-designed with a different interface. I will complete the migration of content to the new template over the weekend.

• The Mission Information Officer Page has been updated with a New Tool Kit and MIO Handbook http://www.ncrpao.org/mio.htm

• 2009 NCR PAO Academy Materials have been uploaded for your use http://www.ncrpao.org/academy/paoa_2009_06.htm

• Resources Page updated http://www.ncrpao.org/resources.htm

• Presentation on CAP Public Affairs for Cadets uploaded http://www.ncrpao.org/director_presentations.htm

• The July 2009 edition of NCR News has been loaded to the website. http://www.ncrpao.org/ncrnews.htm

• NCR Conference information is available including registration http://www.ncrpao.org/ncr_conf/index.htm

• The "Specials and Features" Webpage has been updated. The 2008 and 2009 Flood Pages Can be accessed at this page. http://www.ncrpao.org/specials.htm

As always your comments are welcome.

Thanks and have a great day.

Al ~

Maj. Al Pabon, Major, CAP, NCR Director of Public Affairs

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

October Flight Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

October Ground Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

Recurring Reports

Editor

Portraits of courage

MOUNTAIN HOME AFB - Idaho -- Courage has many faces. It's not just found on convoy duty, in the cockpit of a jet or behind a 50-caliber gun. According to the dictionary, courage is the "mental or moral strength to persevere and withstand danger, fear or difficulty." Who better fits this description than the spouses and children of our deployed warfighters?

They suffer the difficulty of multiple separations, the fear of a hundred unknowns and countless birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and special days lost to the ages. They get no medals or ribbons. When their loved ones return, a grateful nation receives them but hardly gives a thought to the courageous sacrifices their families have made. And yet, they don't complain. In fact, their support does not wane. Their encouragement does not falter. Their prayers do not cease.

These heroes will never have a parade in their honor, and history will little note their sacrifice. But we know who they are. They are our wives, husbands, children and parents who weep when we leave, unfalteringly support us while we are gone, and embrace us when we return.

Who are these courageous ones? It is the wife who sleeps in an empty bed on a cold night and celebrates her anniversary alone. It is the child whose mom cannot help blow out his birthday candles or a dad not there to marvel at the innocent beauty of his teenage daughter's first homecoming dance.

The strength of our military is ultimately not in bombs and bullets. It's in the absolute certainty that when we go to war our families will unfailingly support us, and when we return they will still love us. Sometimes that love is as simple as a young daughter putting on the flight cap of her father with the anxious anticipation of seeing him again

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Victor Toney, USAF, 366th Fighter Wing chaplain

Aviation & more

Safety

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

Gladewater Cadets Promoted, 8 September

GLADEWATER, Texas – On Sept. 8 2009, two Gladewater Corsairs Composite Squadron cadets were promoted. Cadet Technical Sergeant Austin Hollinshead was promoted to Cadet Master Sergeant and Cadet Senior Airman Preston Pietrzykowski was promoted to Cadet Staff Sergeant.

Each had met all requirements for their respective new grades, including Aerospace Education, Leadership Training, and Physical Training. Both had participated in Character Development discussions and are active in Squadron activities. As each cadet met the Promotion Review Board, their new authorities and responsibilities within the Squadron were discussed at length. Cadet Hollinshead will now take a more active role in planning as well as day-to-day operations within the Cadet Corps. He will become more of a planner than a doer. His presence as a role model for the cadets should and will be positive.

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[1] (L-R) Cdt. Master Sgt Austin Hollinshead, Maj. Gerry Davis, Cdt. Staff Sgt Preston Pietrzykowski, Capt. Harold Parks. [2] Cdt Master Sgt. Austin Hollinshead's parents pin his new rank insignia on his collar. [3] Cdt Staff Sgt. Preston Pietrzykowski's mother and Maj. Gerry Davis pin the new rank on the cadet's collar. (Photo #1, Cdt. 2nd Lt. Kayla Cassel; others, Capt. Harold Parks.)

Cadet Pietrzykowski was briefed on his new role in training and mentoring new cadets. As a newly-minted non-commissioned officer, he will be stepping into a more important leadership role and act on behalf of the newer cadets. He will be their “go to guy" whenever they have any problem. Cadet Pietrzykowski has been assisting the younger cadets informally for some time now, so the new role, though now “official,” will not be totally new to him.

During the promotion ceremony, Cadet Hollinshead's new rank was pinned on him by his mother and father. Cadet Pietrzykowski was pinned by his mother and Major Gerry Davis, the squadron's Deputy Commander for Cadets. Both young men are very deserving of the promotions they have earned. Each is an important part of the Cadet Corps and our squadron, and we are very pleased that they are progressing so well.

(Capt. Harold Parks, CAP)

The Look and Feel of Things to Come, 18 September

GLADEWATER, Texas – "Arthur," wrote Capt. Harold Parks, "I saw the attached in the September issue of my AFA magazine, 'Air Force,' and thought it was odd. Its only an ad, but it looked to me as if the Air Force were touting CAP. Maybe it will interest you."

That was Harold's understatement of the year. His clue did, indeed, interest me, because I'd heard rumors about the 'ARCHER killer solution." Only I hadn't seen anything concrete about it. Armed with the ad's information, I Googled a bit, with some interesting results.

On Sept. 1st, CAP's Alaska Wing ordered 20 EVS3 cameras from FLIR. Extraordinary Vision (EV) technology (see video) analyzes images and videos under a variety of electro-optical standards, enhancing moving objects or activities that are difficult to see under normal lighting. The manufacturer, FLIR Systems Inc., derives its name from the technology it sells, referred to as Electro Optic/Forward Looking Infra Red.

The technology, presented convincingly by the company's images and video, would appear competitive against the ARCHER system, currently deployed in CAP GA-8s. But it turns out that it isn't a clear alternative across the board, because although it is very useful for moving targets, if stationary they are very hard to detect, even for highly experienced operators

CAP plans to purchase over 500 Cessna 182s with glass cockpits and specialized electro-optical equipment. It would appear that at least some will be FLIR cameras.

Versatile and adaptable to many missions, as described in the FLIR Corporation product data sheets, it presents itself as an all-purpose image processor. But what exactly will the equipment do? Here are some very interesting videos. As you view them, notice how moving objects are very easy to detect, whereas stationary objects can be easily missed.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor