Tests of Leadership

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – Barely a year after entering the United States, by then living in Chicago, I got a letter from the Draft Board. It said, "From the President of the United States, greetings" and explained that my "friends and neighbors" had chosen me to report for military duty at Washington, D.C., where I had registered – as required of all green card-carrying immigrants. I did as instructed, got a folder full of forms, got a train ticket entitling me to a private berth with pull-down bed, and in the middle of the night at some unnamed station transferred to another train. Early in the morning, I arrived at Ft. Jackson, S.C.

A clean but ugly olive-green Army bus was waiting, other young men and I were greeted with shouts and peremptory orders (a confusing scene admirably captured in the movie Biloxi Blues), we piled into the bus, and emerged amidst cookie-cutter two-story wooden barracks. Basic training wasn't all that hard, other than being physically demanding. Those who faked the exercises had a hard time later, but since I did as told, I developed very quickly into a strong, alert and athletic young soldier. Since my test scores had been very high and I had applied for Officer Candidate School, I rolled over from Basic Training into Advanced Infantry Training at the same training company, with the same cadre.

For the second course, our platoon sergeant selected me as his assistant, so when he was sent to school on Temporary Duty, I found myself filling his shoes. My fellow soldiers weren't too happy about this, so getting obeyed wasn't easy, but I managed. Then, on the fourth weekend, we got our first break. The first sergeant called me into the orderly room and gave me my 4-day pass, wishing me a good and relaxing long weekend. I thanked him, then said, "Where are the other 43 passes, first sergeant?" "What do you mean, Woodgate?" Here goes nothing, I thought, as I explained, "You know I can't use this pass unless I also get one for every man in my platoon. If there's a single man left behind, I've got to stay with him." I got them all. This may have been the single, most salient reason why I was selected the Outstanding Trainee of the Third Training Regiment (Ft. Jackson had four of them), and became one of four to be distinguished at a post-wide graduation parade with massed flags and formal presentations.

But that wasn't the best part. The five weeks following "the 4-day pass incident" were all downhill for me. Knowing what I had done (news leak out fast in the military), the platoon obeyed my orders without question, and outdid the other three platoons with ease. "My" soldiers learned better, I kept easing up on them as they responded with excellence, and we got along fine. This was my first real leadership test, and I had measured up.

The years have passed and many other leadership tests have come my way. They have all involved risk of one sort or another. When they involved others, I've always opted for the resolution that yielded the greatest benefit for the latter, and especially their safety. In the world of Military Intelligence, human intelligence practitioners weigh carefully the safety of friendly troops against the cost of avoiding all risk. In most cases, the latter choice only postpones the issue and often encourages the opponent to heightened and more dangerous activity, including rash and total annihilation of all participants, friend and foe alike.

Unfortunately, as has been proven since time immemorial, human conflict has invariably resulted in some sort of loss. And total losses have increased steadily through the ages, until reaching the monumental carnage of WWII, the most devastating ever. The period following that dark chapter in human behavior has been the least costly in terms of human life, and we're still living it.

Not all risk, though, involves human life. Enlightened military leaders, those who learned to use wisely the advice of their military analysts, usually came out the winners. But not all leaders are enlightened. Good leaders choose their time and place in which to take action, while others merely hope for the best. Historically, that kind of hope has seldom been rewarded.

Ideally, some day all this will pass, individual need to follow the rules and strive for excellence will prevail, and we'll learn to rely on each other and prosper in harmony.

I don't intend to live for ever, but the rest of my life I'll live at the service of my conscience.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor

Letter from Harry Shannon

Mandatory ORM Training

NASA's Mission Science Website

     ROUND ROCK, Texas – NASA has created a new website designed specifically for teenagers who are interested in space exploration and aerospace education. THE Journal commented that the new site is "potentially taking school science projects to a new level."

Through this NASA site, teenage students will also have the opportunity to conduct experiments with NASA scientists, get a unique view of current research designed to advance space exploration, and gain a better knowledge of the universe. In addition, it provides social networking possibilities, links to special science contests, and information on college research programs and space-related summer internships. As if that weren't enough, visitors would have access to NASA images, videos, animation, and podcasts.

Please visit http://missionscience.nasa.gov/ and start your adventure of knowledge and hands-on possibilities.

New Issue of the Air & Space Power Journal

The Air & Space Power Journal's Winter edition has been posted at http://www.airpower.au.af.mil/

 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, CAP, AEO

AE Outreach at Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron, 7 February

AUSTIN-BERGSTROM INT'L AIRPORT, Texas – As the Group III Aerospace Education Officer, I was quite pleased when Maj. Jim Rodriguez, commander of the Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron, invited me to help the squadron with their Tiger Scout training day. He asked that I bring along Cadet 2nd Lt. Michael Moody and the practice Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) from the Apollo Composite Squadron. He also requested that I invite Cadet Staff Sgt. Micah Strauss to accompany us for the day.

What a day it was! On that Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010, the Apollo cadets and I really enjoyed watching how Maj. Rodriguez and S.M. Evans taught the Tiger Scouts about map reading, route planning, and – the eagerly awaited big event of their day – a tour of the squadron's plane. These were Tiger Scouts, boys around age 7, and I had expected them to be less attentive, more boisterous, perhaps even mischievous. None of that. They were a model class.

1. 2. 3. 4.

[1] S.M. Evans, a member of the Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron, explains the controls of a CAP Cessna to the Tiger Scouts. [2] Maj. Jim Rodriguez, commander of the Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron, with his son, as the latter waits his turn to experience the CAP plane's cockpit. [3] The Tiger Scouts soon understood Cadet 2nd Lt. Michael Moody's explanation of how the Elper detector is used to capture the signal emitted by an activated ELT. Their parents are intrigued by the technique. [4] Cadet Moody and Cadet Staff Sgt. Micah Strauss check out the Elper.

The Tiger Scouts' parents were also there, but they had little to do other than watch what was going on. Occasionally, a little boy would run excitedly to his parent to get something he wanted, then hurry back to the class, ready for more.

While four of the Tiger Scouts toured the plane – both inside and out – the other four braved the cold on the tarmac where we taught them to hunt for the pesky ELT of a presumably downed plane. Cadet Moody had hidden the practice ELT not too far, but far enough to make finding it a challenge for a 7 year old.

5. 6. 7.

[5] A lucky Tiger Cub gets to locate an ELT. Eventually, all of them took their turn. [6] Cadet 2nd Lt. Michael Moody prepares a compressed-air rocket for launching, to the Tiger Scouts' delight. [7] Armed with their own rockets, the Tiger Scouts prepare for a mass hand-launch. (Photos: 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen)

When we took our turn at mentoring them, somewhat hampered by the uncomfortable weather, I was taken by surprise by the high level of comprehension that these wonderful young people exhibited. Their attention span, too, was admirable.

After we had given each Tiger Scout a High Powered Paper Air Rocket and a Foam Goddard Rocket, Cadets Moody and Strauss demonstrated how they were launched. Right after, the Tiger Scouts were allowed to launch their own. Of course, all rockets were shot at a horizontal target and not directly into the air, since we were on Austin-Bergstrom International Airport property.

To end a great day, each Tiger Scout took home his two rockets, with big smiles all around. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable day.

 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, CAP, Group III AEO

Aerospace News

NASA to explore private space flight

Suspected Asteroid Collision Leaves Trailing Debris

NASA Plans Manned Missions To Mars

NASA Extends Cassini's Tour of Saturn, Continuing International Cooperation for World Class Science

Quasar Pair Captured in Galaxy Collision

NASA and GM Create Cutting Edge Robotic Technology

Pluto's White, Dark-Orange and Charcoal-Black Terrain Captured by NASA's Hubble

Launch of NASA's Shuttle Endeavour Sparks Early Monday Sunrise

Orbiting Space Shuttle Astronauts Answer Questions from Students Nationwide

NASA Successfully Launches a New Eye on the Sun

NASA: Robots 'essential' to Endeavour mission's success

NASA: Robotic arm attaches addition to space station

NASA's WISE Mission Releases Medley of First Images

NASA's Chandra Reveals Origin of Key Cosmic Explosions

Will there be a replacement after the Shuttle Program ends?

DARPA advances LC3 quadruped robot program

Space Shuttle Endeavour Crew Returns to Earth after Delivering the Last Major U.S. Portion of the International Space Station

Flyfire: mini-helicopters create futuristic 3D display

NASA releases new details of commercial crew program

New NASA Web Page Sheds Light on Science of a Warming World

What makes CAP worth the effort?

TYLER, Texas – Every day I can't help but wonder, "Is it worth it?" And every day I can answer, “Yes, it is." And here is why.

Every day, our youth are bombarded with negative stories, corruption in every level of society, anger and hate in every direction, what are they to do? The Civil Air Patrol has a profound impact on cadets, who are representative of our youth. They are truly our future and what they learn today will be returned to us in full in the future. That scares me, when I see what they are learning every day from their acquaintances, schools, television, radio, famous people and sometimes places we wish didn't exist.

Capt. Robert 'Skip' Smith Awards the Chuck Yeager award to Capt. Dick Gilmore during one aTyler Composite Squadron's awards ceremony. (Photo: 1st Lt. Rodrigo Saucedo)

At CAP, we have an opportunity to make a positive difference and help guide one cadet at a time. We start with Core Values, add the cadet program, encampments, special activities... and we have much more to offer. We also teach them communications, emergency services, aerospace education, and they can also learn from senior members who have many years' practical experience that they can share with cadets.

As CAP members, it is our duty to live up to the Core Values and share our experience with our youth, who are the leaders of tomorrow. We can make a positive difference in each and every life by simply sharing stories of our own life, including the mistakes we made and how we corrected them. Cadets see right through the so-called perfect senior member because, simply, there aren’t any. All of us have made mistakes, lived through them, corrected them, and made good on them. This is called wisdom, and we can share that with our cadets, our future leaders. They will probably make their own mistakes, but hopefully they won't make ours.

Today's young people lack some of the opportunities senior members had when we were their age, and other opportunities are open to them that we didn't have, so they are faced with many choices. Our job is to help them make an informed decision. Since we can make a difference, I know that it is worth the effort. I'm blessed by having the opportunity to help mold the leaders of tomorrow.

Through Cadet Programs, CAP cadets can learn what Core Values, Freedom, Integrity, and High Moral and Ethical Standards truly are and what they mean. We do make a difference, and ought to set time aside to help a young cadet become a solid, well-grounded, moral citizen. There are thousands of people willing to teach them what won't serve them well, and we can prevent this by choosing to be involved in teaching them and making a positive difference.

Will you make it worth the effort? Will you share that wisdom you have, and make a difference in a cadet’s life?

I think it is worth the effort. Every single day.

Capt. Skip Smith, CAP, Deputy Director of Cadet Programs, Texas Wing

Leadership Experience

TYLER, Texas – In CAP I have held many leadership positions, ranging from element cadet leader to cadet executive officer. I have seen first-hand how admiringly leaders are looked up to, but I have also witnessed what happens when that leader falls short, or fails the mission.

CAP has taught me that leadership is not just about having the illusion of power or having authority. It is about exercising core values. Successful cadet leaders are respectful, show excellence in all they do, and know when to step up and lead by example. Those cadets, those leaders who lead with a servant’s heart, are the ones that will ultimately succeed.

Ever since I accepted my first leadership position at my squadron I have been taught numerous things. Perhaps the most important has been that no matter what I do, no matter what happens, I ought to always have an attitude of service towards my followers.

As I prepare for this year’s summer encampment, I have decided to go through the Advanced Training Squadron (ATS) as a student. Many times I laugh at other cadets’ reaction. Most of them say, “But you were command chief last summer, you could have a pretty important staff position this year too, why didn’t you apply?” Over the last two years, ATS has evolved. It has been modified into a top-notch leadership school, and has put itself on the map as producing graduating classes of high-speed, reliable cadets.

But it also has been stereotyped as an “NCO” school. In the past, cadet officers have ignored requests to attend, not out of disrespect for the school, but simply because we as cadet officers within Civil Air Patrol Texas Wing tend to nurture a bad habit of thinking that we have “arrived.” We feel that we know everything, and that there is nothing more to do than hold important staff positions at encampment. Although we might be able to do that and succeed, there’s more to it.

1. 2.

[1] Cadet Jesse Carr volunteers as Martial Arts expert demonstrates self defense tactics to Tyler Composite Sqaudron cadets. (Photo: Capt. Dick Gilmore) [2] (L-R) Cadet Jesse Carr and fellow cadet leaders – Cadet 1st Lt. Isaac Niedrauer and Cadet Capt. John Shanahan – are recognized for their leadership excellence by squadron commander Capt. Robert "Skip" Smith. (Photo: 1st Lt. Rodrigo Saucedo)

I always like to go back to the quote by the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter, architect and poet Michelangelo Buonarroti, who was known all his life as just “Michelangelo.” Even as a renowned artist, one with consummate skill and technical expertise second to none, supremely innovative, Michelangelo was humble enough to say, “I am still learning.”

We are still learning, and that is why I have decided to attend ATS. Not to bring attention to myself, but to continue to learn, to keep myself in the mindset that, “I am still learning.” I keep this in mind so that in the future, when I am in a leadership position, I’ll be able to lead with excellence, with a servant’s heart, and with the philosophy that, “I am still learning.” 

As leaders we must focus on our followers, not glory, fame, or power (besides, how can you have power in a volunteer organization, anyway?). We must see the mission, care for our followers, and set our sights on the prize. And that prize is their success, our follower’s success. As a leader, there is nothing more rewarding, more humbling than to witness the success of someone you have led, taught, mentored, and instructed.

My experience as a CAP cadet leader has benefited me for the years to come. It has given me skills I can use in the workplace, in sports, and even within my family. I have tasted what it is like to grow up. I have experienced a small fraction of what it takes to be a leader within a quasi-military organization, or even within a business. With these skills I can now better serve my community, state, and nation.

Serving from a leadership position is one of the many things that my CAP leadership has taught me. It is something I strive to remember, practice, and put to good use everywhere I go. I have discovered that it is the key to success, gaining trust, and earning loyalty and respect.

As a leader, I want to do more for others than I do for myself.

Cadet 2nd Lt. Jesse Carr, CAP

Life Without a Chaplain

Group III still has no chaplain, but our retired Chaplain Marc keeps himself busy. His health is improving slowly, and his family life is his great joy. Happiness, after all, is a state of mind and the soul, and it reflects the individual's degree of satisfaction with respect to the road traveled in the past, the present, and expected future.

As is my custom, I sent him this month's selection, Reach out; before they take action, by Brig. Gen. Edward L. Bolton, Jr., USAF, 45th SW commander, that urges us to extend a helping hand to those in trouble.

Chaplain Marc, without hesitation, gave it his blessing, "I've done it all my life..." he said.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor

Are you ready for 2010?

Communications has steadily taken a front seat at disaster response after-action sessions. It has become more of a necessity, as we see multiple agencies responding together for a Unified Command approach to handling disaster response. Have you prepared yourself and your team to blend into this type of response? Do you know what the channel numbers are in our radios to talk to the Coast Guard, Texas State Police and others? We need to have our plan in place for communicating with others, not just amongst ourselves.

We will be using the following model I’ve ripped from the pages of the FEMA training website as our guide for Group III training.

These five steps are a never ending cycle of improvement.

1. Plan – Make a plan that outlines what you will do when called to action. Have your written plan available for all squadron members to see and understand. Have regular discussions at squadron meetings so new members are familiar with your plan.

2. Organize/Equip – Get your communications gear ready to roll. You may not be operating from the squadron communications room when you are called on to help. Have everything ready, batteries charged and easily portable if the need arises.

3. Train – Have communications training at every squadron meeting. Have regular “hands-on” sessions, so that everyone using the radio gear will be comfortable with its setup and operation. Train everyone to at least the BCUT level.

4. Exercise – Participate in all the Group/Wing training exercises. Nothing shows a plan's weak points like putting it in action. Make detailed notes of what went wrong and what went right.

5. Evaluate/Improve – Use your detailed notes to make changes to you written plan. Now go back to step 1.

As the Group III communications officer, I am ready to assist in any way I can with any and all five steps outlined above. Watch for announcements of Group Communications exercises and come out and play! It’s fun, educational and ultimately will make all of us better individuals and teams within CAP.

1st Lt. Roger Courtney, CAP, Communications Officer

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

Yet Another Social Networking Site?

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – We saw them spring up and grow, MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and the like. Now there's Buzz, from Google's creative halls of goodies. It's being doled out to Google account members.

Buzz? That's what they call it, and you can find it at www.google.com/buzz - a free download. It leverages your Gmail account with Inbox integration, it's supposed to be easy to use, and it is smart-phone friend as it will display legibly.

But is it any good? Does it meet the expectations of users accustomed to the seasoned networking tools?

So far, the application has been the object of mixed reviews. No doubt, Google will react quickly and answer them, playing catch-up to the others and trying to carve a niche for itself.

For a candid review, you might want to read Serdar Yegulalp's - And no, I didn't make up that name.

Reality check. Not everyone is happy with Buzz. In Goodbye, Google Buzz, J.R. Raphael shows how, if you don't like it, you can get rid of it.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

IT Tools, Science and More

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – Below are some helpful IT, defense and high-tech links.

Facebook Tips and Tweaks

Navy commissions cyber defense command

Fake Microsoft Outlook Update Installs Trojan

Take Exciting Photos at Night

How to Create a Facebook Business Page in 5 Simple Steps (with Video!)

Teleworkers get the job done with a BlackBerry and car charger

Kneber Botnet Highlights Trend of Social Networking Data Being Used by Hackers

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

Interesting Links and Downloads

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – Below are some interesting links to free software.

Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Free - Use it to supplement your regular malware program.

FastStone Image Viewer - Viewer/editor

Photoscape - Great editing tools, including batch processing.

Duplicate File Hunter - Creates list of duplicate files

FlashFire for XP - Speeds up XP

XnView - Free photo editor

Comodo Time Machine - When trouble hits, roll back your PC to a known "good state."

BitTorrent - Get started with this popular file transfer protocol.

PCWorld's Fantastic Freebies 2010: Desktop Customization

FastPictureViewer WIC RAW Codec Pack - View RAW images taken with high-end digital cameras

Portable Ubuntu Remix - Run Linux programs in your Windows PC

T3Desk - Minimize programs to the desktop, the size and transparency you want. For Win XP and newer.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, ITO

Recent Statistics

This is the first of a series of short articles sharing with Group III membership the statistics of the Group's aircraft operations. Its purpose is to help give an overview of the Group’s aircraft utilization as well as highlight Squadrons that are putting aircraft to maximum use. It also shows the Squadrons that need to become more maintenance-free and/or need to fly more hours.

Here’s a summary of Year-to-date (CAP fiscal year Oct 09 to Jan 2010):

Top 3 aircraft that have the most aircraft hours put on them:

N6576N  51.6
N111ZY  42.0
N984CP  40.2

Bottom 3 aircraft that have the least hours put on them:

N455CP  2.7  (very new to inventory)
N18NJ   13.7 (effectively dead in the water)
N735CR 22.9

Down time is important to monitor.  All aircraft need some maintenance done. Some aircraft have more work done than others. 

Aircraft with the most (“down days”) FYTD:

N111ZY  67
N18NJ   59
N8410E 54

So how are we doing when compared to a year ago?

Total aircraft hours flown, FYTD 08-09: 440.7
Total aircraft hours flown, FYTD 09-10: 324.7

Total “down days,” FYTD 08-09:  277
Total “down days,” FYTD 09-10:  269

As you can see when compared to last year, Group III aircraft are putting on 26% fewer flight hours and have 3% fewer “down days” as this same time a year ago.

Maj. John Krogstad, CAP, Group III Asst. Air Operations Officer

My Squadron Leadership School Experience, 20-21 February

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas – It was a hit!  During the weekend of Feb. 20-21, 2010, Groups II and III jointly offered professional development courses for CAP members. The South Ft. Worth Diamond Back and the Crusader Composite Squadrons hosted and graciously shuttled us around in their CAP vans. I attended the  Squadron Leadership School (SLS), but also offered were a Corporate Learning Course (CLC) and a Unit Commanders Course (UCC). At 7:30 am, the sign-in line moved quickly. A short distance away, we were offered a fresh cup of coffee and donuts as well as shown the location of the break room. Some attendees greeted fellow members and others met for the first time. It was a pleasant way to start the day before going into the classrooms.

1. 2. 3.

[1] Opening briefing of the Group II/III SLS/CLC/UCC. Participants listen to Capt. Steve Hudson, Maj. Jay Workman, and Maj. Russ Miller.  [2] (L-R) Capt. Steve Hudson, Maj. Jay Workman and Maj. Russ Miller at the SLS/CLC/UCC opening briefing. [3] CAP-USAF Texas State Director Ed Brown teaches CAP and CAP-USAF Roles and Missions at the SLS/CLC/UCC at Grand Prairie. (Photos: Capt. Sandra Smith, CAP)

With all of us in the same room, Capt. Stephen Hudson, the Group II Chief of Staff, delivered an outstanding opening, followed by instruction on how to use eServices. He emphasized the strength of the chain of command whenever we have a problem or need, and asked us to follow it. Rather than calling the Civil Air Patrol National Headquarters telephone numbers that come with our membership card, he asked us to move up the chain of command from squadron to group and so on. An excellent advise that works very well.

After the opening, we separated into three groups. The SLS was led by 1st Lt. Charles Wabbersen of South Ft Worth Composite Squadron and assistants Capt. Richard G. Hughes of Crusader Composite Squadron and Capt. Choya Shanahan of Sulphur Springs Senior Squadron; the CLC was led by Capt. Robert Severance III of Grand Prairie Composite Squadron; and the UCC was led by Maj. J. H. Workman, commander of the South Ft. Worth Composite Squadron. I had enrolled in the SLS.

4. 5. 6.

[4] Lt. Col. E.S. "Tex" Collins was one of our great instructors at the SLS. [5] During a break, Maj. Jack Lewis, CAP-USAF State Director Ed Brown, and Lt. Col. E.S. "Tex" Collins. [6] Addressing a joint CLC/SLS group, CAP-USAF State Director Ed Brown explained how CAP-USAF is structured and how it supports Texas Wing. (Photos: Maj. Jay Workman, CAP)

My classmates were an interesting group, as they came from all occupations: nurse practitioner, district attorney, full-time airline captain, flight instructor, police officer, railroad worker, and a forensic computer analyst with the United States Postal Service. I wanted to get to know them all, but there wasn’t enough time. During the coffee break, the donuts looked tempting, I just had the coffee.

The first subject we tackled was how the CAP-USAF liaison structure is organized, and got into how we are the A1st Air Force whenever we are activated to work a catastrophic disaster. I did not know that. We really do work for the Air Force; no wonder it is important for us to have a good working relationship with them. I did not know that they come around once a year to see how well Texas Wing is doing its job. For the groups and squadrons, though, we get checked by the Texas Wing Inspector General.

We had breaks, of course, and I managed not to eat a single donut the entire two days I was there. We soon talked about professional image and this poor non-compliant senior member had no epaulets, wrong shoes and something else with his shirt I think. He was a champion, smiling while he was the hit of the class. We took turns looking at what was wrong with his uniform. I bet next time we see him, he’ll point out what is wrong with ours, because I’m sure he must have been a plant.

7. 8. 9.

[7] Capt. Steve Hudson teaches e-Services at the UCC. OPS Qual and e-Services was one of the most popular topics of the weekend. [8] Lt. Col. Jack Faas taught a segment of the Unit Commanders Course. [9] Texas Wing Commander Col. Joe Smith taught a portion of the UCC.  (Photo #7, Capt. Sandra Smith, CAP; Others, Maj. Jay Workman, CAP)

Effective Communications stressed how we should be concise, clear, and have well thought out ideas in our writing, speech, and organization. Lastly, we covered the Civil Air Patrol’s three missions. Right after, we were asked how we could help these programs work more effectively.
There was no school bell to let us know that time was up. Every training section covered was so interesting and well presented that it was hard to stay on schedule, but we had Maj. Jay Workman who performed effortlessly, keeping us all in order and on time. He must have been roller-skating, he got around so quickly. Okay, maybe not. He would come into the classroom, raise his hand, ask questions, and leave – but not before telling us something useful, amusing, or both.

It soon became apparent that all instructors were committed to the subject they were teaching. Their lessons were clearly laid out and made good sense. Individually, they brought their own element of surprise that went well with their unique personality.

10.

[10] Group III Commander Lt. Col. Owen Younger at UCC's closing ceremonies. He stressed the importance of the squadron and the responsibility that a commander has.  (Photo: Capt. Sandra Smith, CAP)

It was all about the role of Leadership and Volunteer Service in a great organization: The Civil Air Patrol. When the course was over, we went over to our Wing Commander, Colonel Joe Smith, with a salute, a handshake, and a photo.

I was so nervous, I think I saluted him twice.

1st Lt. Ada Matthews, CAP, Group II PAO

"Whose byline is it, anyway?"

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – As one would expect, beginning PAOs start out by writing under their own byline. Also, they study the regulations, especially CAPR 190-1 and CAPR 20-1, and many conclude that PAOs, by definition, must all be senior members. After a while, if they're lucky, unit members will start sending in articles – some well-written, others not – and the PAO will need to edit them.

Sometimes, submitted work can be not only rough but also unclear. Mentoring in the mechanics of editing usually comes from higher headquarters, until the PAO has learned the trade. From then on, after a phone call or two, the experienced editor will promptly fix difficult prose, sticking to the facts and striving to stay true to style and tone – since the author's original voice needs to be heard (unless it is in poor taste).

Experienced and ethical CAP editors share another trait. They leave the original byline untouched.

It is unfortunate that perfectly adequate outside experience brought into the Civil Air Patrol, at times, can turn into a handicap. Take, for instance, the academic editor who is used to working on scientific articles. In university circles, an article bylined by "John Doe et al." might need editing. That last part, the et al., is Latin for et alii, meaning "and others" and stands for a list of names. How many names? Whose names? I'm glad you asked.

Those et al. are graduate students, generally PhD candidates, who have done all or most of the lab work that went into the article, and written most if not all of it. John Doe is their PhD instructor and mentor, often the department head, who often has done little more than lend his name to the project, take the credit, and assume the responsibility. That last one though, the responsibility, is a biggie, so in Academia it is considered ethical to have Dr. John Doe be the sole "name" author. Except that the article's byline will read just "John Doe," since as a matter of course the author will have earned a doctorate in something. But who are actually the et al.? No one knows. In Academia, this is considered ethical.

Now, let's say that you, a doctoral candidate, find yourself bunched into that et al. How would you feel about it?

Or take the case of a Subject Matter Expert who has a PhD and happens to be an academic editor. In editing, this SME finds some errors or omissions, corrects them, then might get permission to change the byline to "John Doe, SME, et al." Just another scientific article. Of course, a lot more goes into it, including peer review – though the reviewing peers' input is not credited on the article.

Now, viewed objectively, the article's editor could be considered a hands-on member of the peer review. But if the editor is given credit, why aren't the peers credited too? Isn't that review produced by the peers just as important as the editor's work?

The subtlety of "contributing editor" is another matter, generally the province of a literate or serious magazine or journal. In practice, when granted, credit to a "contributing editor" will show at the end of the article, not the byline.

Reality check.

The Civil Air Patrol is not Academia, nor does CAP publish literate or "serious" magazines. The Civil Air Patrol is a volunteer organization, chartered by congress, with three missions. Of these, from the point of view of the PAO, Cadet Programs ought to be of special concern.

Granted that only a senior member can be a PAO, but even the PAO's work must be approved by the unit commander before it can be published. Thus, in practice, anyone in the unit could write an article and byline it – and distribute it if the unit commander approves it.

Now let's suppose that a unit PAO is convinced that only senior members can byline an article (although this is not the case). So along comes an article on an activity, bylined by a young cadet who has given it to the senior member in charge of that activity, and in turn the latter has sent it to the PAO as the cadet submitted it.

The PAO now has a cadet-bylined article, sent in by a senior member. Some PAOs cannot resist the "byline fix" of placing the "contributing" senior member's name in front of the cadet's. In Philosophy, this is called "the slippery slope," because from doing that to turning the cadet into an et al. lies but a short step. Would that be ethical? Would that serve the Civil Air Patrol, the unit and the cadet well? What's the difference between this and the accepted world of Academia's unheralded et al. arrangement?

The obvious answer is, "Age." Except under the rarest of circumstances, PhD candidates are over 18 and, therefore, able to agree to the et al. convention. But CAP cadets under the age of 18 must be treated differently. Of course, the inquisitive mind will ask other questions. Some of these might be:

How many PAOs really understand the Cadet Protection Program? How many are truly mentors? What is mentoring if not the careful guiding of someone, one step at a time, until full potential has been reached, encouraging the mentee all the way? How would the mentee be encouraged by losing public ownership to an article, even if partially, via a changed byline?

How do we deal with this issue?

I started my PA career in a squadron and have served at group, wing and region (the latter my current unit of assignment), gathering some experience on the subject of cadet authors – a subject that is very dear to my heart. So here's what I've learned.

In practice, if the PAO changes a cadet's byline, that cadet may never write for that PAO again. Worse yet, this might greatly harm the cadet and perhaps snuff out an early aptitude for writing. How could this be considered mentoring? How could this empower the cadet to succeed? How could this show respect for the cadet? How could this help the cadet grow, mature, and become the leader of tomorrow?

When dealing with submitted work, whether from senior members or cadets, here is my advice to all PAOs in Southwest Region

1. Never change a byline.

2. No matter how much editing you contribute to an article, take no credit for it. That tiny benefit of recognition would have been purchased at the real author's expense, and perhaps to that author's harm (especially in the case of a cadet).

3. It is truly more blessed to give than to receive.

Let's say that you are a squadron PAO. If you do a good job, success will follow, because your own work will be published, contributed work published by squadron members will bear witness to your ability and willingness to mentor others, and thus your leadership abilities will stand out brightly.

You'll know you're doing the right thing when cadets are willing to write for you, senior members send you photos with or without an article, or articles with or without photos, and gathering original publishable material becomes very easy for you. The Civil Air Patrol will be well served, and top-notch work will come out of your squadron, all to your credit. Eventually, your reward will come when you're asked to rise above squadron.

Afterwards, one day, you'll get a cadet-bylined article and call the author for clarification. What follows happened to me. When the cadet answered the phone, I told him my name and asked him if he knew who I was. His reply gave me pause. "Oh yes, Sir, every cadet in the wing knows how much you've done for us."

There is no higher accolade than that. If you disagree, you're in the Civil Air Patrol for the wrong reasons.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, SWR Director of Public Affairs

Salute to Veterans Week, 8-12 February

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – During the week of Feb. 8-13 2010, the Department of Veterans Affairs is saluting veterans at medical centers all over the U.S. Coincidentally, my friend Chaplain (Lt. Col.) George Kelly sent me a moving narrative. I thought it might be a fake, but it sure sounded real. An Internet search proved it authentic, so it is published at the link below.

After the crushing attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7 1941, during America's darkest hour, the country's morale was at its lowest. The Empire of Japan had hit American soil, albeit in the middle of the Pacific, causing great destruction and severely damaging the Pacific Fleet. Yet, beyond declaring war, America had not retaliated. Barely over a month after Pearl Harbor Day, on Jan. 10 1942, Navy Captain Francis Low, Assistant Chief of Staff for Anti-submarine Warfare under Admiral Ernest King, conceived of a possible strike using twin-engine Army B-25 bombers.

The plan's feasibility proven (at least on paper) and the mission approved, Army Air Corps Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle – a famous civilian aviator and aeronautical engineer – was chosen to implement it. A Veteran's Testament of Courage tells the story from the point of view of one of the famous raid's pilots. His was Aircraft #13, dubbed "Lucky 13" after the mission had been completed and the entire crew had survived it.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor

Honoring our Veterans, 10 February

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – In 2005, almost by accident, a Delta Airlines baggage handler at Atlanta International Airport saw a military figure saluting a casket that was being unloaded from an airplane. The need to honor those who have served and fallen, whether in combat or not, prompted him to start a volunteer group among Delta Airlines employees.

At first, they got burial flags from the VFW, but soon the airline decided to pay their expenses, including building a special covered caisson with an American flag painted over the cover. The volunteer group has grown, and now counts with many employees who have served in the military. The latter, at first, were hesitant to join in, but they found that rendering honors to others helped them come to grips with old spiritual wounds, achieving a welcome catharsis.

Throughout the year, military honors continue to be rendered on the Atlanta International Airport's tarmac, even multiple times daily. The Honor Guard's work is unscheduled, as it is dependent on the arrival of veterans' caskets. They wear their baggage-handler blue coveralls for a uniform, as they handle the flags with military precision, committed to the moment of ultimate respect.

Gradually, they've increased their numbers and equipment, and now have added flags of all military services which they use in their ceremonies. The group's founder has left Delta, and another one taken his place, who in turn lived through the poignant moment of honoring the remains of his own father, with his uniformed son by his side.

YouTube - dads honors

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, Editor

First F-22A Raptor Fighters Operational at Langley AFB

DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas – In 1981, the Air Force decided that replacing the F-15 Eagle would become necessary, an initiative that would culminate in the creation of the F-22A Raptor. A request for proposals was issued in 1986, and on Apr. 23, 1991 the Lockheed YF-22 was declared the winner. The first deployment took place in October, 2005.

This superior fighter cannot be sold abroad, although foreign customers are seeking upgrades to their air defensive capabilities. The expected F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, a VTOL-capable platform, is now undergoing test flights and has not yet been deployed. Seeking an exportable conventional substitute, the development of a less-capable "export version" of the F-22 has been ordered.

In the meantime, the U.S. Air Force is the only one flying the F-22A Raptor operationally.

On Dec. 15, 2005, the F-22A attained Initial Operational Capability and was first assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing, Langley AFB. This PowerPoint presentation shows this unique aircraft in flight, when it was first delivered to Langley.

The F-22A has been called America 's most advanced fighter aircraft for the 21st Century, and not without reason.

Of titanium and carbon fiber construction, it is an unbeatable fighter plane. It is so advanced that switching off the on-board locator can render it virtually invisible to even our own satellites. Another unique first for military aircraft is a "black-out button" - or BOB.

Even in the best physical condition, a fighter pilot can remain conscious until about 15G. The Raptor, however, can execute 22G turns. In the event that a missile is developed that might catch up to a Raptor, and the pilot realizes a strike is imminent, he'll be able to push the BOB to have the airplane make an automatic near-instant U-turn, simply letting the missile pass by.

Since this maneuver will render the pilot temporarily unconscious, the Raptor will automatically resume straight and level flight until the pilot wakes up and resumes manual control.

For more photos, please visit this link.

Maj. Arthur E. Woodgate, CAP, 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 February, should you want to use them at your own squadron.

March Flight Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

March Ground Safety Briefing (MS Word document)

Recurring Reports

Editor

Reach out; before they take action

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The past ten days have been hard for the wing and me because we lost a valued member of our wing prematurely. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

It's at times like these when we are reminded how crucial people are to us, both at work and at home.

As leaders and as wingmen, we all try to do all we can to take care of our people. We get them to training. We teach them to do things the "military" way. We hammer home things like personal accountability, job responsibility and the importance of physical fitness.

Now I have one question for you. Do you really get to know the people with whom you work? Really?

Do you know what they enjoy doing in their down time? Do you know anything about their family situation? Do you know if they are in financial trouble? Do you know what makes them tick?

If you don't, then you need to make it your mission to do an "eyeball check" with those around you, especially during these trying times.

For some, sadly, the answer to trying times has been suicide. This is something we are doing all we can to stop, because each person's life is important to countless people who feel an unimaginable loss when someone's life ends.

I'm sure we have all read that many service members are often hesitant to admit "they are having issues." They sometimes confuse asking for help for depression and other conditions with being weak.

They may be thinking this kind of admission will hurt their performance reports, their reputation, and maybe their "standing" in the Shark community.

Well I'm here to tell you it won't. But don't just take it from me.

Army Gen. Carter Ham, one of the Army's 12 four-star generals, went public a few months ago with his battle against Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after an incident on a base in Iraq left him easily startled and struggling to get a good night's sleep.

The general, brought up in the military's culture of never going to sick call unless you're close to your death bed, sought help from his base chaplain. He has been reported to say it helped him "get realigned." In other words, he was smart enough to "reach out" when he needed help. The "why" - or whatever "triggered" - anyone to feel this way is not the important issue.

Because "problems" - like beauty - are often in the eye of the beholder. It's your job. It's my job . It's everyone's job to try and identify those issues before they get out of hand.

Let's all be good Wingmen and make sure we are there for our total Air Force family. As always, thanks for all you do.

Brig. Gen. Edward L. Bolton, Jr., USAF, 45th SW commander

Aviation & more

Safety

CAP Ribbon Rack Builder – Check your CAP ribbons.

The Squadron in the News, 7 February GLADEWATER, Texas – On Sunday, Feb. 7 2010, the Longview News-Journal published an article on the awards presented at the Gladewater Corsairs Composite Squadron on Jan. 19 2010. Local publication of Civil Air Patrol events has had an excellent impact on squadron recognition in the community, and has resulted in good recruiting and retention. Also, community awareness of the squadron and the Civil Air Patrol's missions and emergency services work has resulted in increased opportunities for the squadron to participate in local events. (Capt. Harold Parks, CAP)

Gladewater Cadet Promoted, 9 February

GLADEWATER, Texas – On Feb. 9, 2010, during a regular Tuesday night meeting, Cadet Avery Bridges was promoted to Cadet Airman. Having completed requirements in Physical Training, Leadership, Character Development and Squadron Activities, Cadet Bridges became eligible for her new grade. During the promotion ceremony, Squadron Commander Capt. Harold Parks and Deputy Commander for Cadets Maj. Gerry Davis pinned her new insignia of grade on her uniform.

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[1] (L-R) Maj. Gerry Davis, Cadet Airman Avery Bridges, Capt. Harold Parks pinning on her new insignia. [2] (L-R) Maj. Gerry Davis, Cadet Airman Avery Bridges, Capt. Parks presenting the Certificate of Promotion. (Photos: Cadet Chief Master Sgt. Andrew Alexander.)

Our newest Airman, who lives and attends school in Lindale, Texas, is a very active member of our Squadron. She joined CAP in October of last year and has already proven herself to be a very friendly and dedicated member, always willing to lend a hand when needed.

We are very happy to have her as a member of our Squadron.

(Capt. Harold Parks, CAP)

Squadron Cadet Joins the Army National Guard

     LONGVIEW, Texas – Private First Class (PFC) Caroline Elizabeth Morton, age 19, is the daughter of 1st Lt. Carolyn Morton, CAP, commander of the Gregg County Composite Squadron, SWR-TX-089, Texas Wing. Cadet Morton has been a member of the squadron for the past five years. During her membership in the Civil Air Patrol, she advanced steadily through the ranks of the cadet program, achieving the grade of Cadet 2nd Lieutenant, and has served as her squadron's Cadet Commander. Along the way, she attained important distinctions – such as having been selected as Honor Cadet for both her flight of the Cadet Advanced Training Squadron (ATS), and the entire ATS encampment – during the Texas Wing Winter 2007 Encampment.

PFC Morton has enlisted for an eight-year tour with the Texas National Guard as a chemical specialist – a position commonly called "Chemical Soldier." This involves handling chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological materials, isolating and neutralizing them when appropriate, and related hazards. She recently completed her Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. PFC Morton distinguished herself by achieving a high score in her Army Physical Fitness Test during both her Basic and Advanced Individual Training. Partly due to this achievement, that is especially significant for female enlistees, she was selected for a coveted spot in the new Airborne Unit of the Texas National Guard. PFC Morton is the first female trainee to be accepted in the history of this unit.

PFC Morton is excited by her assignment and its future possibilities, and enjoys the support and encouragement of her entire family. Upon completion of her tour with the National Guard. she plans to enter the nursing field.

(1st Lt. Karl Falken, CAP)

The Squadron Participates in a “Four Chaplains” Memorial Ceremony, 6 February

GLADEWATER, Texas – The Gregg County Composite Squadron, took part in a memorial ceremony in honor of the “Four Chaplains” on Feb. 6, 2010. The service honored the memory and service of the four WWII chaplains who gave their lives while helping other servicemen onboard the doomed USAT Dorchester on Feb. 03, 1943. The chaplains – Father John Washington, Reverend Clark Poling, Rabbi Alexander Goode, and Reverend George Fox – selflessly aided and ministered to the soldiers and sailors, many of whom were mortally wounded, and handed out life jackets to others as the ship was rapidly sinking. Eventually, they gave away their own life jackets, perishing along with 668 others of the crew and company of 902.

Witnesses reported how each of these clergymen, from different faiths and denominations, gave to soldiers and sailors of all faiths and races selflessly, during the panicked 18 minutes that elapsed between the time a torpedo struck the troop ship until it disappeared below the North Atlantic's icy waters, some 100 miles off the coast of Greenland. They were last seen on the hull of the ship, locked arm-in-arm, praying for all on board as the ship went down.

1st Lt. Carolyn Morton, squadron commander, thanked Commander Linda Reed of the Sgt. Travis Watkins Memorial American Legion Post 281 in Gladewater for having invited the squadron to this event. “This was a very moving, emotional service, and our squadron was honored to be a part of it,” she said. The cadets, headed by Cadet 2nd Lt. Andrew Shea, led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. Following an address by the keynote speaker, Cadet Senior Master Sgt. Hannah Morton laid a wreath at the foot of a montage that honored these heroes. During the ceremony, 2nd Lt. Darrell Smith served as one of the four honorary chaplains, reading a biography of Rabbi Goode.

After the service, Commander Reed expressed her thanks to 1st Lt. Morton for her squadron’s participation, “It is always a privilege to work with the cadets and senior members of the Gregg County Composite Squadron. They are always so prepared and precise in what they do, and we look forward to continuing to work together with them. We have several upcoming events and look forward to their participation with us in each of these.”

(2nd Lt. Ronald G. Morton, CAP)

Tiger Scouts Get AE Primer at the Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron, 7 February

AUSTIN-BERGSTROM INT'L AIRPORT, Texas – On Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010, members of the Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron and Apollo Composite Squadron held an aerospace education community outreach event. The participants were eight Tiger Scouts and eight parents of Pack 445 Tiger Den from Bee Cave, Texas. The activity took place at the Texas Department of Transportation Flight Services building at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, in Austin. The classroom, hangar and ramp served as venues for this highly interactive session. Maj. Jim Rodriguez and Sr. Member Derrick Evans of Kittinger Senior Squadron and 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen, Cadet 2nd Lt. Michael Moody, and Cadet Staff Sgt. Micah Strauss of Apollo Composite Squadron were the instructors and assistants.

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[1] S.M. Evans demonstrates how Bernoulli's principle results in lift over the surface of an airfoil. The Bergstrom runways are in the backdrop. [2] The mystery of map reading is quickly dispelled for the attentive Tiger Cubs. [3] The Tiger Cubs were very interested in sectional charts and how a pilot uses them for navigation. Being at Bergstrom made it easier for them to understand the map relative to their physical location at that moment.

Cadets Moody and Strauss did a great job organizing the Tiger Cubs, teaching them how direction finding equipment works, and demonstrating the use of both rubber-band-powered and compressed-air-powered rockets. 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen’s flexibility and preparedness were invaluable to organizing the event. She ensured that there was enough equipment present to make the event successful under any contingency. S.M. Derrick Evans was a natural with the Tiger Scouts, helping them understand Bernoulli's principle and lift, aircraft control surfaces, and pilot-Air Traffic Control communications.

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[4] Maj. Rodriguez explains how an aircraft reacts in flight depending on the pilot's elevator input. [5] Cadet Strauss leads a mock direction-finding mission through a see-and-hear exercise. [6] Cadet Moody delights a Tiger Cub with a demonstration of compressed-air-rocketeering. (Photos: 1st Lt. Sue Kristoffersen)

The event was extremely well-received by both Tiger Scouts and parents. The latter were highly impressed with the Civil Air Patrol in general and the participating cadets in particular.

(Maj. James Rodriguez, CAP)

Squadron Member Earns the Gill Robb Wilson Award, 1 February

WACO, Texas – Maj. John H. Boyd, CAP, a member of the Waco Composite Squadron, is the latest recipient of CAP’s highest Professional Development Achievement, the prestigious Gill Robb Wilson Award. The simple ceremony took place at the offices of Baylor University’s Air Force ROTC on Feb. 1, 2010. Texas State Representative Charles “Doc” Anderson of Waco made the presentation. Attending the ceremony were the officers and cadets of the Waco Composite Squadron; Maj. Boyd’s wife Sherron; Col. Dan Leonard, USAF, Commander of AFROTC Detachment 810 at Baylor University; CAP-USAF Texas State Director Ed Brown; and other dignitaries, colleagues, and friends.

Maj. Boyd earned this prestigious CAP award, considered an Executive Level achievement, by progressing through 5 levels of increasingly difficult training and development, performing Command and Staff functions in the Squadron for more than 3 years, and completing the United States Air Force’s Air Command and Staff College. Adding to the challenge, Maj. Boyd accomplished this while discharging the duties of his longtime professorship at Baylor University in Waco, Texas where he currently serves as Director of Career Services.

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[1] State Representative Charles Anderson officiates at the ceremony, as he tells those in attendance about CAP's importance in the nation's history. [2] Mrs. John (Sherron) Boyd, Maj. John Boyd, CAP, and State Representative Charles Anderson. [3] The refreshments were graciously donated by H.E.B. [4] Col. Dan Leonard, USAF, commander of AFROTC Detachment 810, congratulates Maj. John Boyd on his accomplishment.

Maj. Phillip Crawford, CAP, Commander of the Waco Composite Squadron, opened the ceremony by thanking everyone present and presenting a brief outline of Maj. Boyd’s career. During the ceremony, “Doc” Anderson reviewed CAP’s history and its current role in today’s Homeland Security and disaster relief efforts, as well as CAP’s Cadet Programs and its contributions to local and national Aerospace Education. He then presented the Gill Rob Wilson Award certificate to Maj Boyd, who was honored with a reception and refreshments immediately afterwards.

Lt. Col. Owen Younger, Maj. Boyd’s Group Commander, said, “John is to be congratulated for his achievement. His demonstrated leadership in Professional Development is a tremendous example to the cadets and officers of the Waco Composite Squadron, Group III, and Texas Wing. John’s receiving the Gill Robb Wilson Award means that he has completed the highest Senior Member achievement available within Civil Air Patrol. This award can be earned only by an accomplished Civil Air Patrol senior member, and is bestowed on its recipient in honor of the founder and first executive officer of Civil Air Patrol. John’s achievement represents conspicuously meritorious performance and exceptionally distinguished service to Civil Air Patrol.”

(Maj. Phillip Crawford, CAP)