Wreaths Across America 2006

In this issue . . . 5 Apollo SQ win a 1st Prize in Robotics . . . 5 Honoring Col Kittinger, USAF, Ret . . . 5 Delta Cadet attends Space Conference . . . . . . And Much More!

SPRING 2007

COMMANDERS
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COMMENTS

Colonel Robert F. Frank Eldridge, Texas Wing Commander

My
Wings Over Texas is the authorized publication of the Texas Wing Civil Air Patrol. It is published by a private firm in no way connected with the United States Air Force or Civil Air Patrol Corporation. The opinions expressed in the articles and advertisements in this magazine are the sole responsibility of the contributors and in no way constitute an endorsement by the United States Air Force or the Civil Air Patrol Corporation. HEADQUARTERS Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol USAF Auxiliary P. O. Box 154997 Waco, TX 76715 Please send articles and digital photos for publication to: Please do not insert the photos into the articles, rather make the articles and photos separate attachments. DEADLINES: Feb. 28; June 28; Oct. 28 Col Robert F. Frank Eldridge Commander, Texas Wing Maj Patricia P. Darby Editor, Wings Over Texas For information on Advertising Rates and Space Please Call 1-800-635-6036

Wot-editor@sbcglobal.net

time as your Wing Commander is coming to a close during the Wing Conference, I will be passing the reins to Col Joe Smith. Im very proud of your accomplishments during the 3 years I have been your commander and I would like to pass on my deepest appreciation for the outstanding and professional manner in which you bring the highest credit to Texas Wing and the Civil Air Patrol. You are the American Volunteer Hero who continues to perform the Missions for America. Here are just a few of the Highlights Our cadet program is the best Ive seen. Our cadets are offered several training opportunities within our wing throughout each year to include two encampments, two cadet training education program schools, air navigation competition, wing cadet competition, drill master school, marksmanship training, communication school, Texas State Legislature Page Program, glider and powered flight academy, ground search and rescue specialty school and the Wing Cadet Advisory Council. This does not include the national activities our cadets also attend including the opportunity to participate in the International Air Cadet Exchange. Our membership strength has average over 1,300 cadets in the past three years, with impressive accomplishments: 165 Billy Mitchell Awards, 52 Amelia Earhart

Texas Wing Commander, Col Frank Eldridge

Awards, 15 Ira Eaker Awards and a very impressive 7 Carl Spaatz Awards. Each year our cadets receive ROTC scholarships and appointments to our military service academies. Our cadets are truly the leaders of tomorrow. All that I have mentioned does not happen without the senior members and the cadet officers supporting the cadet program. I would like to provide special thanks to Lt Col Brooks Cima for her leadership in developing the strong program we have today and to Major Phyllis Sutton who will no doubt carry on the outstanding job. Another area of great success is our Emergency Services program. Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana and Mississippi hard, but that didnt stop our folks from helping out. We deployed aircrews, ground teams and mission staff into Mississippi to assist. Continued on page 39 . . . 1

Wreaths Across America

Compiled from reports by Maj Dana Gray, 2d Lt Kelly Castillo, and 1st Lt Denise Thompson

Members of the Lone Star Chapter, Paralyzed Veterans of America, fire three ceremonial rifle volleys.

n December 14, 2006, Civil Air Patrol mem bers gathered at cemeteries and military memorials across the United States to honor our military, veterans and those that have given their lives to make this nation free. For the past 14 years, Worcester Wreath Company of Maine, has been laying wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery during the holiday

season to honor those that have given their lives that we may live in a free nation. In 2006 Worcester Wreath and CAP came together to expand the mission and create Wreaths Across America. Wreaths were laid in over 230 State and National cemeteries and Veterans Monuments across the country. In Texas, five squadrons participated in the ceremonies which

began at 12:00 p.m. EST. All ceremonies were to begin at the same time to coincide with a ceremony being conducted at Arlington National Cemetery. The new mission of Wreaths Across America is to Remember the fallen Honor those who serve Teach our children the value of freedom. Founders Morrill and Karen Worchester wish to bring together Continued on page 33 . . .
San Angelo(L to R) Staff Sergeant Nicole Powell represented the Army, Air Craft Handler 1st Class Shane Krueger represented the Navy, Captain Henry G. Billings, Jr., represented the Marines, 1st Lieutenant Timothy Lange represented the Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Tom Strickland Civil Air Patrol made the presentation for the US Coast Guard and Mr. Virgil May (former POW) represented the POW/MIA.

El Paso1st row: Maj Frank Kennedy, Maj Debbie Torres; 2nd row: 2d Lt Robert Duran, Capt Scott Dellinger (center), Maj Russell Smith; Last row: 1st Lt Charles Simien, 1st Lt Patrick Mulvey, 2d Lt Rory Smith, 1st Lt Ron Price (beard), Maj Larry Spradlin

For more information on Wreaths Across America visit www. wreaths across america.org
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Apollo CS Gets a Hot Air Balloon Demonstration

By C/SMSgt Michael Moody and Capt Arthur E. Woodgate
On 6 February the Apollo CS, Group III, got to play with a balloon. But it wasnt your every-day party balloon. This one happened to be a 75,000 cubic-foot balloon, the kind that can fly thousands of feet up into the air, miles at a time, with people in it. Mr. Bruce Lavorgna brought out his hot air balloon, that he had promised to set up for the squadron members. He arrived in this small panel truck, and I thought, ...but he promised to bring the real thing... Whats this? A toy? Never mind, we soon saw that it was the real thing. Its amazing how little balloon and how much hot air you need to make a humongous hot air balloon. He had the cadets help with setting up the balloon, while he tested the burner, talked and gave small demonstrations. It turns out that hot air balloons work best twice a day. First between dawn and an hour after dawn, then at the other end of the day, from an hour before sunset until sunset. The rest of the day warms up the air too much, and the balloon doesnt do as well. Also, when you think hot air balloon, you imagine an empty balloon that gets filled with hot air. Not so. First you fill it with cold air as much as you can, then you heat the cold air inside the balloon. Since using an open flame is the only easy way to get hot air in the field, the balloon needs to be filled with air first, or else the flame can touch it and burn it up. There was some wind that day. Not real wind, really, but even a breeze can add to the work when youre trying to hold a balloon where you want it. The Apollo cadets felt confident that they could do this, but the balloon kept getting bigger, and bigger, and bigger. Finally it was as big as Gulliver in Lilliput Land. The Apollo cadets (and senior members, too) were the Lilliputtians, of course. The cold and sleeping Gulliver got some pretty good shots of open flame, and that heated it some, and it started puffing up. Then it started to rise a little, and bounced a bit, and finally it started moving up right over the gondola. The gondola is the basket where the balloonist rides, together with the gas Continued on page 8 . . . 5

Texas Wing Cadet Awards 2006/2007

Benjamin J. Amis TX388 Jonathan Daniel TX334 Jesse Daniel TX334 Yesenia Alvarez TX802 Bradley J. Cilino TX351 Richard D. Pope TX351 Andrew N. Domenech TX196 Aaron T. Clay TX390 Jon T. Cuyler TX390 Nicholas D. Combs TX802 Jonathan D. Groves TX388 Cesar Riojas TX091 Matthew M. Toussain TX142 Raquel M. Gomez-Simmons TX403 Christopher Kingsbury TX098 Marie C. Krouse TX409 Robert A. Adkins TX148 Annabel R. Andrews TX179 Benjamin A. Josse TX376 Jacob A. Carr TX334 Joel A. Buchman TX334 Patrick J. Buchman TX334 Grayson E. Strakele TX051 Nathan J. Hays TX154 Daniel Glowicz TX051 Gus M. Rojas TX007 Michael T. Williams TX376 Joshua D. Jenkins TX085 Emmett K. Koen TX085 Camden T. Lawless TX441 Ada L. Hill TX802 Casey K. Vermillion TX441 Matthew E. Yalcin TX360 Edward J. Jabonski TX098 Christopher S. Miller TX098 Brandon G. Maso TX390 Ryan R. Wykes TX334 Stephen Kline TX334 Natalie J. Jacobs TX142 Brandon A. Mathis TX802 Stephen E. Camp TX089 James W. Camp TX089 Joey A. Hinchman TX403 Daniel P. Braden TX403 Robert G. Maestas TX051 Abigail E. Bellah TX388 Lisandro A. Rodriguez TX802 Joshua D. Knight TX154 Devin A. Reimers TX186 Herakles A. Boardman TX351 Kevin L. Glenn TX351

General Carl A. Spaatz Award

Caitlin R. Cima TX179 Anna M. Finn TX403 Paul J. Kapavik TX334 Michael T. Maloy TX390

General Ira C. Eaker Award

Jon T. Cuyler TX390 Bradley E. Sutton TX390 Matthew W. Whisennand TX133 Paul M. Rojas TX007 Daniel W.Palmquist TX413 Eric A. Mabry TX176 Paul J.Kapavik TX334

General Billy Mitchell Award

Parth S. Patel TX390 Nathan J. Carey TX390 Tiffany J. Hamm TX376 Paul M. Blahut TX354 Kolby H. Elliott TX085 Santiago A. Soto TX802 Joshua Flores TX179 Collin B. Carstens TX334 Andrew C. Martin TX409 Clinton J. Lillie TX376 Steven M. ONeil TX435 Christa L. Conroy TX390 Jonathon W. Theall TX098 James H. Schulgen TX295 Kathleen B. Deiters TX351 Adrianna Darling TX334 Thomas H. Kraft TX091 John B. Baron TX179 Keith R. Kasmarek TX179 Nataly Oropeza TX802 Shane M. Darville TX196 Caleb D. Stricklin TX085 Steven P. Hamman TX351 Sharya F. Qureshi TX179 Colton D. Anderson TX435

Amelia Earhart Award

Gus M. Rojas TX007 Jonathon W. Theall TX098 Eric N. Smith TX098 Joshua D. Vaughan TX148 Cassie A. Stephens TX413 Faith A. Brymer TX187 Rebecca M. McKinney TX214 Christopher M. Papson TX214 Andrew J. Theismann TX020

In Memoriam

Texas Wing Weathers the Weather

By Captain Arthur E. Woodgate
The Distributed Training Exercise that had been carefully planned for the weekend of 12-14 January got an unexpectedly severe blow from icing conditions. If it is true that small planes are capable of a great many tasks that larger and more expensive aircraft cannot do, they are also more vulnerable to the effects of bad weather. High winds and icy conditions are two of the worst calamities when it comes to flying small planes such as Cessna 172s and 182s. These form the backbone of the Texas Wing flying assets. Nevertheless, the Civil Air Patrol is in a state of constant alert, and by necessity must train for adversity. Over twenty different staging areas all over the State of Texas had signed up to participate in the exercise, which was to be directed by the staff assembled in the Incident Command Post in Dallas. Of these staging areas, over half were put out of business by ice when the morning of Saturday, January 13 rolled around. Knowing that bad weather approached quickly, 12 sorties were launched and successfully completed their assigned missions, most of them flown over the southern counties adjacent to coastal areas. Other staging areas - inland and to the north -, quick on the draw, changed their training from air to ground searches so as to be able to practice their ability to communicate solely by radio. Of the five training objectives identified for this weekend, three of them were fully met. Refinements to radio communications resulted in enhanced ability to disseminate information. Flight crews succeeded in uploading information to the master database in-flight, which was then captured for relay to the realworld client government agency. The ability to organize, authorize, report, and control missions by the use of radio communications proved successful, both for air missions and ground missions. At the beginning of the exercise, when icing and freezing rain had been forecast and seemed inevitable, the possibility of canceling the exercise was raised. On this subject, the Incident Commander, Lt Col Owen Younger, said, Airplanes seldom crash and emergencies are less likely to happen on sunny days. This is why we must train in bad weather too, provided we keep safety as a top priority. As the tasking took place, and the results began to flow in from the field, the U.S. Air Force observers and liaison officers commented that it was nice to see civilians behave as their military counterparts do, when all that CAP members had to do was call it quits and just go home. You have the right approach, was the comment.

10 Dec 1932 - 17 Mar 2007 10 Sep 1989 - 16 Nove 1991 1 Nov 2002 - 12 Sep 2003

Col Hal Parker

Texas Wing CC

Hot Air Balloon Demo . . .

Continued from page 5
canisters that he uses to keep the balloon flying. When the balloon stood up, the cadets put all their weight on the edges of the gondola, which is really a basket, while Mr. Lavorgna kept the burner going in short bursts, and that made the balloon glow like a paper lantern. It was a giant garden party, and a lot of fun. The cadets thought that the balloon was going to take off, with them still hanging on to the basket, but that didnt happen. The demonstration lasted about an hour and a half. Everybody there had a great time, the cadets thoroughly enjoyed it, they were even arguing over jobs to do with the packing up of the balloon; they all wanted to be in on it. One cadet even said that his mind was made up: now he wants to become a balloon pilot. (Photos: Capt Arthur E. Woodgate)

5
8

DSAREX Communications at Austin Bergstrom

The Apollo CS teamed up with the Kittinger Phantom SS and the Pegasus CS for the DSAREX of 16-18 February, 2007. For me, it all started when Capt Benavides and I awoke at 0300, though it took a while for me to actually wake up. To be honest, I kept nodding off, but breakfast and a quick shower did the trick. I jumped into my uniform, packed my gear, and thought, Today is gonna be a real challenge. Finally ready to roll, we drove to the Krispy Kreme at La Frontera, next to I-35, because Capt Benavides said that any extra cadets who wanted to come would meet us there that morning. There were no cadets. Never mind, said Capt Benavides, so we bought a dozen donuts and took off. About 25 minutes later we arrived at Georgetown Municipal Airport to pick up the CAP van and the radio equipment. Once there, Capt Benavides had me run through the necessary inspection categories and everything checked out, so we headed over to the hangar to retrieve the radio equipment. We loaded everything, from inter-squad radios to HF long-haul antennas, and soon were on our way to the Austin Bergstrom International Airport. When we arrived, we had trouble finding our mission post, so we stopped at the TxDOT Flight Services Building and met up with 2d Lt Nicholas Capo. Yes. This was the right place, so we confirmed with the squadron at Georgetown that we were on site. We parked the van next to one of the hangars in the rear and began surveying the area for potential setup sites. This was quite challenging, as almost all of the ground was covered with concrete. We had two options: either the grass field between the tarmac and the taxiway, or the picnic area outside the flight services site. The picnic area looked attractive: it had some scattered trees and a few tables, and we could use it. The downside was that if we needed a food or restroom break, we would have to walk all the way back through the gate and into the building. That left the field area, completely clear of obstacles, right next to the building. At first we were not sure we were allowed to set up there, but the Kittinger Phantom Squadron commander assured us that it was OK. So we drove the van into the field and began setting up the HF antenna. About five minutes later, I noticed a truck heading our way. I could tell by the logo on the door that it was airport staff. The driver pulled up next to our

By C/SrA Justin Benavides

van and Capt Benavides went over to talk to him. Then I start thinking, Oh, no! Are we in trouble with airport security now? A few minutes passed. I couldnt really tell what they were saying, because I was monitoring the radio. Then, an APD police car drove up next to the truck. Now I was getting really worried. As it turned out, we didnt have an AOA Aircraft Operations Area - badge or an escort. But in the end they let us pack up our gear and exit the field. I cant tell you how badly that could have gone. We could have been detained for hours while waiting for the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security to arrive, so we got off really easy. With that out of the way, we turned to the one option left - the picnic area. We drove out there and used what available space we had to set up the HF antenna. By then, the aircraft had already launched. At first we had some trouble joining the network, but about 10 minutes later we were fully operational. Our first contact was Camp Mabry. Eventually we contacted Kerrville Mission Base. After a while we set up a VHF antenna to improve communications with the aircraft. Things were going smoothly. But then, a of couple hours later, when Kerrville mission base decided to switch channels, we couldnt raise them any more. We managed to talk to Sphinx Net Control a few times, but after that we couldnt reach them either. We spent another couple of hours without HF radio communications. Early that afternoon, c/Amn Anna Haworth arrived and helped monitor the aircraft on the VHF radio. Eventually, we got the HF line working for a while. then lost signal again. At this point, Capt Benavides decided to contact Kerrville mission base by phone, by late afternoon. At one point, one of the flights from our staging area spotted a large smoke plume and requested that it be reported, but other than that, it was relatively quiet. About 2 hours later, both our flights landed at the airport within 30 minutes of each other - we were finally done. We checked in with Kerrville Mission Base via phone and terminated operations. We then packed up all the communication gear and swept the area for trash or unaccounted items. After that, we left ABIA on our way back to Georgetown. Overall, it was a lot of work, but it was also a really fun and eventful day. Despite some setbacks, it was a great day. 9

By C/MSgt Michael Moody

Apollo Cadets Win a First Prize in Robotics Competition

On 6 January 2007, barely into the New Year, the Apollo Composite Squadron, Group III, Texas Wing Robotics Team headed to the UT campus for the FIRST Lego Robotics Competition. They took along their official entry, support equipment, dreams and enthusiasm. They had been preparing for this event for six months. Open to children ages 14 and under, the FIRST Lego Robotics Competition is known for its tough standards and highly competitive participants. FIRST is a great acronym (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) for this nationwide program, but it hardly describes the spirit of do-or-die that the young teams bring with them to the arena. No blood is spilled, but it is truly a contest to the death, where the young teams meet their opponents just before they have to produce their best effort. For this, careful preparation and a well laid out plan seems to work best. The best teams can work well and efficiently even under pressure. When they got to the staging area where the competing teams could work on their robot before each run, the Apollo cadets were amazed at some of the robot designs that other teams had brought along. They were all young, but this wasnt going to be a kids game. And the list of events matched the seriousness of the competition. The first thing on the agenda was a teamwork challenge, an event for which the cadets Civil Air Patrol training had prepared them quite well, so they completed it with little trouble. When they got done with that exercise, they immediately started to test their robot, getting it (and themselves) ready for the competitions first run. Even though a couple of cadets had stayed up most of the night before, working very hard to finish the programs, there were still a few glitches that needed to be worked out. The robot is in fact a mobile computer, and it must operate according to the programs that drive it. It was up to the cadets to write the programs, load them, and make sure that they got the hardware to do what was required - as defined by the competitions task rules. When it came time for their first round, the cadets had not completely fixed all of the problems they had encountered, but they had run out of time. It was their turn to have a go of it anyway. They crossed their fingers and let Amanda, their computer-driven robot, take her bows and do her dance. Fortunately, no singing was required. Amandas first run didnt go very well, and the cadets really wanted to work on the robot some more, but they couldnt because they had to give a presentation on Nano Technology, which is what the competition was all about. The presentation went very well with just a few minor flaws, but the cadets werent worried about that at all. What they really wanted to do was go back and work on the robot to prepare it for the next run. They knew that now they had fallen behind, and playing catch-up is a lot harder than doing it right on the first run. The second run went much better, but they still needed to do more work. And once again they couldnt work on the robot because they had something else they needed to do. They had to give there technical presentation, which involves their telling some judges how they built their robot and why they did it that way. They had not prepared very hard for this presentation, because they Continued . . . 11

Robotics Competition . . .
Continued
thought that the robot would speak for itself, and it seemed to do just that. The cadets were now very excited because they knew they had done well. But they had no time for celebrations, because Amanda needed to be worked on! At long last it was time for the final run. The cadets had fixed all the programming problems, but when they ran her, Amanda still wasnt good enough to beat her second run. Thats when the cadets knew they hadnt won, but they were still glad that they had been able to attend and participate in the event. No matter what, it had been a wonderful learning opportunity. When the tally was in, and the rankings were announced, they hadnt fared too badly: they got 18th place for the Robotics Competition, in a field of 30 entries. But they still had a chance at a trophy for one of the other three categories: Presentation, Teamwork, or Technical Design. Most of the cadets didnt think that they had been good enough to get a trophy at all, so after they had gone down to the stage to get their participation medal that is the first thing they give out at the awards ceremony, they put on their jackets and sat down with the crowd. From then on, they would be there for the fun of it, so they just cheered on the other teams who were winning the awards. The cadets were not sad or angry, but they all knew that they would try harder the following year. About half-way through the awards ceremony, the announcer got to the winners in the Technical Design category, and some of the cadets started getting excited because they thought that they might have a chance to win third or even second place. So they paid attention eagerly. The announcer called out the third place winner, and it wasnt the Apollo team. Some of the cadets started losing hope of getting any tr o p h y a t a l l , a n d w h e n t h e announcer named the second place winner and it still wasnt Apollo, the cadets lost hope altogether. Then the announcer started describing the robot of the first place winning team, and to some of the cadets it began to sound awfully familiar. Then the announcer called out the team number, and most of the cadets didnt realize that it was their number, and that they had won. Then, as a cadet started to say, Hey, thats ours. the announcer said clearly, in a voice that sounded like sweet thunder from Heaven, the Apollo Composite Squadron. The cadets were stunned, and it took some heartbeats before they realized that it was true, that they had won a major trophy. Not just any trophy, but first place in the Technical Design competition. It was a coveted and prestigious prize. They were so proud of themselves that they could hardly stop smiling and grinning, as now it was their turn for the other teams to cheer them all the way to the stage. It was the closest to sheer joy they had ever come. And next year theyll try harder. The cadets on the team were: Erica Condrey, Cameron Condrey, Joshua Nolte, Michael Nolte, Jon Kokel, Jonathan Miller, Anna Haworth, and Michael Moody (team captain). They all had a great time, and later agreed that it had been a wonderful experience. At the squadrons next meeting, the cadets presented the trophy they had earned to the squadron commander, 1st Lt Cheri Fischler. The cadets want to give a special thanks to the team coaches: Mr. Johnny Miler, Ms. Joann Nolte, and 2d Lt Sue Kristoffersen (who took the photos).

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Pegasus Squadron Awards Ceremony

2d Lt Russ Corley
On December 2, 2006 the Pegasus Composite Squadron held its annual awards ceremony. At 11:00 the squadron mustered for the beginning of the ceremony. There was an outstanding turnout of family and friends to celebrate the achievements of the unit. Lunch was served at 11:30 and the ambiance was provided by a volunteer string quartet and a slideshow of activities that the unit had participated in over the course of the year. As the cadets and senior members watched the show they reflected on the many positive experiences and memories. 1st Lt Robin Pope, master of ceremonies, began the event at precisely 1230 and after thanking the many parents and family members for their support introduced the recipients of the General Billy Mitchell awards, Cadet Katie Deiters and Cadet Steven Hamman. The Mitchell has been in existence since 1964 and honors the late Brigadier General Billy Mitchell, aviation pioneer, advocate, and staunch supporter of an independent Air Force for America. This award which is earned after passing an arduous 100 question examination on testing leadership theory and aerospace topics is required for promotion to cadet 2d Lt. Since its inception over 42,000 cadets have earned this honor. After Lt Popes introduction the cadets took their position of honor on the stage. Cadet First Sergeant Stewart brought the room to attention and the Pegasus Squadron award winning color guard posted the colors. After an excellent rendition of the national anthem by the string quartet, Lt Ford led the room in an opening prayer. Lt Ford then
Lt Jaeger receives Crossfield Award.

Col Tony West, Texas Air National Guard

spoke of the historical impact of the Civil Air Patrol and of the 64 CAP members who lost their lives defending American shores during World War II. The audience gave their respects with a moment of silence. The master of ceremonies then introduced the Commander of Pegasus Composite Squadron, Lt Daren Jaeger. Lt Jaeger spoke of the successes of the squadron in the three primary missions of CAP. Through the cadet programs we have developed members who are now attending the USAF Academy (Cadet Lt French) and are participating in programs such as the Corp at Texas A&M (Cadet Lt Glenn) and the ROTC at the University of Texas (Cadet Lt Pope). In operations the squadron served on 5 USAF missions and improved our operational readiness through a 3 day field training exercise. Finally in Aerospace Education our AEO Lt Mark Van Es (assisted by Lt Arnold) led us to our 3rd successful completion of the AEX award. Lt Jaeger then introduced our distinguished guest Col Tony West, Chief of Staff for the Texas Air National Guard. Col West directed his comments to cadet Deiters and Cadet Hamman and shared his experiences at becoming an officer. He shared the realization of the added responsibility and commitment to duty that an officer must uphold at all times. Col West spoke of the new challenges that the cadets will face where the danger is not as clearly defined as a front line or a beach head but will be disguised within a population. The Col expressed his confidence that as we move into a new era of challenges that the CAP is providing the background and training in leadership to meet that challenge. Then came the awards. This year the Pegasus Composite Squadron participated in the International Air Cadet Exchange program (IACE) and hosted cadets from Sweden, Austrailia, New Zealand and the Canada. In recognition of those families who hosted the cadets Lt Col King presented the IACE Awards to Chris Arnold,

Bradley Cilino, JD Draper, Debbie French, Mark Petrosky, Dick Pope, Rickey Pope and Susie Shockley. General Chuck Yeager Award: Senior Member Donna Arnold, Lt John Meiners, Senior Member Gordon Lofland, Lt Chris Arnold A. Scott Crossfield Award: Lt Daren Jaeger Red Service Award: Raphel Eire, Jessica Shockley, Liz West, Michael Joseph Devine (5yrs) Command Service Ribbon: Lt Daren Jaeger Recruiter: Steven Hamman Encampment Award: Raphael Eire (1st Award), Steven Hamman (3rd Award) Wright Brothers Certificates: Rachel Ball, David Hamman, Herakles Boardman, Steven Hamman, Andrew Bos, Ryan Pope, Bradley Cilino, Andrew Raymond, Kathleen Deiters, Caleb Smith, Raphael Erie, Sean Stewart First Flight Certificates : Rand Fowler, Deion Odom, Sean Stewart Orientation Ride Completion: Rachel Ball, Steven Hamman, Boy Scouts of America Awards Bronze Award: Marcus Bialkowski, Steven Hamman, Kyle Morris Emergency Preparedness Award: Marcus Bialkowski, Richard Pope Jr., Joseph Devine, Jessica Shockley, Raphael Erie, Caleb Smith, Steven Hamman, Sean Stewart, Kyle Morris. Lt Jaeger then took the stage for a few special awards. Cadet Bradley Cilino was recognized for distinguishing himself as Honor Cadet at the Texas Wing Officer Training School. Cadet Steven Hamman was recognized for completion of the National Blue Beret encampment. Lt Jaeger then awarded the Senior and Cadet Officers of the year to Maj Pope and Cadet Hamman respectively. The Mitchell Ceremony began with a slide show for each cadet representing a short life history. In a short five minutes it gave us a peek of how these cadets got from birth to where they are today. The pictures which were provided by the parents were both interesting and amusing. They were interesting in that they gave insight to the character of the cadets outside of their CAP roles and amusing because some of the shots were very much out of their CAP roles. Each cadet gave a short speech on CAP core values. Cadet Deiters spoke of integrity and volunteer service. Integrity is more than simple honesty. You are who you are when you are alone. And with

Cadets Hamman & Deiters

regard to volunteer service Cadet Deiters said it reflects the very essence of the organization service to humanity. Cadet Hamman spoke of excellence and respect. Excellence is the core value that reflects CAPs continuous effort to be the very best, and to consistently improve its humanitarian service to America. Hamman described respect in this way it is extremely important that members treat each other with fairness and dignity, and work together as a team. To do otherwise would seriously impair CAPs capability to accomplish the mission. The cadets were then asked if they understood and were willing to commit to the Cadet Officers pledge and answered a resounding I am. Deputy Commander of Cadets Lt Col French certified that Cadet Deiters and Cadet Hamman have held leadership positions in the squadron for the past 18 months. It is with pride that I certify that these cadets are deserving of this award and rank Lt Col French concluded. The Cadet Commander Cilino then addressed Cadet Deiters and Cadet Hamman on the four responsibilities of a Cadet Officer; honor, loyalty, courage and service. Master of ceremonies, if these candidates are willing and eager to accept the mantle of responsibility, as well as the honor of the rank insignia, then I request that you proceed to administer the presentation of the Mitchell Award. The candidates stood and recited the Officers pledge and were welcomed into the Officer Corps of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. Pegasus Squadron Commander 1st Lt Daren Jaeger said, It has been an honor to command and serve the squadron over the last year. For the last three years we have had three Gen. Billy Mitchell cadets and this year they have done it again. We have so many gifted and talented cadets who are looking to secure a brighter future for us all. We have to equip our cadets with not only plan A, but also with plan B, and C. This is the next generation that will lead us into the future and we want to ensure they have the skills to get us to tomorrow. 5 15

Pegasus Composite Squadron Hosts BSA Merit Badge Workshop

1st Lt Daren Jaeger
Pegasus Squadron, part of Group III, Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol, hosted a Boy Scouts of America Merit Badge Workshop last October 28, providing the setting for excellent cooperation and understanding between CAP cadets and BSA scouts. Thirteen scouts from the Capitol Area Council attended and earned merit badges in Aviation, Space Exploration, First Aid, Disaster Relief and Communications. The BSA Council was extremely grateful, since training for these Eagle Scout-required courses is normally hard to find. Pegasus Squadron, a Civil Air Patrol unit, is dual-chartered as BSA Venture Crew 351. During the Aviation portion of the workshop, scouts visited the Texas Military Forces Museum on Camp Mabry as part of their badge requirements. At the museum they saw an aircrafts rotary engine up close, as well as a cutaway view of a jet engine. They truly enjoyed seeing the cockpits of an F-16 and the L10, imagining themselves pilots of these aircraft. During the tour, a few museum visitors attached themselves to the tour. Later they told us, Thank you for the guided tour. You really made the history come alive! The Space Exploration module gave scouts an opportunity to build model rockets and create a card about a famous space explorer. Since the tasks requirements for scouting are similar to those for CAP cadets, the latter also took advantage of the opportunity to finish Phase II of CAPs model rocketry program. CAP cadet officers acted as mentors to the group, completing their own progression requirements as Aerospace Education mentors. The First Aid portion of the merit badge workshop presented many practical situations that tested the scouts skills. Many CAP cadets needed this training in order to complete their Ground Team 3 qualification, and scouts needed it to complete that merit badge. Both got hands-on training in how to bandage head and eye injuries, broken arms, and littercarry (making a litter with logs and a blanket, and carrying the injured person to safety). The Communications badge training came with an aviation twist, as students watched a video on radio communications in an airplane. They saw first-hand how critical it is to speak clearly and accurately when communicating with the airport control tower. This was an exciting and rewarding event for everyone. Not only did CAP cadets finish progression requirement, ground

team requirements and requirements for their Venture Crew Bronze awards, but BSA scouts completed critical requirements for their Eagle Scout award. The day was a total success and everyone went home with a sense of accomplishment. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) maintains the worlds largest fleet (550) of single-engine, piston aircraft, as well as the Nations most extensive communications network. Through aerospace education, glider and powered orientation flights, flight training scholarships, and cadet programs, CAP serves its nearly 57,000 members, Americas youth, and the public at large. CAP performs 95% of all inland search and rescue in the U.S., as tasked by the U.S. Air Force. CAP also flies aerial reconnaissance missions for homeland security, as well as disaster-relief and damage assessment operations. CAP transports time-sensitive medical material, and flies counterdrug missions for homeland security. For more information about Pegasus Composite Squadron on Camp Mabry in Austin, TX please visit http:// www.pegasuscap.org. 5 17

Group III Cadet Newest Spaatz Awardee

By Captain Arthur E. Woodgate, PAO, Group III
Cadet Finn entered into the exclusive world of Spaatz awardees on 23 August 2006, becoming the first member of the Bell County Composite Squadron to achieve the rank of Cadet/ Colonel. This significant milestone in a young and vigorous life was no accident. The recipient of numerous academic, leadership, and emergency services awards, she was selected as an International Air Cadet Exchange ambassador to Canada in 2003 and Australia in 2004. She was also the Texas Wing 2004 Summer Encampment Cadet Commander, a position of responsibility usually entrusted to a male cadet. After graduating salutatorian of the Belton H.S. Class of 2004, she received a Presidential Scholarship to attend American University in Washington, where she is a senior majoring in Literature and Philosophy. She also earned scholarships from the Civil Air Patrol and several local organizations. Currently studying abroad at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy, she will be attending University College in Dublin during the Spring, 2007 semester before returning to A.U. for her final year of undergraduate studies. Annas father - Michael P. Finn - is a former CAP cadet and has been active as a senior member of the squadron until his military duties intervened. A lawyer, he is a colonel in the US Army Reserve and a member of a Civil Affairs unit. He was deployed to Hungary as part of the Bosnia Peacekeeping forces, Kuwait/Iraq in 2003, and Afghanistan in 2005. He works in Fort Hood as a civilian who served in Korea and Vietnam and retired as commander of Forces Command, a 4-star posting. Gen Shoemaker graduated from West Point in 1946, went through aviator training in 1960, and spent an entire career in Army Aviation. A persuasive and gentle leader, Gen Shoemaker achieved excellence through motivation, serving as a model and inspiration to all those around him. After retirement, he continued to serve the community in elective office. The Killeen I.S.D. named its latest school after him, and he has been inducted in the U.S. Army Operational Testers Hall of Fame and the Army Aviation Hall of Fame. In 1994 he received the Frank W. Mayborn Humanitarian Award. Present for the occasion were Col R. Frank Eldridge, Texas Wing Commander, and Maj Patrick L. Benoit, Group III Commander, both of whom arrived at Temples Draughton-Miller Airport in Maj Benoits Beechcraft Baron. Lt Col Spurlock started the event by introducing 2d Lt John Pravel, who in turn introduced Cadet Finn and asked whether Col Eldridge would like to say a few words, which he did. Addressing himself to Cdt Finn and her parents, he congratulated her on a brilliant cadet career, wished her the best of luck in her chosen field, and hoped that she would always retain her spirit of volunteerism and service to the community. These sentiments were then Continued . . . 19

attached to the III Corps. Annas brother Jim, a former CAP cadet and Eagle Scout, has been serving in the Texas Army National Guard for the past four years and is an ROTC cadet at Texas State. It took almost five months to organize the right ceremony and select the attendees and persons of high rank that would do justice to Cdt Finns performance. Now part of the estimated 1% of CAP cadets that reach this level of achievement, she is still the same easy-going but intense young person who drove herself relentlessly towards her goals after joining the Civil Air Patrol in 1999. Lt Col Richard Spurlock, squadron commander, a retired U.S. Army aviator, once worked for General Robert M. Shoemaker

(Left to Right) Maj Chris Harcrow, Deputy Commander for Seniors; Lt Col Lou Thomas, Squadron Commander; C/2d Lt Kolby Elliot; C/2d Lt Caleb Stricklin; C/1st Lt Joshua Jenkins; C/2d Lt Emmett Koen; 1st Lt Robert Smith, Deputy Commander for Cadets; Lt Col Wilber Dixon; Judge Sam Griffith, 12th Court of Appeals; and Lt Col Owen Younger, Commander of Group III, Texas Wing.

Roberts Raiders CS Holds Quadruple Mitchell Ceremony

By C/TSgt Josiah Niedrauer
The Roberts Raiders Composite Squadron, Group III, presented a General Billy Mitchell Award to each of the following four cadets: Emmett Koen, Joshua Jenkins, Caleb Stricklin and Kolby Elliot. The General Billy Mitchell Award, which has existed since 1964, honors the late Brigadier General Billy Mitchell, aviation pioneer, advocate, and staunch supported of an independent Air Force for America. The Mitchell Award is earned after a cadet completes the first eight achievements of the Civil Air Patrols cadet program. In addition, the cadet must pass a comprehensive 100-question 20

examination covering leadership theory and aerospace topics. Only 15% of all Civil Air Patrol cadets earn this honor. Upon earning the Mitchell award, the cadet is automatically promoted to the grade of Cadet Second Lieutenant. This is an important rite of passage for cadets, marking their entry into cadet officer ranks. Therefore, presentation of the certificates merits a special ceremony in the presence of the unit membership and their families. Since preparing this presentation ceremony takes time, one of the cadets receiving the certificate had already achieved the next higher cadet office grade.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Spaatz Award . . .
Continued
repeated, in various ways, by Col Finn - Cadet Finns father. In introducing Gen Shoemaker, Lt Col Spurlock remarked in an aside, So here we are, general - working together once again. To which the general replied, without missing a beat, Yes, and youre telling me what to do, as you used to do back then. His warm and kind smile gave the audience a glimpse at a well-remembered and fruitful previous relationship, built in a far sterner and less forgiving military world. After the congratulatory remarks, Col and Mrs. Finn placed the new ranks shoulder boards on their daughters shoulders. Now wearing her new rank of Cadet/Colonel, Cadet Finn faced Gen Shoemaker, who presented her Spaatz Award certificate with glowing and gentle remarks, then playfully added, Now, give us a hug. Whereupon Cadet Finn gave him a quick, tight, and brief embrace that took the general by complete surprise. Smiles were everywhere, including Col Finns parents. Cadet Finn attributed her success to the good example and encouragement she received from her older brother, now an ROTC cadet. She referred to her award as a matter of personal satisfaction, rather than a competition with her peers. She then thanked all those who had mentored her, and who had let her mentor them. Lt Col Spurlock ended the ceremony by telling those present, Please help yourselves to the cake and drinks served at the back of the room. Mind you, I dont want to have to take any of it back with me... 5

Cadet Lillie receives the General Billy Mitchell Award from Chaplain (Lt Col) Nancy Smalley, a member of the squadron staff and Texas Wing Chaplain, as his father Dale watches on proudly.

Lieutenant Colonel Owen L. Younger, commander of Group III, Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol, congratulates Cadet Tiffany Hamm after presentation of the General Billy Mitchell Award and promotion to Second Lieutenant. In the background, Chaplain (Lt Col) Nancy Smalley, the Texas Wing Chaplain.

Waxahachie Talon Cadets Earns Mitchell Award

By Lt Col Gary Stevens Photos Capt Jane Smalley
Cadets Clinton Lillie and Tiffany Hamm, members of the Waxahachie Talon Composite Squadron, Group III, recently received the General Billy Mitchell Award and their new rank of Cadet Second Lieutenant. Cadet Lillie is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Lillie of Midlothian, and Cadet Ham is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Reed of Ennis. The cadets received their awards during promotion ceremonies for the Waxahachie Talon Composite Squadron at WaxahachieMidlothian Midway Airport. Cadet Lillie joined the Civil Air Patrol in October 2003 and has participated in a variety of activities and training opportunities such as summer encampment, Ground Search and Rescue School, Non-Commissioned Officer School, Flight Line Marshaller training, and Bivouac training exercises. His qualifications include Urban Direction Finding and Search and Rescue ground team member, as well as Mission Radio Operator. He is a Junior at Midlothian High School and is part of the drum line in the High School Band. Cadet Hamm joined the Civil Air Patrol in February 2005 and has participated in a variety of activities and training opportunities, such as winter and summer encampments, Non-Commissioned Officer School, Flight Line Marshaller training, and bivouac training exercises. Her qualifications include Urban Direction Finding and Search and Rescue ground team member, as well as Flight Line Marshaller. She is home-schooled and a sophomore in high school. Her mother, First Lieutenant Jonnie Reed, is also an active adult member of the Waxahachie Talon Composite Squadron. The Mitchell is an important rite of passage for Civil Air Patrol cadets, marking their entry into cadet officer ranks. For the purposes of assessment for college admission, this rates at the same level as the Boy Scouts Eagle Award, that organizations highest level of promotion. CAP cadets, however, can earn even higher promotion, up to the grade of Cadet Colonel, an achievement that often merits appointment to one or more of the US Service Academies. 21

Cadet/2d Lt Brandon Maso explains to a student how CAP uses the Cessna 172 for search and rescue efforts.

Cadet/Lt Col Lauren Ostrov, Cadet/2d Lt Christa Conroy, and Maj Scott McCleneghan showing one of the Cadet Program displays.

DFW Airport Hosts 2000 Students at the Third Annual Aviation & Transportation Career Expo
By Maj Sherry Coffey Photos by Laura Lee Woodward, 1st Lt, CAP
Civil Air Patrols Addison Eagles Squadron and Dallas Squadron joined together to provide displays for students at Dallas Fort Worth International Airports Annual Aviation & Transportation Career Expo. The Expo gives students the opportunity to learn about careers in a variety of aviation related fields, from pilots to air traffic controllers to police officers and fire fighters. The Expo is staged at one of American Airlines maintenance hangars at DFW. CAP members from both squadrons worked tirelessly, devoting time and energy to answering questions and talking directly with a continuous line of students and teachers filing by the displays. The CAP displays consisted of two static aircraft outside the hangar and a booth inside the hander that depicted cadets participating in various activities. Cadets working at the displays recounted first-hand experiences for the students and provided brochures about the Cadet Program. More than 30 agencies, companies and organizations, including the Ninety-nines, Civil Air Patrol, Air National Guard, and LockheedMartin were present. During Captain Stephen Hundley explains the instrument their visit to panel on the GA-8 Airvan to area students. DFW, students were given a look at many different type aircraft, such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon, OH-58 Kiowa helicopter, C-130H Hercules military transport, a vintage Corsair and North American AT-6. Students were provided the opportunity to talk to Civil Air Patrol pilots and sit inside the Gippsland GA8 Airvan and Cessna 172 search and rescue aircraft. Ken Capps, vice president of public affairs at DFW, said, We are very pleased that so many teachers take the time out of their schedules to bring their students out and for so many great organizations and businesses to provide hands-on experience. In some cases, it may be the first time a young person has been around an airplane or at the Airport. The annual DFW Expo provides Civil Air Patrol with the rewarding opportunity to introduce students and teachers to our three missions: The Cadet Program, Aerospace Education and Search and Rescue. 23

U.S. Congressman Joe Barton Visits Crusader Composite Squadron

By 2d Lt Robert Severance III
U.S. Congressman Joe Barton was the guest of honor at the Crusader CS meeting on 20 February. The congressman addressed himself to the cadets, explaining the requirements for obtaining congressional appointment to the United States Air Force Academy and other U.S. Service Academies. Congressman Barton also spoke to the squadron about the war against terrorism and how important it is to support our troops in Iraq. He also expressed his thanks for the volunteer efforts of Civil Air Patrol members. With the squadrons thanks, Lt Col Roy Hill, squadron commander, presented the guest of honor with a squadron patch.
Congressman Barton holds his Crusader patch, surrounded by squadron members.

Crusader Composite Squadron Member Makes Waves in Space Circles

At the 13th Annual Space Exploration Educators Conference, 9 February 2007, Capt James Hein, Jr. gave a presentation on Incorporating Aerospace Education in the Classroom. and school teachers were presented with hands on activities from the Aerospace Education books. This session included lessons on ratio distance between the Earth and the Moon, including an exercise in measuring the altitude of an Alka-Seltzer rocket. Teachers were given AEM brochures and information regarding CAP material to use in their classroom. Capt Hein, an Aerospace Education Officer from Grand Prairies Crusader Squadron and a teacher at Sam Houston HS in Arlington, was selected out of teachers from all over the world to speak at the 13th Annual Space Exploration Educators Conference at Space Center Houston. Attending the sessions were Major Bjorn Sundet Texas Wing DE, Susan Mallett School Enrichment Program Manager National Headquarters and teacher representing school districts from the state, national, and world wide level. It is important that we stress the importance of Aerospace Education to our teachers so they can inspire our youths to pursue this amazing field, says Capt Hein. 25

C/TSgt Johanna Cohen, C/A1C Forrest Brown, C/A1C Tim Kleinmeier, C/Capt Rebecca McKinney, and C/A1C Rachel Scarborough carry the colors for the event.

By 2d Lt Kelly Castillo

Black Sheep Squadron Part of Dallas Veterans Day Parade

On 11 November 2006, three Black Sheep Composite Squadron cadets from the Mesquite Civil Air Patrol proudly carried the colors for the 88th Annual Dallas Veterans Day Parade. The Black Sheep CS honor guards included C/TSgt Johanna Cohen, C/A1C Tim Kleinmeier, and C/ Capt Rebecca McKinney. Two members of the Waxahachie Talon Composite Squadron, C/ A1C Forrest Brown and C/A1C Rachel Scarborough, also participated in the honor guard. People started cheering as we walked by with the flags, said C/Capt McKinney. The event paid special honor to the heroes wounded in defense of our nation and its freedom. Because cadets from other squadrons were present at the parade, C/SSgt Andrew Smith, also with the Black Sheep CS, led their march carrying the unit guidon. As is customary, the parade marked Armistice Day which began on 11 November 1918, when the guns of World War I fell silent across Europe. In 1926, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation, inviting all Americans to recognize the courageous men and women who had placed their lives in harms way for our country. Marching in the parade was awesome, said C/TSgt Cohen, I was a part of something bigger than me. C/A1C Kleinmeier added, Last year, I almost got to carry the flags, but we didnt have enough people. Im glad I finally got to, this year.

C/Capt Rebecca McKinney helps C/A1C Scarborough get ready for the parade.

Black Sheep Cadets Turn Training Into Successful Mission

By 1st Lt Kelly Castillo
On 17 February 2007, members of the Black Sheep Composite Squadron, part of Group III, Texas Wing, Civil Air Patrol, took part in a Search and Rescue Exercise, SAREX. Participants included 1st Lt Opal McKinney, SM Jerry Barron, C/Amn Kasee Niskern, C/TSgt Andrew Smith, C/A1C Tim Kleinmeier, C/MSgt Johanna Cohen, and C/A1C Andy Papson. The training included four exercises essential to conducting a successful rescue. The first was a ramp check. The cadets were given information about a plane that was considered overdue, said 1st Lt McKinney. They were to thoroughly check the Mesquite Metro Airport for a specific planes tail number. Next, they conducted a missing person exercise. Cadets were told that a four year old child had last been seen at the Mesquite

SM Barron, C/MSgt Cohen, C/Capt McKinney, and C/A1C Kleinmeier proudly pose in front of the helicopter that had the malfunctioning ELT.

Metro Airport. The cadets were then to locate any evidence of this hypothetical child in the area. A doll - representing the missing child - had been placed in a nearby lightly wooded area for the cadets to locate. Afterwards, an aircraft emergency locator transmitter (ELT) simulator was hidden in a hangar. The cadets were to locate its beacon using various electronic means. Following this, a physically demanding test was conducted - the cadets were to carry a 100-pound pack on a stretcher, over obstacles, without losing the patient. As a final task, a few of the cadets took part in mission radio training, which was supervised by 1st Lt Toby Buckalew, the Group III Communications Officer. Little did the squadron members suspect that an actual mission would be assigned just three days later, on 20 February 2007. At 4:45 a.m., 1st Lt Opal McKinney was notified that a satellite had picked up an ELTs distress beacon. By 5:12 a.m., within an hour of the alert, 1st Lt McKinney, SM Barron,
The cadets prepare to safely carry a 100 pound pack through an obstacle course.

C/MSgt Cohen, C/A1C Kleinmeier, and C/Capt Rebecca McKinney proceeded to the coordinates they had been given, near White Rock Lake. Using the procedures they had practiced less than a week earlier, they quickly realized that the signal was coming from a different location, so they expanded the search area. They soon determined that the signal was coming from Dallas Love Field Airport. Upon identifying themselves at the airport, they were escorted onto the aircraft parking area to identify the source of the signal, which was coming from a helicopter used for medical transport. The aircrew had been unaware that the ELT had malfunctioned and was sending out the distress signal, a condition that some times is caused by a hard landing. SM Barron commented later, The crew was very appreciative, knowing that somebody out there was looking after them. For their successful efforts, all team members earned the Civil Air Patrols Find Ribbon, which was a first award in the case of SM Barron and C/A1C Kleinmeier. It is unusual for members to earn the ribbon so soon after completing training. SM Barron had recently completed his Urban Direction Finding training during the SAREX exercise. 27

Waco CLC Challenges Members

By Capt Robert Benton
Seven Civil Air Patrol members from six Texas Wing units participated in the Corporate Leaning Course held in Waco, Texas on Jan 20 21. CAP members Capt Steve Manley, HQ Group III; 2d Lt Choya Shanahan, Tyler Composite Squadron; Capt John Boyd and Capt William Wilson, Waco Composite Squadron; Capt William Braden, Bell Co. Composite Squadron; 1st Lt Penny Brady, Texas State Guard Flight and 1st Lt Scott Singleton, Sulphur Springs Composite Squadron participated in the two-day course. A course designed to introduce the functions and reasonabilitys of Wings and National Headquarters as it relates to the units, a requirement for promotion to Major and the Loening professional development award. Students where encouraged to ask questions and even participate in discussions and hands-on activities, contributing to the sections of CAP history, Command, Operations, Mission Support, Inspector General, Cadet Programs, Aerospace Education and the Drug Demand Reduction program. The information covered in the course was put to the test with the students working on a group project selected by Maj Alan OMartin, Waco CLC Director. The group project consisted of writing a press release announcing a fatal CAP aircraft incident with the loss of an aircrew during a search and rescue mission, where the students were challenged to apply CAP core values.

Gregg County CS Cadets Waco CS Promoted Hosts Parents

By SM Tracy Hollinshead

Night

By Capt Robert Benton

On January 29th the Waco Composite Squadron hosted a Parents Night with representatives from the United States Naval Academy, West Point and the United States Air Force Academy in attendance. The event was held for Waco cadets and their families to highlight the educational and officer commissioning opportunities available to CAP cadets at the three military academies. Guest presenters included Basil and Margaret Thomson representing the U. S. Naval Academy, Dr. Ray Bagby representing West Point and Baylor Military Science professor Colonel Danny Leonard representing the U. S. Air Force Academy. Each representative outlined their particular academy from the parents and educators perspective. The event was held at Waco Regional Airport in a hangar housing The Spirit of Waco, an A-26 WWII bomber owned and maintained by the Commemorative Air Force and assigned to the Ranger Wing in Waco. The warbird served as a backdrop and inspiration for the 25 participants at the event. The evening included a dinner provided by families of the CAP members, and concluded with the IMAX film, Fighter Pilot, which inspired the attendees to aim higher. 29

(Back row) Maj Gerry Davis Deputy Commander for Cadets, and 1st Lt Steve Schluter, Squadron Commander. (Front row) Cadets Elizabeth Camp, Kayla Cassel, Ryan Cobb and Zachary Whiteley

The Gregg County Composite Squadron promoted four cadet members during simple ceremonies at two recent squadron meetings. 1st Lt Steve Schluter, Squadron Commander, and Maj Gerry Davis, Deputy Commander for Cadets, made official presentations as follows. On November 21, 2006 Zachary Whiteley of Longview was promoted to C/ CMSgt. On December 5, 2006 Elizabeth Camp of Longview was promoted to C/CMSgt, and Kayla Cassel of Longview and Ryan Cobb of Diana were promoted to C/A1C.

Honoring Col Joe W. Kittinger, USAF, Ret

By Capt Arthur E. Woodgate and Capt John Craparo
Last year, the Phantom SS obtained authorization to change its name to Col Joe W. Kittinger Phantom Senior Squadron, honoring a man who is a legend in his own time, but hadnt had a chance to thank him for lending his name to the squadron. Finally, the day had arrived, and the recognition was about to take place. The day began with a tour of the Texas State History museum, arranged by SM Jim Darwin. Jerry Drake, the Deputy Commissioner of the Texas Archives & Records for the Texas Land Office, led a two-hour tour for Col Kittinger and his wife Sherry. Official hosts for the event were Captains Steve Barclay and Joe Chasnoff. The Kittingers, quite excited about the tour, enjoyed a private viewing in the archives where they had the rare opportunity of seeing an original draft of the Texas State Constitution, written in Sam Houstons own hand. Later in the afternoon Joe met informally with squadron members and visiting cadets to talk about his career and answer their questions, a session that lasted until guests began to arrive for the formal ceremony at 7 pm. After the guests of honor had taken their place at the podium, and the Pegasus Composite Squadron Color Guard had presented the colors, Capt John Craparo, the squadron PAO, called on 1st Lt Debbie Ford who pronounced the invocation. Capt Craparo then started the event, with a short summary of Joes many accomplishments. Mr. F. J. Jay Joseph, Director, Flight Services Aviation Division, Texas Dept. of Transportation, expressed his gratitude to Joe for his pioneering efforts and contributions to aviation. He then thanked the squadron for all the good work they do, in close cooperation with the TXDOT. Col Ed Brown, Texas State Director and a staunch supporter of the Civil Air Patrol, marveled at Joes courage in jumping off the truly deep end, when others had tried it before and perished in the attempt. Major Dan Williams, squadron commander, expressed his personal gratitude for the privilege of including Col Kittingers name in the name of the squadron. Naming the squadron after you, Joe, he said, is a great honor. It will be a constant

L-R Col Joe W. Kittinger and Maj Dan Williams, squadron commander.

inspiration to us all, and those who follow us. In addressing the warm and eager audience, Col Kittinger told his story along broad lines. In the 1950s, as planes flew faster and higher than ever before, the Air Force started worrying about air crew safety in case of catastrophic equipment failure and the need to eject. Would the human body survive a high-altitude, high-speed jump off a doomed airplane? The then-Captain Joe Kittinger, a fighter jet pilot, volunteered to test a new multi-stage parachute, the main task for which Project Excelsior was created. Col Kittinger explained that a major problem in escaping from a high-altitude vehicle is that in freefall, it is very easy to enter into an uncontrollable spin, and opening the parachute while in a spin often results in the subjects death, one way or another. Mr. Francis Beaupre, a technician at Wright Field, OH, developed a multi-stage parachute system that, eventually, became the standard. It used a very small parachute to stabilize the free-fall, until it was safe to open the main chute for descent through the atmosphere. A series of high-altitude jumps led to Joes record-setting jump off a balloon gondola at 102,800 feet, or nearly 20 miles up. The entire descent, including free-fall and parachute descent, took 13 minutes and 45 seconds, still the highest parachute jump in history. During his descent, Joe reached or exceeded the speed of sound (measurements were uncertain on this point). This story is told in Joes book The Long Lonely Leap. He also wrote The Pre-Astronauts as Project Excelsior pioneered much Continued . . . 31

Honoring Kittinger . . .
Continued
of the technology later used by NASA in the exploration of space. If they had used our research and the Challenger astronauts had been given our chute, they would have had a chance, said Col Joe Kittinger with a sorrowful smile. Joe Kittinger set many world records in his career: a.. Highest parachute jump - 102,800 ft, 16 Aug 1960. b.. Longest Parachute Free-fall - 4 min 36 sec, 16 Aug 1960. c.. First man to exceed the speed of sound without an aircraft or space vehicle - 714 mph during free-fall, 16 Aug 1960. d.. Most High Altitude Balloon Flights (5): Man High I, 96,000 ft; Excelsior I, 76,000 ft; Excelsior II, 75,000 ft; Excelsior III, 102,800 ft; and Stargazer, 86,000 ft. e.. Longest distance flown in a 1,000 cubic meter helium balloon - 2001 miles in 72 hrs (AA6 & AA7), 15-18 Nov 1983, a solo flight. f.. Longest distance flown in a 3,000 cubic meter helium balloon - 3543 miles in 86 hrs (AA10, 11, 12, 13), 14-18 Sep 1984. g.. First person to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in a helium balloon - Maine to Italy, 1418 Sep 1984. h.. NAA Speed Record - Piper Cheyenne 400 LS, Philadelphia, PA to Orlando, FL, 9 Feb 1986. The honors followed. The squadron presented him with a commemorative plaque. The Texas Senate drafted a special proclamation that was approved on the senate floor and was now presented to Col Joe Kittinger by Tim Vilasanna, representing Senator Van De Putte. The Honorable Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, also sent in a signed certificate of recognition tinged with humor - presented by Capt John Craparo. Col Joe Kittinger proved admirably that he can keep his bearings not only high in the sky but also on earth. After the colors were retired, he was literally assailed by congratulatory hands and surrounded by gleaming smiles. The hands he shook, each and every one of them. And the smiles he mirrored, his being the brightest. As a final gift, he sat down at a prepared table and accepted the burden of signing his name to commemorative certificates and photographs. A very long line that certainly took a great deal longer to whittle down than The Long Lonely Leap had... 5 32

Gladewater Corsairs CS Supports Scientific Research

By 1st Lt Harold Parks

On February 2, Capt Charles Mouton and 1st Lt Harold Parks from Gladewater Corsairs Composite Squadron flew an aerial survey of Big Cypress Bayou at the request of the Caddo Lake Institute. The purpose of the flight was to document photographically the impact of the water release on the areas downstream of Lake O the Pines leading to Caddo Lake. U.S Geological Survey scientists had placed instruments at various locations of interest below the Lake O the Pines dam, and the aircrew took photographs along the Bayou where these instruments were located. The data gathered by the sensors and the photographs will be used to evaluate the effects of the water release.

Wreaths Across America . . .

Continued from page 3
children and veterans as the ideal way of expressing appreciation for the past, present and future sacrifices our veterans and their families make for this country. People from all walks of life came together on December 14, to pay tribute to those that have made the sacrifice to keep America free. Ceremonies were held at the following cemeteries across Texas by CAP Squadrons or Veterans groups: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery Group III Honor Guard Kerrville National Cemetery Kerrville Composite Squadron Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery DVA W. R. Hold Chapter 147 Houston National Cemetery Thunderbird Composite Squadron Fort Bliss National Cemetery El Paso Composite Squadron Belvedere Cemetery/All Veterans Plot San Angelo Composite Squadron DALLAS Squadron members from Group III participated in the Wreaths Across America program at a formal ceremony conducted at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas. The Civil Air Patrol was this events organizer, and the responsibility for the conduct of the ceremonies rested with the Group III Honor Guard all of them CAP cadets. Individual participants were, from the Mesquite Black Sheep Composite Squadron, C/ Capt Rebecca McKinney, 1st Lt Opal McKinney, 2d Lt Terri Kleinmeier, C/A1C Tim Kleinmeier, C/MSgt Johanna Cohen, and 2d Lt Kelly Castillo; from the Red Oak Cadet Squadron, 2d Lt Sara Black; from the Waxahachie Talon Composite Squadron, C/CMSgt Tiffany Hamm, 1st Lt Johnnie Reed, and C/A1C Caleb Brown; and representing Texas Wing, Lt Col Nancy Smalley, Texas Wing Chaplain. Ushers included Robert Cahill and his sons Brandon and Trevor, of the Royal Rangers, a Christian-based organization for young boys. C/Capt McKinney moderated the event. Lt Col Smalley gave the invocation as a nearby church bell rang in the distance, coinciding with the moment of silence. The Group III Honor Guard including C/MSgt Cohen, C/A1C Kleinmeier, C/CMSgt Hamm, and C/A1C Brown posted the colors against a background of American flags held by 25 Patriot Guard Riders, who assist in military funerals to pay their respect to fallen soldiers as well as shield such events from protesters. The formal recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag followed, after which representatives of all five branches of the military presented the wreaths, one by one, by order of precedence. The armed forces representatives were Spec James Atkins (Army), AT3 Lewis Paschal (Navy), Sgt Jerry Duncan (Marines), MSgt Michael Peterson (Air Force), and MK1 Cory Lockhart (Coast Guard). Gary Poplin, a retired Navy CPO who worked with the Civil Air Patrol to help organize and conduct the ceremony, was the first one at the podium. His voice faltered when he read a poem by an anonymous writer about an individual who spent time to reflect on what all soldiers did for their country. Gerald Cowan, Past State Commander of Disabled American Veterans, spoke of the rigors of military life and the memory of those who fell. Jerry Murphee Jr., Vice Commander, Texas VFW, and Bob Roberts, Commander of the 1st Division, Texas American Legion, rounded off the program. Love of country, self-sacrifice, camaraderie, freedom and volunteerism were themes visited by all. Following the speakers, five members of the Lone Star Chapter, Paralyzed Veterans of America, fired three ceremonial rifle volleys, and Capt James Lucas, retired US Air Force, played taps. Afterwards, the Civil Air Patrol Honor Guard retired the colors and Lt Col Smalley pronounced the closing prayer. Before officially closing the ceremony, C/Capt McKinney encouraged those present to visit any fallen service persons gravesite, honoring in that individual all those who have made the supreme sacrifice for America. McKinney also urged those who chose to do so to write down and research that persons name, so as to better understand the contribution that service member made for the United States. Rick Crabb, former Marine and local leader of the Patriot Guard Riders, said, We have about 40,000 riders nationwide, attending the funeral services of fallen soldiers. Glen Carlisle, also of the Patriot Guard Riders, Continued . . . 33

Wreaths Across America . . .

Continued
said, I was never in the service, but I lost an uncle Robert Carlisle on the USS Arizona; hes still there. Bob Roberts of the Texas American Legion thanked the Civil Air Patrol and Worcester Wreath Company for their involvement in organizing the event. Gerald Cowan, referring to the cemetery, stated, This is hallowed ground. This is a field of honor for those who served the country well. Ed Bundrant, former Army and one of the participants who fired the three rifle volleys, said, It is a privilege to pay tribute here. SAN ANGELO The morning air was cool and the sun was bright as members of the community gathered at Belvedere Memorial Cemetery Veterans plot to honor our veterans and our military personnel for their dedication to our country and helping to keep it free on Thursday, December 14, 2006. Judge Mike Brown, Tom Green County Commissioners Court, Jesse Lashbook, Field Representative for Congressman Michael Conaways office and Frances Wheat, Representative from Congressman Robert Duncans office were among the group to participate in the ceremony that took place across the nation. Civil Air Patrol members Major Maurice Clement, San Angelo Composite Squadron Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Tom Strickland and Major Dana Gray, Texas Wing Public Affairs Officer greeted members of the Goodfellow Joint Honor Guard and began preparations for the ceremony that would take place at 11:00 a.m. The only flaw to the plan was that the wreaths did not arrive as planned, but the ceremony proceeded as if they were there. A wreath was to be laid for each branch of the service as well as the US Coast Guard and POW/ MIA. Staff Sergeant Nicole Powell represented the Army, Air Craft Handler 1st Class Shane Krueger represented the Navy, Captain Henry G Billings, Jr, represented the Marines, 1st Lieutenant Timothy Lange represented the Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Tom Strickland Civil Air Patrol made the presentation for the US Coast Guard and Mr. Virgil May represented the POW/MIA. Our thanks to Fort Concho for sending out a group and to Greg Hector, bugler, for playing taps at the end of the ceremony. We also want to thank Ron Bell, VFW Post # 572, for providing PA system and to Mark Clark, Director of the Twin Mountain Tonesman for providing a CD with the Star Spangle Banner and God Bless America. HOUSTON With honor and reverence to our veterans, Capt Eric Thompson opened the Wreaths Across America ceremony with a moment of silence at the Houston National Cemetery Thursday December 14, 2006. The day started with dense fog but about an hour before the ceremony began the fog lifted and a beautiful, mild, sunny day was at hand. Six wreaths were laid by active duty and retired military personnel from each branch of the military. The sixth wreath represented the POW/MIA. This wreath was laid by USMC Sgt. Ron Ridgeway, retired. He is a former Viet Nam POW held for five years. He endured torture, loss of comrades and loneliness. Remains that were mistaken for him were laid in St. Louis, MO. and a headstone was placed at the Houston National Cemetery. When it was discovered he was alive the headstone was removed. Texas Wing Commander Robert Eldridge spoke of the sacrifices men and women of the military have given in the pursuit of the freedom we enjoy today. Houston City Council member Ronald C. Green and a representative from Congressman Al Greenes office were also in attendance along with many cadets and senior members from Group IV. A color guard made up of Group IV cadets and Spring Branch ISD Navy JROTC cadets performed with deep respect and honor for our veterans. Echo Taps, played by Bugles Across America members Danny Stephens and Mike Palmquist ended the ceremony. Our future is in good hands said one veteran as he pointed to the many CAP cadets on hand. These young people make me proud and happy to have come here today. Many of the veterans shook hands and thanked the cadets for having this ceremony in Houston as well as across the nation. They were touched that these young people would take the time to honor them in such a manner. Your group or squadron can help expand this tribute for 2007. To find out more information on Wreaths Across America and to sign up visit www.wreathsacross america.org. All wreaths for the ceremonies were donated by the Worcester Wreath Company.

5
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Red Oak Color Guard Training

By C/Capt Rebecca McKinney
The members of the Red Oak Cadet Squadron come in all sizes, all of them young. They are also eager to learn, and want to start a Color Guard of their own. The result was a weekend visit from selected members of the Group III Honor Guard, who traveled some 30 minutes by car from Mesquite and Waxahachie, TX in order to conduct the necessary training. The cadet teaching staff included C/A1C Tim Kleinmeier, C/CMSgt Tiffany Hamm (who is getting her Mitchell this month), and C/Capt Rebecca McKinney. The senior staff members present were Capt Jane Smalley, Lt Col Nancy Smalley, Maj Tom Smalley, and 2d Lt Sara Black. Attending the instruction were Red Oak Cadets Caffee, Tucker, Heitzmann, Evans, and Hoffman. The weekend consisted of indoor colors presentation, color guard knowledge and traditions, lots of marching and ceremonial drill, etiquette, an in-depth uniform class covering Class B Blues, and Physical Training (PT). Carrying the colors requires strength, especially outdoors when the wind blows hard, so PT is essential for cadets to develop physically and acquire the ability to march seemingly effortlessly down a long windy street, or across a wind-swept football field. Especially when carrying the colors, the uniform must be impeccably worn. Also, an honor guard or color guard cadet is expected to know how to care for the uniform, Cadets Hoffman and Heitzmann wearing beginners press or iron it, harness. sew on a missing button, and correctly attach all accessories. The uniform is an essential part of the ceremonial presentation of the colors, as is the visual impact of a tightly synchronized group moving in perfect unison, with precision and ease. The meal and snack breaks during the weekend

Trainee Cadet Caffee gets a feeling for the flag.

presented an opportunity for the cadets to get to know each other on a social level, and improved the visiting cadets ability to engage the aspiring members of the new color guard. Gentle correction and an intense desire to do well helped the Red Oak cadets learn quickly and well. Since the weather was inclement, the cadets couldnt practice outdoor Colors Presentation, nor do the one-mile run. However, all other training objectives were met. All in all, it was a very educational weekend and the Red Oak cadets improved in teamwork as well as the skills mentioned above. In spite of their taking an instant dislike for the metronome, and their goodnatured plotting of mischief against it, they finally decided to tolerate it in the interest of improved training. The cadets stayed on track very well, and made the weekend a success. 37

San Angelo Squadron Tours US Customs Facility

By 2d Lt Johanna O. Augustine
The San Angelo Composite Squadron toured the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency on 10 February 2007. Customs personnel briefed cadets, parents, and Senior CAP members of the San Angelobased Homeland Security mission of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency. Mr. John Herron, a Customs pilot, narrated a short video on employment within the agency. He stressed that a cadet wishing to work for a federal agency must complete high school and attend college, learn a second language, not use drugs, and have no police record. Mr. Patrick OBrian, the U.S. Customs senior-rated pilot, told cadets of how his interest in flying and law enforcement led to a career with the agency. The border protection mission requires skilled pilots with knowledge of law enforcement procedures and weapons. Mr. OBrian led the group on

Cadet Airman Sean McCallum sits at the Sensor Operator Position of a King Air aircraft.

Cadet Technical Sergeant Knight examines the cockpit of a Cessna Citation.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

a tour of the hangar, explaining the assortment of U.S. Customs fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. Cadets sat in the cockpit of Cessna Citation and King Air aircraft and got first-hand experience on the complicated task of monitoring the various instruments of both aircraft.

San Angelo Composite Sqdn Hosts SLS

By 2d Lt Johanna O. Augustine
San Angelo Composite Squadron hosted Squadron Leadership School (SLS) February 3-4. Nine senior members from Abilene, El Paso, Lubbock, and San Angelo attended the 2-day course held at the Non-commissioned Officer Academy at Goodfellow AFB. SLS director, Capt David Wolfe, assistant director, Maj Dana Gray, and instructors Maj Gary Nussey, Capt David S. Crymes, 1st Lt Bob Chambless, James Keohane, and Jonathan Swirnarski covered such topics as organization and progression of CAP, military briefing, letter writing, cadet programs, aero1st Lt Bob R. Chambless space education, emergency serdemonstrates the correct way to vices, safety, wear of the uniform, shine a boot. Photo by 2d Lt Johanna O. Augusti0ne and communications. 38

Maj Gary A. Nussey shows the class a project that can be used in the Cadet Aerospace Program.

Commanders Comments . . .
Continued from page 1
Then Hurricane Rita hit the Texas and Louisiana coast. Between the two Hurricanes, we had over 280 individuals who supported Federal Emergency Management, 1st Air Force, the Texas Governors office of Emergency Management and our local communities for the Disaster Relief Efforts. Along with receiving the Disaster Relief Ribbon with the V Device, Texas Wing also received one of the first National Commanders Unit Citations. Shortly after both hurricanes, the state of Texas called for our services in the fire watch mission. Possibly one of the longest missions weve ever conducted, after 92 days we flew over 1,800 hours, reported over 500 fires and provided damage assessments to the local and state officials. In the past 6 months we have started Homeland Security missions with the state. We would not have been this involved without the outstanding relationship weve developed with the Governors Office of Emergency Management. The next time you see Lt Col Jack Jackson and 1st Lt Daren Jaeger, give them the special thanks for their work on a day to day basis in building the strong relationship we currently have with the state. In addition, we established the Distributed Search and Rescue Exercise concept, allowing all members in the wing an opportunity to receive training in any aspect of emergency services on a monthly basis. This concept provides for more realistic training for all mission staff positions in handling wing-wide large scale missions, improved communications from the mission base to staging areas utilizing phone, e-fax, internet and radio communications (both HF and airborne repeater operations) in providing critical sortie information, and included proficiency training for over 490 aircrew members and 380 ground team members. One of our goals was to improve the wings infrastructure. It was impressed onto the wing and group staff members that our mission statement is to provide maximum support to all the squadrons within the wing. Here are some of these accomplishments: - Completed a wing reorganization reducing the number of Group Headquarters from 11 to 5. The main objective for the realignment was to better support the squadrons within the respective groups. This has been a great success with improvements in the flow of communications, effectiveness and efficiency between all levels of command throughout Texas Wing. - Installed new radios and radio panels in all 28 wing aircraft in only 4 months. - Eliminated the need for 6 reports and reduced the frequency of several other reports at the unit level. - Installed and acquired an approved STC for the new Becker Directional Finder in our aircraft. This had an impact across all of Civil Air Patrol. - Initiated several tools to help the overall work productivity; installed e-fax services, web page, e-mail server and conference call capability. - Improved our annual awards nomination process and moved the wing conference up from September to the April time frame to provide our members timely recognition our members deserve each year. - Initiated several agenda items at the National Board level to include the automation of the pilot listings within e-services, eliminating 30 man-hours each month in Texas Wing alone. The elimination of the Transfer of Property Statement and the clarification of the Testing Control Officer Appointment letters with the regulations, again eliminating unnecessary paperwork across Civil Air Patrol. - Our Wing Staff worked very closely with the National Headquarters staff on several items to help improve our wing. We very much appreciate all the National Headquarters staff for their assistance. They have answered our calls and made tremendous improvements to our program. Here are some of the examples: - Initiated the new e-services Operational Qualification Mission Availability Report, providing all Civil Air Patrol Incident Commanders a report of all available mission qualified personnel by specific qualifications, day and time, saving valuable time in locating available mission personnel. - Continuing to develop e-services to be a tool for all of our members and to help reduce large amounts of paperwork. As an example, Ive seen performance promotions in the past years take 6 months or longer. Today, these promotions are submitted at the unit level, all approvals completed and the new rank posted the same day. All performance promotions are being completed on-line without a single piece of Continued . . . 39

Commanders Comments . . .
Continued
paper being filled out. - We have received the new GA-8 and several of our members have received intense training on the ARCHER system. We also added two new C-182 glass cockpit aircraft to our inventory, along with 3 new vans with 8 more expected this year. Hundreds of new radios have already been delivered to our units and 30 new VHF/FM repeaters are to be installed in the next couple of years. Your accomplishments have not gone unnoticed - each year at the Summer National Board, Texas Wing has received recognitions to include receiving the 2004 Third Place National Aerospace Education Award, 2005 Counter Drug Award and for the past three years the Disaster Relief Award. In addition, several of our members have received national recognition - last year alone, Chaplain David Northcutt, National Chaplain of the Year and Lt Col Jim Zoeller, National Senior Member of the Year. These are just a few of your accomplishments. This could not have been accomplished without your selfless volunteer dedication and teamwork each of you has demonstrated. Im very proud to have served as your Wing Commander, and I have no doubt you will give Col Joe Smith the same support you have provided me. You are truly the Outstanding Civil Air Patrol Texas Wing Volunteer Professionals.

Midland Composite Squadron Cadet Darville West Point Bound

By Maj Randy Auburg
C/2d Lt Shane Darville has received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Shane is the Cadet Commander for the Midland Composite Squadron. Shane is an inspiration to all who met him and his appointment to the academy is made more remarkable by the fact that he is home schooled. Shane will be the second Midland cadet at a service academy next year. Daniel McLaughlin is a former Midland Composite Squadron cadet and he is currently a sophomore at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Well done Shane!

41

Delta Honor Guard At Tomball Jet Hot Rod Show

By 2d Lt Mary Ureke
Delta Composite Squadron, based at Hooks Airport, was invited to participate in Tomball Jets first sponsored Helicopter fly-in and Hot Rod Show. Deltas Honor Guard posted the American flag followed by the State Flag of Texas, Pledge of Allegiance and Star Spangled Banner which started the show at 10am. The Tomball Jet ramp was filled with an array of restored and customized cars from around Harris County and the surrounding area, as well as, several airplanes and helicopters on display. There were pancakes and delicious BBQ available throughout the day for people to enjoy. Santa was spotted waving from a helicopter during a fly-by later in the afternoon. Colors were retired by the guard around 4:00pm to close out the first annual Tomball Jet hot-rod show and fly-in. The cadets who made up the Honor Guard were: C/Amn Devon Glasscock, C/Amn Sydney Glasscock, C/Amn Ryan Kennedy, C/TSgt Robert Lewis and C/Capt Jesse Daniel led the guard. This was their first public performance since the formation of the new color guard class at the squadron. Graduation of cadets from the twelve week class was held on 5 Dec at the Civil Air Patrol Squadron building at Hooks Airport. Family and visitors were welcomed and enjoyed a Christmas party following promotions and the graduation ceremony.

Delta Cadet Attends Space Conference

C/SMSgt Jamie Douglas with Eileen Collins (Colonel, USAF, RET) who piloted the Return to Flight mission on space shuttle Discovery in July and August 2005.

By 2d Lt Victoria Carstens Picture by 2d Lt Jim Douglas

C/SMSgt Jamie Douglas was one of the Delta Composite Squadron cadets who accompanied Maj Bjorn Sundet (Delta Deputy Commander for Cadets) and 2d Lts Victoria Carstens and James Douglas to the 2nd Space Exploration Conference at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston on December 5th. At Exploration Alley, Cadet Douglas met experts in the aerospace education field and also questioned engineers who design flight suits for astronauts. In addition, Douglas spoke with the makers of ATHLETE (the all terrain hex-limbed extraterrestrial explorer which was on exhibit), examined a Pratt and Whitney J-2 cryogenic upper-stage engine which had gone to the moon, learned first-hand that a meteor is much heavier than it appears, inspected various space foods which were on display, and handled tiles, a frangible nut, and other components of a space shuttle. One unusual conversation of the day was with Sprocket, a roving and slightly impertinent robot equipped with voice-recognition software which enabled it to dialogue as intelligently as a human and to speak all languages. Indeed, Exploration Alley was right up Cadet Douglass alley, since she aspires to enter either the United States Air Force or the United States Navy and become an astronaut. Astronauts Eileen Collins and Winston Scott were present at the conference and encouraged Cadet Douglas to aim high and achieve her goals.

By 1st Lt Denise Thompson

Thunderbird Color Guard Invited to Veterans Day Ceremonies

Thunderbird Composite Squadron Color Guard was invited to participate in the Veterans Day Salute November 10th & 11th, 2006 in Galveston, TX. Beginning at the Lone Star Flight Museum Friday evening and ending at Seawolf Park Saturday afternoon. A USAF Air Lifters reunion was held at the Lonestar Flight Museum Friday evening, Nov. 11th. The Thunderbird Color Guard posted the colors then performed the Missing Man/POW ceremony. Saturday morning dawned clear, cool and very windy. An outdoor memorial service at 1st Aero Park in Texas City began with CAP 1st Lt Tony Kelly, former USAF Air Lifter, reading the roll call of those who passed in the last year. Thunderbird Color Guard posted the colors. The last stop was Seawolf Park, home of the submarine Cavalla and the destroyer escort USS Stewart. Thunderbird cadets opened the ceremony by performing the Missing Man/POW ceremony. The hard blowing wind was a challenge and the team made sure nothing blew over or blew away. A highlight was the fly over by two F-16 fighters from the Texas State Guard based at Ellington Field. The Marines gave a 21 gun salute, JROTC cadets showed off their rifle handling skills. The city of Galveston provided a big, warm bowl of delicious chili to all the participants at the end of the program. Many a veteran came by to thank each cadet for a job well done. They did a fine program said one older gentleman, They brought tears to my eyes. These six young men possessed a maturity and professionalism throughout the entire weekend. The future of our country is in good hands.

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History of Civil Air Patrol at Pipe Creek Christian School

By C/A1C Ralph Luke Williams
During the last months of the 2005-06 school year, secondary students at Pipe Creek Christian School expressed their desire for a military program be implemented at the school. One of the full time volunteers, Mrs. Ilene Stephenson, took up the challenge and investigated the possibilities. She soon discovered that a junior ROTC could not be implemented because of the small size of the school. With only 29 students enrolled in the middle and high schools, some other program would have to suffice. Then Mrs. Stephenson discovered the Civil Air Patrol program and called Col Billman, commander of Group V to help her familiarize herself with it and to solicit support. The Civil Air Patrol was subsequently introduced to the middle and high school students at the beginning of the 2006-07 school year. Twenty-three of the twentynine students enlisted. Mrs. Stephenson was appointed commander and five adults joined as senior members. During the CAPs first year, cadets completed the orientation
Cadet Laura Zinsitz on the left and Cadet Melissa Bannon on the right. The photographer was SM Glenda Zinsitz.

Kerrville Composite Squadron Cadet Honored

By 1st Lt John Hainey
Cadet Staff Sergeants Laura Zinsitz and Melissa Bannon attended the Texas Wing, Cadet Training and Education Non-Commissioned Officer Academy at Camp Mabry in Austin, November 10-12, 2006. This NCOA class was the largest ever held (more than 50 cadets). Cadet Staff Sergeant Laura Zinsitz was selected as the Fall NCOA Honor Cadet, an honor given to only one NCOA cadet in the class. Both cadets hold leadership positions in the Fredericksburg Flight of the Kerrville Composite Squadron. course and attended the Curry Leadership School in Houston, TX, earning their first stripe. The Arnold Leadership School was held on the campus of Pipe Creek Christian School during November and was lead by Commander Stephenson. Thirteen cadets and three senior members also attended the Winter Encampment in Bastrop, TX, at Camp Swift between Christmas and New Years Day. CAP Squadron 804 marched in three parades during the school year and several students took their first flight. The cadets also built and launched rockets. During January, an honor/color guard was formed and is being trained by the Lackland active duty honor guard in San Antonio. The CAP program has been successful at Pipe Creek Christian School as other students were allowed to enlist during January. The squadron has also opened itself up to home schooled students. 45

CAP 2d Lt Jesse Breedlove, who is an aircrew volunteer with the Texas Dept. of Public Safety, answers Cadet Carlos Castros questions during his helicopters visit to Brownsville Composite Squadron.

Major Neil Macdougall

Brownsville Squadron Raises Funds, Keeps Active

The saying, If all your eggs are in one basket, watch it carefully has special meaning to Brownsville Composite Squadron. For more than 10 years, nearly all the money for cadet activities has come from parking cars at the annual Los Fresnos PRCA Rodeo. Again this year, the squadron commander, now Major Sean Crandall, met the Rodeo Committee repeatedly to review the location of V.I.P. and handicapped parking, traffic flow, pass design, safety and other items. Every effort had to be made to keep the customer happy. During the 3-day rodeo, Major Juan Arredondo, deputy commander, and his cadets parked several thousand cars, while senior members collected money at one gate and supervised other entrances. On Friday, the 46 first day, cadets were at school until late afternoon while many senior members could not leave their jobs. Lt Cols Donald Mac Leod and Martha Mac Leod, winter Texans from Michigan, were among members who put in an 11-hour day, and still worked both Saturday and Sunday. The squadron earned over $2,500 from the event. Cadets visited the Kingsville Naval Air Station, thanks to funds from an earlier rodeo. Many were thrilled to fly a simulator of the Boeing Goshawk, a fast jet trainer. Cadets also got hands-on experience with a Dept. of Public Safety helicopter. 2d Lt Jesse Breedlove, who is a volunteer aircrew member with DPS, arranged for the Eurocopter to visit the squadron. Nine cadets recently graduated from Cadet Training and Education Program Schools. Cadet John Rios was named top honor graduate among 150 cadets at one encampment, and later was graduated with honors from the General Search and Rescue Specialty School. Cadet Cristopher Costas was an honor graduate of another encampment. The squadrons policy of participating in every DSAR has given cadets an opportunity to sharpen their skills. Cadets also take part in searches. First Lt Hector Galvan, Cadets Greg Garza, Thomas Kraft (also named Cadet of the Year in 2006) Cesar Riojas, John Rios and Joshua Schalk were among a ground team searching for an ELT that had been heard over Moore Airfield. After a long drive, the group spent

several wonderful hours waiting for the hangar doors to be opened. No ELT was found until a follow-up search led by Major Crandall the next morning. Since 2005, squadron members have earned one Ira C. Eaker, one Amelia Earhart, two Billy Mitchell and seven Yeager awards. . The units location and the people who have worked there should also inspire cadets. Brownsville Composite Squadron is in the restored, historic Pan American Airways terminal building, which dates from the 1930s. Charles Lindberg flew the first international air mail from Mexico City to Brownsville. Pan Am pioneered routes from there to South America.

Brownsville Composite Squadron earns money for parking cars at a rodeo in order to pay for cadet trips to encampments and, as illustrated here, a visit to Kingsville Naval Air Station. Cadet Ruby Moreno was among several cadets who flew a Boeing T-45 Goshawk simulator

Cadet C. Riojas enjoys trying on a helicopter aircrew helmet during the visit of a Dept. of Public Safety Eurocopter to Brownsville Composite Squadron.

47

Members of the Corpus Christi Comp Squadron pose with local Radio Talk Show host and Community Leader Rev. Bob Jones. Rev Jones spoke on Leadership and praised the Civil Air Patrol as a builder of future leaders.

Corpus Christi Celebrates 65th Anniversary

By Major Joe Ely Carrales
The Corpus Christi Composite Squadron celebrated the 65th Anniversary of the founding of the Civil Air Patrol on 11 December 2006 in conjunction with its Holiday Banquet and announcement of its first complete Aircrew. The banquet was held at the Silverado Smokehouse in Corpus Christi, Texas. The evening began with a stirring performance by the Patriots Band of Corpus Christi. The ensemble preformed traditional Christmas music along with Patriotic themes. At 1900hrs Maj Joe Ely Carrales opened the ceremonials. The bands Color Guard posted the Colors and the occasion was opened with the National Anthem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and Cadet Oath. The Patriots Band was contacted by the units Deputy Commander for Cadets, 1st Lt Sandy Phelps, who is also a member of that musical group. 1st Lt Phelps intended to conduct the ensemble; however she was hospitalized and could not. She never-theless, maintained almost constant contact with the unit via cell phone to insure all went well. Phelps also provided various door prizes that were given out thought the evening. Several awards were then given. Cadet Airman Philip Lozanos promotion to that rank was reaffirmed in ceremony and a commendation from the Deputy Commander of Cadets was read aloud. Cadet Technical Sergeant Christopher Villarreal too was read a commendation. Both Cadet Villarreal and 48

Corpus Christis first operational aircrew in YEARS! Dubbed the ALPHA AIRCREW by the units commander, members include (Left to Right) Capt Joe Pendergrast (Mission Observer/Scanner), 1st Lt Jerry Lunceford (Mission Pilot/Scanner), 2d Lt Mike Garmon (Missions Scanner) and 2d Lt John Hoelscher (Mission Scanner). Not pictured is Major Fidel Alvarado (Mission Scanner).

Lozano where honored with the news that they had been recommended to the Group V Cadet Advisory Council, CAC, as primary and secondary representatives respectively. Also, both will be attending the 2006 Texas Wing Basic Encampment. Additionally, Capt Joe Pendergrast and 1st Lt Jerry Lunceford were awarded aviation badges - Capt Pendergrast for achieving Mission Observer and 1st Lt Lunceford for becoming a Mission Pilot, both of these positions being necessary for an effective Aircrew. The evenings keynote speaker was the Reverend Bob Jones, local radio talk show host on local News/ Talk 1440 Keys. Reverend Jones is the primary host of the KEYS Morning Show and Saturday afternoon radio periodical Commonsense with Bob Jones. Reverend Jones spoke on Leadership in the modern world and offered encouraging words to up-in-coming CAP cadets praising the Civil Air Patrol for building future leaders. This was a continuation of the Corpus Christi Comp Squadrons guest speaker program begun in October of 2006. Lastly, the only item on the Meeting Agenda was to review the units goals for 2007. Capt Pendergrast read over them, which outlined 2007 by quarters stressing the need for Air/Ground operations and continued activities toward building the unit. The evening ended with a few photos and conversation with the guest host and wishes of continued unit growth for 2007. Lets keep em flying in 2007!

Lackland Cadet Squadron members with pilot Maj Nicole Malachowski. Maj Malachowski flies the No. 3 Right Wing, with the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds.

By C/1st Lt Gus Rojas Pictures by SM Nancy Kerr

Airfest 2006 at Lackland Air Force Base

Welcome to the Lackland Airfest! Calling thousands to converge on San Antonio, Texas, was the Lackland Airfest 2006. This years annual Air Show was held at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas, where Civil Air Patrol cadets were amongst many who participated in this event. The Lackland Cadet Squadron was joined by others from the Pegasus Composite, and the newly formed Pipe Creek Squadron. Commander of the 5th Group, Col Eddy Billman was also on hand to assist in recruiting purposes. On Saturday, November 4, many cadets assisted in recruiting others, as well as touring the Air Show grounds. Many aircraft were present such as the Y/F-22 Raptor, MH53 Pavelow, AH60 Blackhawk, KC135 Stratotanker, C5 Galaxy, A10 Warthog, the historically famous Thunderbirds and many more. Different aircraft displays were plentiful, such as the Pearl Harbor reenactment, the Army Golden Knights, Air Force Reserve Rocket car, and a fly-by from the F-117A Nighthawk Stealth Fighter. Later that day the crowds were fascinated as the Thunderbirds displayed their aerial superiority and deafened most everyone. The day concluded with satisfaction by the CAP group, and all returned home to prepare for the next day. On Sunday morning, November 5, with only a few hours left until the close of the Air Show, the Lackland Squadron was out bright and early in full force. The cadets numbered many more than the previous day, and with more cadets, only brought more people to the CAP display. The Air Show schedule mirrored Saturdays, but this one was truly different. The cadets were able to meet up with Major Nicole Malachowski, who flies the No .3 jet as the right wing pilot for the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron. Major Nicole Malachowski is the first female Thunderbird Pilot, and the first woman demonstration pilot in any military high performance jet team. She was also a former CAP cadet from the Cable Composite Squadron based in California where she achieved the grade of Cadet Captain. She expressed words of encouragement for the cadets to reach for their dreams, to continue making good grades, and for all of them to try as hard Continued on page 52 . . . 49

(L to R) C/A1C Mary Garcia, C/1st Lt Gus Rojas, C/A1C Kris Kerr, C/A1C Nicole Miglis.

Lackland Cadets Graduate from the Fall 2006, CTEP NCOA School
By C/1st Lt Gus Rojas Pictures taken by Nancy Kerr
On the weekend of 10-12 Nov 2006, three Lackland Cadets, C/ A1C Kris Kerr, C/A1C Damian Moulder, and C/A1C Nicole Miglis attended the fall 2006 CTEP Leadership School. The cadets attended the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, which unveiled to be the largest NCOA class ever at a Texas Wing CTEP School. The school was held on Camp Mabry, Texas. Friday evening, November 10, the Lackland Cadets reported in at Camp Mabry. Staff members were standing by to search their luggage and after signing-in and getting settled in their dorm rooms, they were whisked off to class. During the next couple of days, the Cadets were given intermediate training in leadership, effective communications skills, were introduced to the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Protection Policy, United States Air Force Core Values and an extensive instruction in drill and ceremonies and customs and courtesies were also given. On Saturday, November 11 the cadets woke early, and to their surprise the temperature had dipped to the low 40s. PT was conducted outdoors and was followed by instructional classes which took place through most of the day. The Cadets were given an assignment which required them to write a speech and also study the materials learned throughout the weekend for a final comprehensive test. On Sunday, November 12, the temperature was very brisk and the Cadets warmed up with drill and ceremonies as most of them got to drill the flight acting as a Flight Sergeant using the techniques they had previously learned. As the graduation approached, parents and guests
Cadets with family and friends at The Texas Capital, Austin, TX.

NCOA Graduates (L to R) C/A1C Damian Moulder, C/A1C Nicole Miglis, C/A1C Kris Kerr

began arriving and found their way to the Audie L. Murphy Building, where the graduation was to take place. The Cadets received high compliments for their teamwork, accomplishments, and overall morale for the weekend. NCOA cadet staff member, C/Lt Col Nathan Yalcin announced that this was not only his best class so far to teach, but was also the largest NCOA class ever at the Texas Wing-level CTEP School. All 52 cadets graduated with honors and earned their red and blue cord which they can now proudly wear anywhere within the Texas Wing. The Cadets accepted their certificate and began wearing their cords proudly. The Lackland Cadets finished up the weekend with a visit to the Texas Capital in Austin before making their journey home to San Antonio, Texas.

By C/1st Lt Gus Rojas Pictures by Senior Member Nancy Kerr

Lackland Squadron Participates in Largest Texas Wing Winter Encampment

The day after Christmas serves most Americans as a time to recuperate after the holiday rush. But for a many Texas Wing Civil Air Patrol members it is training time at Winter Encampment. This years encampment was held at Camp Swift, Texas. Seven cadets from the Lackland Cadet Squadron joined over two hundred other cadets attending basic training for the six day event. It was truly one activity these cadets would never forget.. Encampment started with its usual in-processing session December 26 in which each cadets luggage was searched, contraband confiscated, and overall flight assignments and procedures were Two Cadets represented the Corpus Christi given. The cadets Composite Squadron at that Texas Wing Winter were constantly Encampment on 26-31 December 2006 at Camp u n d e r the Swift in Bastrop, Texas. Cadet Christopher Villarreal intense correcand Cadet Philip Lozano received last minute tion by cadet instructions from 2d Lt Timothy Haggerty, Squadron Leadership Officer, at the meeting prior to the staff members encampment. These were the first cadets from the including the Corpus Christ Comp Squadron to attend a basic Squadron First encampment in over five years. This marks the first S e r g e a n t s , step in a renewed effort to revitalize the units Cadet Flight ComProgram. manders and Sergeants, and other Senior Staff who were located throughout the base. After receiving their assignments, each flight immediately began working on Drill and Ceremonies, an essential part in Civil Air Patrol, where members coordinate with one another on sophisticated marching movements. Other activities that took place throughout the week were self defense classes, moral leadership sessions and much more. One of the exciting events was the National Rifle Association class. During this class cadets received the opportunity to qualify by NRA standards, and earn marksmanship medals, by shooting rifles at distanced targets. The cadets were also given privilege to view moon rocks which were on loan from NASA. Another great event was using the obstacle course in which no cadet was left behind. There were leadership classes, and many other things that kept the cadets busy throughout the activity. One of the most dreaded periods of Encampment are those created by the SET Team. SET stands for Standards and Evaluation Training. The cadets on SET Continued . . . 51

Winter Encampment . . .
Continued
rigorously inspected every bunk each day to make sure all proper measurements had been taken, and also to make sure each barrack demonstrated the highest level of cleanliness possible. SET also inspected each flight daily as uniforms were highly examined, and intensely critiqued each cadet to make sure his/her uniform represented Civil Air Patrol to the best degree possible. The evening before graduation, December 30, the encampment held a combat dining in. During the dining in, awards were distributed such as Flight/Squadron Honor Cadets. One of the Lackland cadets received the Flight Honor Cadet award, C/Airman First Class Daniel Perez, and was presented a challenge coin

with it. The dinner marked the winding down of encampment, with only few hours left till each member would be on their way home. Sunday morning, December 31, family members attended the graduation ceremony and watched as their children graduated from the activity. During the graduation Foxtrot was named Honor Flight of the Encampment which held one of the Lackland During the Thunderbird performance the cadets were preparing to go home when suddenly a call for a ground team mission came. After receiving the call, some cadets prepared and were ready to go within ten minutes with the equipment they had brought for any possible mission. The mission duration led by Capt Greg Jensen, lasted about eight hours, but although unsuccessful in finding the troublesome ELT, the group consisting of Cadet/Lt Col Paul Rojas, C/1 st Lt Gus Rojas, C/MSgt Colleen Rojas, C/ A1C Kris Kerr, C/A1C Damion Moulder, and C/Amn Mary Garcia, succeeded in eliminating a large part of the San Antonio, and surrounding area which led to another crew finding it the next day.

Airfest 2006 . . .
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as they could to obtain the Spaatz Award. After sharing a friendly conversation, she also took time to take individual pictures with each cadet and sign autographs for them. After visiting with Major Malachowski some cadets returned to their duties. It was then that the Lackland Cadet Squadron unveiled their newly formed Honor Guard Program with performances by C/Amn Daniel Perez and C/1st Lt Gus Rojas. The performance routine consisted of high speed rifle spinning in addition to tossing and step by step maneuvers. The performance brought many more people to the display and ended up with a lot of potential members. 52

Cadets, C/Senior Airman Kristopher Kerr. Shortly after out-processing the cadets were on their way home with many stories to tell. This yet again marked the end of another Texas Wing Encampment. Participants from the Lackland Squadron were: C/Airman Roland Earp Alpha C/Airman First Class Daniel Perez Bravo C/Airman First Class Kaitlynn Jewell Charlie C/Senior Airman Brian Rankin Charlie C/Senior Airman Damian Moulder Delta C/Senior Airman Nicole Miglis Echo C/Senior Airman Kristopher Kerr Foxtrot Running concurrently with Encampment was the Ground Search and Rescue Specialty School. This Senior Commandant was Captain Gregory Jensen, and Cadet Commandant was C/Lt Col Paul Rojas, both from the Lackland Squadron. During GSARSS the school taught its participants from Civil Air Patrols Emergency Services Curriculum, and had much classroom and practical field work. The school was used to qualify Ground Team Members as part of their ongoing training in CAP. 5