First Female Cadet from Havasu Attends PJOC

By: Captain J. Cosmano
London Bridge Composite Squadron 501

Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Breanna Mitchell, of the London Bridge Composite Squadron, was the first female from Lake Havasu to attend the Air Force Pararescue Orientation Course, also known as “PJOC,” recently hosted at the US Air Force Pararescue School. Out of 400+ CAP cadets attending the course, she was number 65 and only one of nine females accepted into the program.

Every member of Squadron 501 is proud of Cadet Mitchell and all she has done to achieve this accomplishment, especially as the first female to do so. She is planning to attend the Advanced Pararescue course located in Tucson withi the next 2 years. The qualification Physical Training test required for the course isn’t an easy obstacle, even teens that think they were physically fit were having difficulties.

AZ CAP Cadets see Latest in aviation, aerospace in Prescott

By: Lt Gary Haslam
Public Affairs Officer, Prescott Composite Squadron 206

Prescott, AZ – The largest Arizona Wing Cadet event of 2010 gathered over two days in Prescott, AZ, when Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University hosted 112 Civil Air Patrol cadets and senior members from 17 Arizona squadrons.

Arizona cadet squadrons converged on Prescott from Deer Valley, Prescott, Show Low, Cochise, Paradise Valley, Neotoma, Casa Grande, Sky Harbor, Glendale, Frank Luke, Falcon, Cottonwood, Dan Kenney, Doolen, London Bridge, Verde Valley and Tucson.

The Aerospace Education event was the inspiration of Major Phil Hubacek, deputy director of Aerospace Education for Arizona Wing and Group II Aerospace Education Officer. Through the cooperation of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the two day event was designed to open the minds of Arizona Civil Air Patrol cadets to the educational and career opportunities available in aerospace and aviation.

Cadets arrived at the Embry-Riddle campus around noon Wednesday, July 21, 2010, stowed gear, ate lunch, and gathered on the soccer field for Pledge of Allegiance, Greeting and Safety Briefing. Burt Mullins, Angela Woo and Matt Turner welcomed the cadets on behalf of Embry-Riddle.

Cadets were divided into two groups. One group was transported to the Embry-Riddle Flight Line operations at the Prescott Airport and the other group began the campus tour.

The campus tour group visited the University’s Aerospace Experimentation and Fabrication Building focused around aerospace engineering fabrication and experimental projects. The cadets explored the Fabrication Suite, Materials Science Lab, Materials Testing Lab, Structures Lab, Structural Dynamics Lab, Space Systems Lab, Composites Lab and Rapid Prototyping Lab with 3D printers for creating solid parts from engineered drawings.

One project the cadets saw was the ERAU sponsored jet dragster. The jet dragster, designed and built in 2004 with the help of Embry-Riddle aerospace engineering and aviation maintenance students, is a feature attraction at air shows and drag racing events around the country during the year. The rocket car, which accelerates from zero to 60 mph in less than a second, reaches a top speed of 270 mph

Cadets on the campus tour visited the Global Security and Intelligence Studies (GSIS) Operations Center and Army Situation Room - two areas used for hands-on situational training exercises, planning and study for ROTC students.

The campus tour also visited the Air Traffic Control Lab where cadets sat in the controller’s chair and directed simulated air traffic – some cadets had more success than others.

Finally, the campus tour took all to the wind tunnel lab where engineering students study the wind effects on aircraft and space craft designs. The cadets saw 4 wind tunnels, 3 subsonic and one supersonic shock tube.


The group visiting the Embry-Riddle Flight Line at the Prescott Airport got the opportunity to fly level 6 FAA simulators. These simulators have 180° field of view of animated images of flight around the Prescott airport. The image realistically responded to the simulators flight controls. The simulators were Cessna 172 aircraft with advanced all-glass cockpits. Cadets could actually log their flight time in these simulators for FAA credit! Everyone flew.

They saw other advanced simulators including the crosswind simulator.

Cadets toured the ERAU ramp and experienced the actual Cessna 172 training aircraft used at the university and then toured the Universal Helicopter ramp next door and got a brief education how helicopters operate. They all had a chance to sit in the helicopter and get the feel of it.

One of highlights of the Flightline Tour was a visit to the ERAU Crash Lab. Here, actual aircraft crashes are restaged for student forensic study. Cadets were shown how the position of debris and shape of key parts lead investigators to conclude the chain of events in the last few minute of the crash. 8 1/2 acres hold what's left of more than a half-dozen downed aircraft.

One of the most anticipated events was Wednesday evening’s Great AZ Wing Glider Championship on the soccer field. Six squadrons competed for 1st Place, 2nd Place, Most Innovative Design. And a special award was given, although not competed for: The Golden Turkey Award - for the, ahh, well you know what it was for.

The results of the 2010 Great AZ Wing Glider Championship are as follows:
1st Place: Tucson (Sqdn. 105)
2nd Place: Deer Valley (Sqdn. 302)
Most Innovative Design: Paradise Valley (Sqdn. 310)
Golden Turkey Award: Paradise Valley (Sqdn. 310)

Most of the squadrons choose to camp near the soccer field locker rooms and pitched tents. A ‘snake walk’ was conducted to clear the area of unfriendlies. No snakes were encountered. Others chose to sleep inside on the floor of the nearby gym.

One the second day, the groups changed tours and locations but not before Prescott Sqdn 206 was up doing PT at 0530. The rest rolled out of bed around 0600, then broke camp, stowed gear and then off to breakfast.

A pizza lunch was hosted by Embry-Riddle and the cadets got to see a presentation about the Army and Air Force ROTC programs and ask questions about careers and college scholarships.

The Medical Officer for the event, Lt. Col. Charles Bendixen reported no injuries or emergencies; the Safety Officer, 2Lt Jim Heintzman took full credit for this. Special attention and thanks go out to Lt. Col. David Cartier, 1Lt Priscilla Cartier, Maj. Bill Lynam, Lt. Col. Bob Anderson, Lt. Col. Pete Feltz and Lt. Col. Fred Seifritz for making this a great two day event.

A Message from the Chaplain

Dear Arizona Wing,

In case you were not aware, Art Rogers, Payson Operations Officer, provided this information:

Jim Cambier died last Tuesday, 20 July.  Services will be held in Payson this Friday as listed below.

Jim was a long time member of the Payson 209 CAP squadron.  At one time or another he was the deputy for cadets, communications officer, transportation officer, squadron commander, and others.  His real joy was working with the cadets.  He was also an expert on CAP communications issues.  He had retired after a long career with the FAA ground avionics maintenance team. 

When I was planning a move to Payson in 1999, Jim was one of the first persons I met.  Since I was a ham radio operator I went to a local club meeting.  Jim was the President of the ham club at the time.  I was also a member of the USAF reserve CAP-USAF organization.  I researched the local CAP unit and discovered the squadron commander was also Jim.  We became good friends.

I am forwarding information on the Friday service.  If anyone flies into Payson I will arrange transportation for them.

Art Rogers

Payson Operations Officer

The MEMORIAL service is this Friday, July 30th at 11:00am at St. Paul's Episcopal church on the corner of Sherwood and Easy Street.   There is a celebration and reception after the service at their home in East Verde Park.

The ERAU Tour Was an Outstanding Success!!

By: Lt Col A. Peter Feltz
Director of Aerospace Education, Arizona Wing

A few of the staff arrived on Tuesday to ice down water, some other drinks and snacks. We had a nice dinner at the Gurley Grill in downtown Prescott and went to a motel or home to rest up.

Wednesday the staff arrived about 0930 to set everything up for the registration. We had a total of 112 members show up which included about 20 senior members and 92 cadets. They came from 19 units throughout the state. About 65 set up camp across the road from the registration area and the rest prepared to stay in the Eagle Gym close by.

The cadets were broken up into "A" and "B" groups. Half were taken to the Prescott airfield to enjoy operating simulators and examine the aircraft and other functions. The other group stay at the campus and were escorted to many of the facilities such as the crash site wind tunnel and many others. After the tours were over we were treated to an excellent dinner in the dinning hall. All you can eat and drink. The cadet really took good advantage. Oh to be young again.

After dinner we went to the soccer field and set up for the glider competition. The participation was a little disappointing and very few units participated. It was a little windy and tough to fly the light gliders. The winning glider was well designed and constructed and flew nearly 100 feet in two different tries. See attached photos of the winner. To bad the glider wasn't in the photo. The other photo is the beginning assembly.

On Thursday we had an excellent breakfast in the dinning hall and the two groups swapped tour areas and returned at the assembly hall for a pizza lunch and presentations from an Army recruiter and an Air Force recruiter. After quite a few questions the assemble was dismissed and preparations made to depart.

All the comments we received were of a positive nature and many thought it would be a good idea to do it again next year. Look for other photos and articles by SSgt Phillip Kittelson on Facebook and Wingtips.

I wish to thank all the staff and members who took care of the cadets and transported them to the function. I particularly wish to thank my deputy, Maj. Phill Hubacek who spent many hours putting the program together.

Arizona Wing 2010 Sun-God Drill Team

By: Captain Wendy Fields
Drill Team Escort, Frank Luke Jr Cadet Squadron 356

C/Col Matt Bricker started building the 2010 Sun-God drill team, the AZWG drill team, in July by contacting former team members, seeing if there was interest among veteran teammates after not competing in 2009. Not surprisingly, many members jumped at the chance to compete again at the national level. With several members on board, try-outs were held for the remaining positions. All cadets, rookies and veterans, understood the history of the team and what it meant to be a part of its legacy. With a decorated past that started in 2006, when they earned 1st place in the National Cadet Competition, the Sun-God drill team subsequently brought home a 2nd place and another 1st place finish before taking the 2009 season off.

Each year, before competing at the national level, the team has to take first place at the South West Regional Cadet Competition. Color Guard and Drill Teams that took top honors in their respective wings from all six wings within the region are eligible to compete against one another to represent the SWR at NCC. For several members of the Sun-God drill team, this contest was their first opportunity to compete. Overall, this year’s performance was outstanding and they were recognized for their hard work. The team was heading to nationals once again.

Even after their decisive win at region, the team knew that nationals would offer more a challenging competition. The best drill teams in the nation would be there, all vying for the coveted USAF Chief of Staff Sweepstakes Award Trophy. Saturday practices became mandatory, as were overnights once per month. They called on outside resources to assist with specific training. They created multiple study guides for each Aerospace module and Leadership chapter. They fundraised to ensure the team was self sustaining. They displayed the dedication and desire few teenagers embrace, but did it as a team. Not wanting to let down their companions, they studied numerous pages, ran countless miles, and drilled for endless hours. Taking minutes off of their personal mile times, many ran several miles per day to shave just a few more seconds and achieve their personal best times. They were ready. They knew every command, and could execute it with perfection in perfect unison with those standing around them.

As the cliché goes, though they worked hard, they played just as hard. From lunches at Chino Banditos to midnight snack at the chow hall, comradery grew among the members and so did the trust. New stories of a befuddled chef and jokes of “Sierra Charlie” were added to tales that had been passed along by the veterans, allowing the team to take a mental break from the stresses of competition. The team continued to grow stronger with each practice.

Performing at their peak during Nationals, they were asked to give a special encore performance for General Price of the Pentagon to illustrate their Innovative Drill routine, a routine commanded in silence, with each separate movement of the five minute routine memorized by all 13 individuals. Watched by all competing at NCC, the Sun-God drill team completed their drill with pride. With their third place finish across the nation, all members of the Sun-God drill team: c/Col Matt Bricker, c/LtCol Brian Simpson, c/Maj Lindsay Davis, c/Maj Laura Beck, c/Maj Corey Fields, c/Capt Renner Mead, c/1LT Cliff Branch, c/1LT Anthony Petonic, c/ 2LT Justina Wilkison, c/CMSgt Steve Cesare, c/CMSgt John Pravongviengkham, c/CMSgt Joseph Pravongviengkham, and c/CMSgt Adam Spanier, could hold their heads high with integrity, knowing they are among the best in the nation.

With the conclusion of the 2010 National Cadet Competition, the AZWG drill team has already started preparations for 2011. Schedules are being planned for try-out, practices, and fundraising. Knowing there are several open positions to fill, the team will hold try-outs in late August. Announcements will be made via wing e-mail. If you would like to be a part of this honored tradition of the AZ Wing, come to try-outs. All dedicated CAP cadets are welcome to participate.

Group II Commander Recognized by CAP National Commander

Group II Commander, Major William Lynam, was recognized recently by Major General Amy S. Courter, Civil Air Patrol National Commander, for his contribution to the online Officer Basic Course.

Officer Basic Course replaced AFIADL 13, the first course normally completed by new CAP Officers and NCOs, offered by the Air Forces Air University.

“It was an interesting challenge,” says Major Lynam, who authored the Vision and Mission statements of the course, “including researching the subject area, generating test questions and working with my liaison, Col Gilbert from the Northeast Region.”

Senior members may register for Officer Basic Course after completing Level 1. Cadets may also take the course, after completion of their Mitchell award. The course, geared towards new Senior Members, covers the Personal, Professional and Organizational dimensions of leadership.

In a letter to Major Leynam, General Courter talks about the importance of the new course. “For Civil Air Patrol to truly meet its potential, our members--especially our senior member officers and noncommissioned officers--must be trained and educated to meet today's and tomorrow's challenges.”

The letter from General Courter can be read here.

2010 AZ WING CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Former Air Force One PIlot COL. MARK TILLMAN, USAF (RET.) to Speak AT 2010 AZ Wing Conference

Former Air Force One Pilot Col. Mark Tillman, USAF(Ret.) will be presenting the Keynote Speech at this years Arizona Wing Conference. Col Tillman served as Chief Pilot of Airforce One and was at the controls for over 49 trips to 75 foreign countries.

As Arizona Wing Civil Air Patrol Members, you have the once in a lifetime opportunity to hear firsthand the experiences of the pilot, who among his many accomplishments, was in command of the Presidential Missions of Air Force one on September 11, 2001.

The Arizona Wing Command Staff is proud to extend this opportunity to you. The video link below conveys the accomplishments of Col Tillman more effectively than words alone. Watch this and you will see why this is an event not to be missed.

Early Registration Pricing has been extended to July 9th to allow all of our members the chance to attend. Wing Conference will be held July 30-31. The Awards Banquet will begin at 7pm on July 31. A link to more details and registration forms is posted below the video.

For Registration, visit the link below. Click on Registration at the top of the page to download a registration form for the 2010 Conference.

http://arizonawing.com/conference/

Summer Vacation?

By: Maj Marilee Taylor
Director of Cadet Programs, Arizona Wing

Ahhhhhh! Summer at last! School is out now it is time for relaxation. Sleeping in, going to the movies, sleep over with friends, trips, swimming, barbeques – time to be lazy.

All the above may be true, unless you were one of the 124 Cadets and 17 Senior
Members of Arizona Wing who recently attended the 2010 Encampment. Ask any one of the 94 cadets who arrived on June 12 what their first thoughts were. For some, it might have been turn around and head back home!

Roaming the grounds of the Evergreen Aviation Facility in Marana, AZ were the 30 cadet staff members who had already been there for two days getting prepared for the basics to arrive. Well, not all were roaming. Some were standing outside hollering for cadets to “get moving” and “get off my grass”! Inside other cadet staff members were checking cadets in and assigning flights. Our Medical Officer took a medical history from each cadet. Meanwhile, some of the Senior Members were outside reassuring parents that they would indeed see their cadets again, after graduation, and others were inside checking for contraband.


That was just the beginning of seven busy days. It was terribly boring – you know, with classes, PT, drill, inspections, firing weapons, participating in DDR activities and games, taking a tour of the Predator site, aircraft “Bone Yard”, and Pima Air Museum. Oh, and we don’t want to forget the CCC (CPR) training and water safety or the tour of the Evergreen Maintenance Facility. Stressful at times? Yes. Boring? Not in the least. So, ask the same cadets who might have been ready to turn around and go home if it was worth staying. I am guessing that you will get a resounding YES!

Putting 94 basic cadets, 30 cadet staff, and 17 senior members together for a week can have its challenges, but all of it is part of the learning and teaching experience. Whether it meant overcoming obstacles to become successful, or developing new leadership skills, everyone came away with an experience they are not likely to forget any time soon.


As the 2010 Arizona Wing Encampment Commander, I congratulate all the cadets who attended encampment as a basic, and thank all the cadet staff and senior members who helped encampment be the success it was. Thank you for the honor of being your Encampment Commander.

Simple Tip for our new ELT Locating Problem

By: Lt Col Charles Bendixen
Emergency Services Officer, Squadron 201

When satellites monitored for 121.5 Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) we bemoaned the fact that their accuracy was no better than about +/- 10 miles in any direction. Now that the 121.5 ELT’s are no longer monitored by satellite, we must depend on the signals being picked up by passing aircraft. If that aircraft is an airliner at 20,000+ feet, it means that the ELT might be anywhere with 50-75 miles. I have a simple hint which may help in locating an ELT under those conditions, but first two examples from my experience.

On 15 Feb 2009 our aircrew from Squadron 201 was tasked with locating an ELT reported by an aircraft over the Tuba City Airport. When no ELT was heard at 11,000 feet over Tuba City, we were then notified that an aircraft near Winslow, Arizona had heard and ELT and CAP Flight 237 was directed to fly to Winslow. Before reaching Winslow, we were directed to fly towards “Northeastern AZ” where another aircraft had heard an ELT. After climbing to 12,500 ft. and heading NE, we eventually picked up an ELT when about 25 miles from Chinle. The active ELT was eventually found in an Air Evac. King Air on the Chinle over 88 miles from the initial ELT report.

My second example occurred on 30 June 2010 when we were notified of an ELT reported over Page, Arizona by an aircraft at 23,000 feet. As we were about 30 miles from PGA I made a call on 122.8 (Unicom) asking if aircraft in the area of PGA would tune in 121.5 and report to me if they heard an ELT. The first response was from and aircraft landing at PGA that none was heard. Shortly thereafter, another response came from an aircraft which was south of Brice Canyon Airport and was hearing a “strong” ELT signal. We were then able to head directly towards Brice Canyon some 85 Nautical Miles (NM) from our current location. Eventually we picked up the ELT and tracked it to the Deer Spring Airport which is a private airport about 20 miles south of Brice Canyon, with a single Cessna 182 sitting on the field, over which our ELT search centered.

I am convinced that by using a simple call on a Unicom frequency, I was able to enlist ELT listening help over a very wide area, which re-directed our search to a localized area. Without this assistance, we would not have located the ELT, which, because of rugged surrounding terrain, could not be heard from more than 15 miles at 10,500 feet.

Moral: A simple call for assistance may help locate an ELT.

DRINK! DRINK! DRINK! ( NOT ALCOHOL)

By: Lt Col Dan Myers
Safety Officer, Arizona Wing

We’ve seen too many CAP Form 78s (mishap notification) and CAP Form 79s (mishap investigation) where a CAP member has become ill from a phenomenon known as dehydration.

Yes, we’ve talked about this before but some pearls of wisdom bear worth repeating as we approach the mid-point of our 101 Critical Days.

Dehydration is a pronounced lack of body fluids, caused most commonly by sweating, excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or evaporation of fluids from the lungs. Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dark yellow to brownish urine, headache, dizziness, very dry “cottonmouth”, difficulty in speaking coherently, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, drowsiness, and fever.

Treatment for dehydration includes avoidance of energy loss and replacement of fluids and salt. Get the victim out of a hot environment, and urge him/her to drink fluids.
Depending on the severity, and if you are uncertain about the assessment, get professional medical help ASAP.

Some tips:

1. Drink all the water you need, even if you are not thirsty and always when thirsty. Some experts recommend six to eight glasses per day under normal circumstances.
2. Drink water while eating. Do not skip meals.
3. Maintain good physical conditioning.
4. Dress for the environment. Light colored cotton clothing with a wide brimmed hat for extended outdoors exposure.
5. Carry light loads.
6. When endurance is going to be a problem, cut down on unnecessary talking. Ration your water.

Do not keep your emergency water supply in plastic bottles which are subject to heat contamination and or mold. Rather, use stainless steel bottles. Lots of them available on the commercial market.

Last but not least, moderate or do not smoke tobacco products or drink alcoholic beverages. These substances rob your body of needed nutrients.

2010 Arizona Wing Encampment

2

Sq302 encampment cadets

Foxtrot encampment photo

Passing of 1st Lt Wolverton, Squadron 308

Dear CAP Family, Friends, and Members.

We have some sad news.  1Lt. Clint Wolverton was taken by cancer and passed away this past Tuesday evening.  Many of you will remember Clint as the Testing Officer and Assistant E.S. Officer for SQD 308.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley, also a CAP Squadron #308 member and past Cadet Commander, as well his wife, Debbie.

A Memorial Service was held at the Tolleson Assembly of God - 10 S. 93rd Ave.,  Tolleson, AZ.  His final Resting Place will be at: Haven Park Cemetery - 6290 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale, AZ.

Please keep in mind and prayer the family friends, and Squadron.

Chaplain (Maj) Ken Young
Deputy Wing Chaplain
Civil Air Patrol - Arizona Wing

 

 

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Show Low Composite Squadron 210 Aerospace Field-trip

By: Capt Susan Drenkahn

Lt Col Edwards invited our squadron to come to visit AERO-FLITE, INC. where the CL- 215 is housed during the winter for maintenance.

CL-215 aircraft is designed to fight fires in places like Minnesota.

Here are a few interesting fact about the aircraft. The speed is 157 knots when loaded. The plane holds 1400 U.S. Gallons of water at 1000 U. S. Gallons of Retardant. The plane is designed to scoop down on lakes with a scooping distance of 5,365 feet. Another interesting fact is that the plane must have a minimum depth of water source of 6 feet. The time the plane is fueled to the time it needs refueling is approximately 4 hours. The pilots of the plane continue to fill up the planes with water every 90 seconds.

Lt. Col Edwards has flown many types of planes. We are in the process of doing the AEX program and we used this opportunity for the field-trip portion of the program. We want to personally thank him again for inviting us to visit. (Photo: Squadron 210 cadets with Lt Col Edwards - submitted by Capt Drenkahn)

Arizona Wing Google Calendar

Arizona Wing now has a Google Calendar. The Google Calendar will enable our members to link the Wing calendar to their personal calendar programs, mobile devices and see events from anywhere.

If your squadron has a Google Calendar, or if you have an event you'd like to add, you can share it with the Arizona Wing Public Affairs Staff. Once you share your event or calendar, the PAO Staff will be able to add your events to the Wing Calendar.

Arizona Wing YouTube Playlist

Cochise Composite Squadron 107 Cadet completes Eagle Scout Project

By: Major Ryan Newman, Cochise Composite Squadron 107

On a beautifully clear Saturday morning, C/Amn William Newman of Sierra Vista Squadron 107, and more than twenty volunteers gathered at the Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery to carry out a day of hard work. This day of work was the culmination of three months of planning, gathering approvals and fund-raising for William’s Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project. Since the inception of Scouting in America, there have been more than two million boys who have attained the Rank of Eagle Scout.

The Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project has evolved from 1927, when the requirement to “show satisfactory service” for advancement to Eagle Scout was adopted. In 1952 the requirement was further defined to “do our best to help in your home, school, church or synagogue, and community.” In 1965 the requirement to specifically conduct a “service project” was incorporated. The Eagle Scout candidate was required to “plan, develop, and carry out a leadership project.” In 1972, the most recent change to the Eagle Project requires that leadership be demonstrated “during the service project.”

Since “Leadership” is the order of the day, Life Scout William Newman planned a project where there could be no question of his ability to organize and lead the efforts of many volunteers to complete a project that will benefit the entire Sierra Vista and Fort Huachuca communities. There are numerous civic and veteran organizations that conduct Flag Retirement Ceremonies for the community. The retirement ceremony is performed in many differing ways by many organizations and none is incorrect – if it is performed “in a dignified way.”

The problem has not been the method, but the location. Because no single facility exists for such ceremonies, it has been performed over burn barrels, rust covered grills and other burn devices. Making a mental note of this deficiency, C/Amn Newman worked with Joe Larson, Administrator of the Southern Arizona Veterans‘ Memorial Cemetery, to design, fund-raise for materials and lead a team of volunteers to build a suitable facility to carry out Flag Retirement ceremonies. The plan was developed with the guidance of Mr. Larson before being proposed to the Scouting Leadership. After weeks of review, changes and three levels of Scout approval, C/Amn Newman was given the approval to proceed beyond the planning phase.

Now the real work began as C/Amn Newman was able to begin ordering materials and conduct fund-raising. Seeking the best deals on materials took C/Amn Newman to several building supply establishments. With a materials bill that is almost one thousand dollars, he has a formidable fund-raising challenge. Fortunately, the service and veterans organizations were impressed with C/Amn Newman’s project and begin contributing financially. After two written applications and four public presentations C/Amn Newman acquired the funds needed to set a date for his project. Consulting with Mr. Larson, the project was scheduled for the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. Fast forward to 29 May and C/Amn Newman, along with more than twenty volunteers converge on the Veterans’ Cemetery for a day of hard work. There now exists a facility fitting for conducting Flag Retirement Ceremonies in Sierra Vista and C/Amn Newman is one large step closer to Eagle Scout.

Memorial Day holds Significance for Deer Valley Composite Squadron 302 Cadet

By: Lt Matthew Costabile, Assistant Public Affairs Officer for Cadet Activities, Arizona Wing

Memorial Day services at the National Memorial Cemetery of Phoenix held a special significance for C/Amn Cody Cassano of Deer Valley Squadron 302. Just over two years ago, Cadet Cassano's uncle, Sgt David Mumford (ret.) was laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery after being killed by a drunk driver while riding his motorcycle in suburban Phoenix.

Following Memorial Day Ceremonies, Cadets of the Deer Valley Squadron 302 Color Guard presented the colors over Sgt Mumford’s gravestone, accompanied by C/Amn Cody Cassano and his father SM Paul Cassano. "He was my brother in law, my friend and my son's uncle" said SM Paul Cassano, who is the Orientation and Retention Officer for Squadron 302. "It meant a lot to have him recognized by our Squadron Color Guard who took the moment to share in the grief we still feel at having lost a fine man and soldier."

London Bridge Composite Squadron 501 Breaks Ground for New Trailer

By: Major George Molitor, London Bridge Composite Squadron 501

The London Bridge Composite Squadron 501 has been meeting in a 30 year old trailer they brought from Tucson in 1986. It has been at both the "island" airport and in 1991, moved to it's present location. The years have taken their toll on this unit with numerous roof leaks, deteriorating walls and floors. Last Thanksgiving we were informed that a "new" trailer was available in Sierra Vista and we made an offer and got the 14 X 60 trailer.

Over the past few months Sq 501 has been raising funds, making contact with contractors and agencies getting permits and drawings, negotiating terms for the site for the unit and generally getting all of their ducks in a row for this new, much larger meeting place. Our fund-raising has been successful. the permit process is finally at City Hall being processed, soil samples have been sent to the lab and we are now moving forward with the setting up of our NEW home! Although we still have a lot of work to do, Squadron members are excited about our future with over twice the room we are accustomed to. The grand opening ceremony will be announced in a few weeks.

Do you know who you are serving with?

By: Lt Col Brian N. Ready, Vice Wing Commander, Arizona Wing

Events of the last few weeks have made me think I really don’t know who I am serving with in CAP. I don’t mean in a bad way like a predictable novel or reality TV show, but a realization to look beyond the present. If you think of your CAP experiences, it is usually with a group of people who are recent acquaintances and we don’t really know everyone’s past.

This became evident to me recently while reading the biography of Chaplain (Lt Col) Morris Courtright. I knew Morris Courtright as a CAP Chaplain, Mission Pilot and long time member, however I was unaware of his other career accomplishments. Chaplain Courtright was a retired Air Force officer, served as a Network Controller on the manned spaceflight Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs and as Chief of Computer Operations for the worldwide satellite tracking and data gathering network to name a few. As a fan of the manned spaceflight program, I missed an opportunity to spend time with a spaceflight pioneer.

The pace of today’s life is fast and furious leaving little time for reflection. I now believe we need to take the time to learn more about the people we service with in CAP. At your next CAP meeting, set time aside to really get to know the people you serve with, I bet you will be surprised.

Chaplain Courtright, thank you for a life lesson and May you rest in peace.

Chaplain (Lt Col) Morris Courtright, Jr. Passes Away

Morris “Court” Courtright, PhD, 80, passed away May 29th, 2010, was born in Saginaw, Michigan. He is survived by Phyllis Courtright and their eleven children: Helen Bates, Pat (Gary) Blackman, Pam (Carl) Gilray, Michael (Dorothy) Courtright, Debby (Dennis) Miller, Elaine (Brad) Ruffcorn, Eileen (Steve) Emmert, David (Michelle) Courtright, Greg (Rachel) Courtright, Kathy (Bob) Briggs, Brenda (Tom) Torrence; two brothers Harry and Jim Courtright, a sister Shirley Spencer; 40 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Court was a retired Air Force officer, a Manned Spaceflight pioneer, and a Catholic priest. His Air Force career included tours in Japan and Korea, earning a BS (EE) at University of Colorado, serving as Network Controller for the early manned spaceflight programs Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. He completed his career as Chief of Computer Operations for the worldwide satellite tracking and data gathering network.

His awards included the DOD Commendation medal and the USAF Commendation medal with Oak Leaf Cluster; Distinguished Unit Citation; Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Medal with bronze star; Air Force longevity with silver oak leaf; Reserve Forces Medal; NCO Academy Ribbon; Marksman Medal; and Missileman badge.

Court completed a second career as a consulting electrical engineer designing maintaining and operating radio stations throughout the Southwest, designing electrical systems for schools, hospitals, commercial buildings, street lighting, freeway lighting and airport lighting. He was an adjunct professor at Northern Arizona University, served as an instructor at Gateway Community College, and was Business Department Chairman at Xavier College Preparatory School. He received his MS/ (EE) and Ph.D. from Columbia Pacific University. Court served two terms in the Arizona State Legislature, where, among other things, he was able to have the sales tax taken off food, which is still in effect today. Ordained a nondenominational minister in Sept 2003, he then attended Agape Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, received his Master of Divinity and was ordained a Catholic priest January 2006. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and State Deputy (1986-87). Court received his pilot’s license in 1978 and also was a Ham operator (KC7RDZ).

Court moved to San Manuel, Arizona, in 1997. Because of his interest in flying and being a pilot, he liked the small town and the close proximity to an airport. San Manuel pilots were working hard to get the airport improved in order to bring interest to the town. Court had a good friend at ADOT in Phoenix. They got their “know-how” together and moved the San Manuel Airport toward what it is today. He formed the San Manuel Economic Development Corporation with the hopes and dreams for San Manuel to grow and prosper. He was a member of the San Manuel Elks Lodge #2007, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, National Rifle Association, Retired Officers Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and a lifetime member of Mensa. He was a member of the Civil Air Patrol (Air Force Auxiliary) since 1949 and held many responsible positions in that National Search and Rescue Organization. He also served as the Arizona Wing Chaplain for the Civil Air Patrol for the past 4 years. He had many friends, and he will certainly be missed.

Squadron 313 Fox 10 News Video Footage

Arizona Wing Pilot Inducted into Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame

Arizona Wing member Major Barbara Harper, a pilot belonging to Group I, was inducted into the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame recently.

Major Harper has been a member of CAP since 1971, and has worked extensively with the FAA and aviation organizations to improve aviation communication and and increase flight safety.

A feature was published in General Aviation News, and was also mentioned in CAP's National Public Affairs website, Volunteer Now.

National HQ Approves MOU with Pima County

Originally posted by: William Rogers Memorial Squadron 104

Wing Commander Col. Eggen announced on Saturday June 5 2010 that the MOU with Pima County has been approved by National and will be sent to Wing for Col. Eggen's signature.

Once signed the MOU will be returned to Pima County where it will go before the County Board of Supervisors for approval. After being approved by the board other local governments will be able to utilize CAP through the MOU.

Arizona Wing Units Receive Safety Excellence Award from CAP National Commander

Twenty one units in the Arizona Wing received Certificates of Achievement in Safety Excellence from Major General Amy Courter, CAP National Commander.

The certificates recognize the units with zero mishaps in 2009 involving aircraft, vehicle or bodily injury incidents or accidents.

The following units were recognized:

Arizona Wing HQ
Group I HQ
Group II HQ
Group III HQ
Santa Cruz Composite Squadron
William Rogers Memorial Squadron
Cochise Composite Squadron
Neotoma Composite Squadron
Yuma Composite Squadron
Verde Valley Flight
Prescott Composite Squadron
Cottonwood Cadet Squadron
London Bridge Composite Squadron
Sky Harbor Composite Squadron
Falcon Field Composite Squadron
Paradise Valley Cadet Squadron
Scottsdale Senior Squadron
Casa Grande Composite Squadron
Deer Valley Composite Squadron
Glendale Composite Squadron
Goodyear Senior Squadron

Air Force Launches Critical Days of Summer Campaign

From the Joint Service Safety Campaign

S is for Summer ... and Safety too!
It's that time of year again! Spring is here in full force, summer is right around the corner and that can only mean one thing - time for the Air Force to kick off the Critical Days of Summer safety campaign, May 28 through September 7.

As much as you would like to think that nothing could happen to you, the fact is, the real statistics are pretty grim...

Some risks are constant, but summer brings increased activity which brings increased risk.

Twenty eight Airmen have already died in off-duty mishaps so far this year, and typically we lose about 19 over the summer. Many others sadly take their own lives.
Now, does any of this mean the Air Force expects you to cower under your dining room table all summer? Of course not! Everyone knows that life itself comes with inherent risks. Some of you may even be thinking, "this is a small number out of 330,000 Airmen ... that's not too bad!" But how many of you would volunteer your best friend, or even yourself, as one of that "small number?"
The goal then is very simple: Every Airman must set a personal goal of ZERO preventable mishaps for themselves and everyone around them. To achieve this goal, every commander must provide guidance, policy and resources. Every safety professional, from the Safety Center down to your unit safety representative, will work tirelessly to keep you educated and prepared to safely enjoy your off-duty time this summer.

But here's the rub: We can only do so much educating -- nobody but you will be there to make the right decisions when the critical moments occur.
Your commander won't be sitting in the passenger seat when you've had a few too many to drink and are about to drive home.

The Air Force surgeon general won't be at your dorm to read the signs that one of your peers is feeling suicidal.

The director of the Safety Center won't be at the boat launch handing out life vests to you and your kids.

The only one who can make the decisions critical to your survival is you.
Fortunately, the steps required to keep you and everyone around you safe are very simple: Think about the worst-case scenario and then decide if you've done everything you could to eliminate or at least minimize the risk. If you do that and decide you can't live with the consequences, chances are it's time for a new plan.

We want each and every one of you around at the end of the 2010 Critical Days of Summer - the choice is yours.

News Sharing Just Got Easier

News sharing just got easier across Arizona Wing! With a new service, posts to the Arizona Wing Social Blog are now automatically posted to the Wing Twitter and Facebook pages.

This will enable us to spread news across the wing much faster, and easier.

Group IV Graduates 20 from Cadet ALS/NCOA

By: Staff Sergeant Phillip Kittelson
Group IV Public Affairs Officer

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, ARIZ.--This Memorial Day weekend wasn't spent lightly by a group of CAP members from Group IV. They spent their vacation time at Luke Air Force Base, leaning how to become better cadets.

Twenty cadets, from across Group IV, attend the joint Cadet Airmen Leadership School and Non-Commissioned Officers Academy. Both schools, targeting specific ranks and responsibility levels, include instruction on uniform wear, leadership, followership, drill and ceremonies and other facets of the CAP Cadet Program.

“We would like to thank Luke Air Force Base, for allowing us to use their facilities. If it wasn't for the base, we could not have made this happen,” says Major David Gregor, course director for both schools. “Special appreciation also needs to go to the parents of students. They were so patient while we shuttled their cadets back and forth to the gates. And especially to Lt Col Wanamaker, for being our stand-by driver and escort.”

After Great Start, CAP's version of “boot camp” for cadet members, the next sanctioned course is Cadet Officer School. Airmen Leadership School and NCO Academy fill in the long gap between the two structured courses, and provide a much needed learning environment outside of normal weekly meetings.

Major Matthew Fields, Group IV Commander, was on hand for the graduation and presentation of certificates. “I'm very proud of what we have going on here, with the joint courses. It allowed us the opportunity to show our newer Cadet Airmen that their professional development continues as their rank, and subsequent responsibly, increases.”

At the ceremony, Major Gregor presented Major Fields with a gift from the students for his support to the program.

Another joint ALS/NCOA is already in the works for this fall. Those interested in attending, should talk to their Squadron Leadership Officer or cadet commander.

To see pictures of the activity click here.

Group IV Chaplin Selected for Wing CISO

By: Staff Sergeant Phillip Kittelson
Assistant Wing Public Affairs Officer for Social Media

Chaplain Bill Roberts, Group IV Chaplain, has been selected as the Arizona Wing Critical Incident Stress Management Officer.

According to CAP NHQ, the goals of a Critical Incident Stress Management program include the stabilization of psychological functioning, mitigation of psychological dysfunction or distress, return to psychological functioning, and facilitation to a higher level of care if needed.

Chaplain Roberts, a long time member of both Group IV and the Frank Luke Jr Cadet Squadron, has been a chaplain for over 25 years, mostly with the Southern Baptist Convention.

Arizona Wing Revamps Social Footprint

By: Staff Sergeant Phillip Kittelson
Arizona Wing Assistant Public Affairs Officer for Social Media

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, ARIZ--The Arizona Wing of the Civil Air Patrol has revamped it's social media presence.  Now available on Facebook and Twitter, the Wing will be able to share news and information with it's members and the general public in real time.

"With the internet being the primary source of information for individuals born after 1987, social media is quickly becoming mainstream media." says Navy Captain John Kirby, Special Assistant for Public Affairs to Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairmen of the Join Chiefs of Staff. "Facebook is now the second most popular website in the United States behind Google. In January alone, Facebook attracted 134 million unique visitors and Twitter another 23.5 million. People are increasingly turning to these sites as their primary source of news and for sharing information with others. This follows the larger trend of demanding content be pushed to the user rather than users seeking it out on a website. The numbers alone demonstrate the necessity of engaging on social media platforms."

The trend across CAP, and quite noticeably, the military services, is changing towards using social media to spread their message.  The Air Force, with a long stance against allowing Airmen to access Facebook and other sites on government computers, has changed it's policies and now allows the use of such media.

Arizona wing invites you to take a look at it's new pages here:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AZWingCAP

Twitter: http://twitter.com/AZWingCAP

Social Blog: http://caparizona.blogspot.com/

London Bridge Composite Squadron 501 Cadet receives Scholarship

By: Written By: Capt Joel Cosmano, LBCS 501 DCC

C/2d Lt Jacob Christman has been in the London Bridge Composite Squadron since 29 May 2007.

He has held positions in the squadron such as, element leader, flight commander, and now Cadet Deputy Commander. His dedication to his squadron has been great as he drives from Parker, Arizona for the meetings, some 30 miles away.

He holds one more post now, and that is he is going to be a student in the ARMY. In the photo he holds a check to attend the ARMY ROTC with a Scholarship of over 173,000, plus another 7000 in grants so he can become a pilot flying the Army's most advanced helicopters. C/2d Lt Christman gives some of his credits to Civil Air Patrol, but it was his hard work that paid off.