Left to Right: Cadet Senior Airman, Phillip Easter, age 15, Cadet Airman 1st Class, David Willis, age 14, and Cadet Airman 1st Class, Kelli Bradley, age 13.

The Civil Air Patrol was highlighted this past week as three cadets were given their orientation flight at the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional Airport on Sunday, March 11. The three cadets are ages 13, 14, and 15. Major Tom Bly, Squadron Commander said about the young cadets: “Mentoring them is just a privilege. They are motivated, responsible, and respectful young men and women. They are our future leaders and we are proud to know each and every one.”
The Civil Air Patrol is the auxiliary of the United States Air Force. It was founded in December 1941, just one week before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. 150,000 who were concerned about the defense of America’s coastline began the program. Today there are 1600 squadrons nationwide and about 62,000 members and 27,000 cadets, all volunteers. The cadets and senior members have Air Force style uniforms and rank. The three primary missions are Cadet Programs, Emergency Services, and Aerospace Education. The slogan of CAP is: “Citizens Serving Communities . . . Above and Beyond!”
Civil Air Patrol is open to all youth ages 12 through 18 as well adults. Senior members are from all walks of life and occupations, not just pilots. For information concerning cadets and adults or to volunteer for this great program, contact the Shelby Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol at 704-313-8327 or on line at www.capshelby.com. On Tuesdays between 6 and 8:30 p.m. and on every third Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests are welcomed at the Squadron at 832 College Avenue, next to the Shelby-Cleveland County Regional Airport.
– M. A. Andrews• Photos Courtesy: Tony Bradley, SM, CAP