Civil Air Patrol
December 2024
Save the date
To: All CAP Members
From: Alaska Wing Communications Program, Education and Training
Subject: Virtual HF Radio Training Conference
When: December 28, 2024, start time 1000 Alaska time
The Conference
Alaska Wing will conduct the first of two sections of the Virtual HF Radio Training Conference.
• On-line HF radio training for all levels of HF radio experience, from beginners to experienced.
• Open to all CAP members, including senior members and cadets.
• Who should participate:
o Anyone who wants to better understand HF radio basics
o Anyone who wants to participate in the August 2025 Twenty Seconds More exercise.
• Morning Classroom session: 1000 - 1200 Alaska Time
o No prerequisites, the only requirement is internet access.
o Topics will be basics of HF radio propagation and Micom radio orientation.
• Noon Hands-on session: 1230 – 1330
o Prerequisites – Morning session attendance, ICUT, access to a Micom radio.
o Topics: Establishing an HF net, Checking in to an HF net, Individual coaching via Zoom.
How to register:
• Sign in EServices https://www.capnhq.gov/
• Go to Registration Zone ->Event Registration -> Filter (select Virtual) ->select Alaska Wing HF
Radio Training Conference ->Press the Register button
After you register, on 27 December, you will receive an emailed link to join the conference. You will also receive a conference worksheet.
For more information contact 1Lt. Michele Bremer, mbremer@cap.gov
1st Lt. Michele Bremer
Alaska Wing Retention Officer
Twenty Seconds More Project Officer
Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary
2024 AKWG Cadet Competition
Lakehood
Polaris
2025 Alaska Wing Powered and Glider Flight Academy
Tok
Brichwood
Arcturus
Kenai
Fairbanks 9Th
Cadet Invest
In Memoriam: Chaplain Eric Wiseman
Alaska Wing Character Development Instructors Unite!
Alaska Wing Member Receives Meritorious Service Award
Creative Photos and Writing Welcome
November Wing SARex
Interview
1Lt. Mary Stella
Col. Kevin McClure
TWAS The Night Before Christmas
Alaska Wing “ State of the Wing”
Mini F- 16 Photo
Pick.Clik.Give
Alaska Wing Staff Emails
Organization Wing Staff Chart
Organization Squadrons and Flight chart
Tail Section
2024 AKWG Cadet Competition
By Capt. Karen Padgett
Alaska Wing hosted our 2024 Cadet Competition December 6-7 in Anchorage. 6 teams/33 cadets competed. 9 units participated (including staff) from squadrons extending across 850 miles. 45 total cadets and 20 Senior .
CONG TULATIONS TO
the Kodiak (1st place) and Polaris (2nd place) teams.
Congratulations to all participants for learning a lot and having fun together!
Cadet Participants
Lake Hood
By: C/Capt Wegemer
Hard work from Cadet Staff & Cadet Competition excitement
The Lake Hood cadet staff have been working hard as the term starts to near its end. C/2d Lt. Bennett has been working tirelessly at providing interactive Emergency Services training to Lake Hood cadets. C/2d Lt. Engeberg and C/SMSgt Davis have been mentoring cadets and providing guidance on drill and other aspects of cadet life as flight sergeant and flight commander. Recruiting and retention C/A1C Mayer has been leading new cadets to start their cadet careers.
The Lake Hood Cadet Competition team led an outstanding example at the 2024 Alaska Wing Cadet Competition. C/SMSgt. Selby, C/ SMSgt. Ezra Engeberg, C/A1C Welter, and C/SMSgt. Davis competed in events such as physical training, standard colors drill, and uniform preparation. Lake Hood took home 2nd place in the indoor posting event! The team has been training for the past few months, and gave it their all at this year's competition.
In other cadet competition related news, 7 Lake Hood senior members and cadets staffed this year's competition. The staff members underwent training to help prepare for the event, and helped in areas such as support, event marshaling, and chief judging. This has been a truly outstanding year for Lake Hood Cadet Squadron!
Capt. Karen Padgett promoting 1st Lt Yuki Meaders to Capt.
C/SMSgt Ezra Engeberg accepting the 2nd place award for indoor posting of the colors from C/Maj. Reagan Benedict
The Polaris Squadron continues to excel in its mission to develop leadership, aerospace knowledge, and a strong sense of discipline among its cadets. During a meeting on 19 November, the squadron conducted a ground school session, focusing on foundational aviation principles and skills. Cadets learned about navigation, aircraft systems, all of which are essential for future pilots and aviation enthusiasts. The interactive session allowed cadets to engage in discussions and handson activities, sparking curiosity and a deeper understanding of aerospace topics. This focus on aviation education highlights the squadron’s commitment to preparing cadets for careers in aerospace and service to their communities.
In addition to the ground school, the meeting also emphasized physical fitness (PT), an integral part of the Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program. Through a series of structured exercises and teambuilding activities, cadets worked on improving their endurance, strength, and overall health. PT sessions not only promote physical well-being but also instill discipline, resilience, and teamwork. These dual focuses— academic growth in aviation and physical fitness—illustrate Polaris Squadron’s dedication to holistic
cadet development. The cadets left the meeting motivated and better equipped to pursue their personal and collective goals, embodying the values of Civil Air Patrol.
In addition to ground school, Polaris Squadron recognized C/TSgt. Tesch receiving a challenge coin from his achievements during the COMEX in September.
In November, the Polaris Color Guard team dedicated time to preparing for the upcoming wing competition. Polaris Squadron is proud to recognize their dedication and achievement in winning second place at the Wing Cadet Competition on 7 December. Their dedication and hardwork will continue to shine when they attend the Pacific Region Cadet Competition in 2025!
C/TSgt. Tesch getting his Award
2025 Alaska Wing Powered and Glider Flight Academy
Application Deadline Nears (12/31/24)
December 31, 2024 at 8pm Alaska Time marks the deadline for the 2025 Alaska Wing Powered Flight Academy (Distributed) and Glider Flight Academy.
The application was emailed to all Alaska Wing cadets and parents of cadets on 10/4/24 from Capt Skylar Caldwell, AKWG Director of Cadet Programs (skylar. caldwell@akwg.cap.gov).
You can find the application and details regarding the 2025 AKWG flight academies in the memo attached to this webpage: https://akwg.cap.gov/programs/cp/activities/ fa
The more items you can complete on the application before 12/31/24, the better your chances for selection. Recommendations for tasks such as obtaining your Student Pilots Certificate, your FAA Medical, completing ground school, and taking your FAA Written Test can be found here (scroll through the entire webpage): https://akwg. cap.gov/programs/cp/flighttraining
To help fund your flight training, apply for CAP CadetInvest, and consider applying for additional aviation scholarships: CadetInvest (1/14/25 deadline): https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/ cadetinvest
CAP Flight Scholarships (part of CadetInvest): https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/ programs/cadets/cadetinvest/flight-scholarships
CAP Activity Scholarships (including flight academies, part of CadetInvest): https:// www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/cadetinvest/activity-scholarships
Nationwide non-CAP Scholarships:https://akwg.cap.gov/programs/cp/scholarships
Cadet Wings (opening July 1, 2025--you need your Student Pilot Certificate, FAA Medical, Passing FAA Written test, and ideally a solo endorsement to qualify)
We look forward to reviewing your applications and helping you through your flight training journey!!
Capt Karen Padgett
AKWG Cadet Wings Point of Contact & Activity Director for the 2025 AKWG Powered Flight Academy
Capt. Karen L Padgett
Pacific Region Assistant Cadet Activities Officer
Alaska Wing Assistant Director of Cadet Programs Lake Hood Cadet Squadron, Anchorage, Alaska
Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 907.350.8533
karen.padgett@akwg.cap.gov
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA in TOK ALASKA
Now participating for the 6th consecutive year, the Tok Composite Squadron, pays special respect to our Veterans. This is the placement of a wreath upon each and every veterans gravesite in December. In 2022, 2.7 million wreaths were placed at nearly 3,700 cemeteries across our nation.
Started several decades ago in 1992, the Worcester Wreath Company found themselves with a surplus of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season. Remembering his boyhood experience at Arlington, Worcester realized he had an opportunity to honor our country’s veterans.
That experience dated back to a time when he won a trip to Washington D.C as a 12 year old paper boy. It was his first trip to our nation’s capital and one that would change the trajectory of his life and the lives of millions of others across the country.
Seeing the thousands of graves and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery made an especially indelible impression on him. It was to be an experience that would follow him throughout his life and successful career, reminding him that his good fortune was due, in large part, to the values of his nation and the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Starting out very small with one truck load of donated Wreaths this program has now become a non-profit hitting all 50 states with millions of Wreaths. The Mission of "Wreath Across America" is to; Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.
The Tok Composite Squadron salutes the local business and individuals who contributed, advancing the success of
Wreaths Across America. We honor the businesses who contributed buying blocks of ten wreaths: 40 Mile Air, Alaska Power & Telephone, Burnham Construction, Burnt Paw, Fast Eddies, NAPA, Northern Energy, Interior Bus Lines, Tetlin Wildlife Refuge, Three Bears, Tok Transportation, Youngs Chevron, as well as the the Individuals who purchase one or more wreaths for placement at the Tok Cemetery.
By: Capt. Richard Dennis, PAO
This past Saturday, 14 December 2024 the Tok Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol conducted a ceremony whereby the 73 veterans interned here were honored.
Birchwood cadets have had a great month. For safety night, C/A1C Alana Morgan and C/A1C Olivia Morgan gave an exciting presentation about winter safety, driving safety, and snow removal safety. A lot was learned and cadets have been using their knowledge to stay safe.
Cadet of the month for November
C/A1C Alana Morgan, she has been incredibly helpful and involved in the squadron. She is currently one of the Supply Airman and an Alpha flight element leader. She participates actively and helps out in many different roles.
Photo by: Lt. Benedict
Brichwood
Written by: C/SrA Evann Haddock
On aerospace night, C/SMSgt. Wood gave a presentation about Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, staff training was conducted, and cadets got to enjoy fun Team Leadership Problems (TLPs). Like many other squadrons, Birchwood conducts bearings contests.
On PT night, a new system was implemented, where if a cadet's bearing was broken, the cadet would then do PT. This, as well as regular PT testing, ensured that all the cadets were sweating, motivated, and definitely had improved bearing.
CONG TULATIONS
to the following cadets who received promotions in the month of November:
C/Amn Frederick Barnette (Curry)
C/Amn Jentry Francis (Curry)
C/Amn Paxson Yelverton (Curry)
C/Amn Gavin Roelfs (Curry)
C/A1C Riley Cole (Ach 2)
C/A1C Zachary Kenney (Ach 2)
C/SrA Jacob Foreman (Ach 3)
C/SrA Alana Morgan (Ach 3)
C/SrA Olivia Morgan (Ach 3)
C/Maj. Reagan Benedict (Ach 16)
Promoted cadets left to right-Foreman-A Morgan-R Cole-Kenney-O Morgan-Yelverton-RoelfsFrancis-Benedict
CadetRoryWaltman CadetKeeganGarvens CadetJaydenRivers
On promotion night, cadets got to enjoy a Thanksgiving potluck. Those who were promoted celebrated with their friends, family, and a grand feast.
Although the weather is turning colder, the Arcturus Squadron has maintained a high tempo with all their activities. Both Senior Member Elise Shook and Senior Member Dave Shook taught aerospace education. They focused on renewable energy, how it is made, side effects, and benefits to it. The lesson focused on different models using different energy sources. Some of the models used solar power and used different types of light to power the solar panels. Also, one of the cars used hydrogen power. Cadets were split into 4 groups last month each group made a car that was a little different from one to another. This month each group’s car was tested to see how efficient the energy was.
This Month C/Capt. Martin taught ground search and rescue (GSAR). He talked about the importance of K9 units in GSAR. These specialized dogs help in tracking, trailing, and using the different scents in the outdoors. C/Capt. Martin also focused on the canine specialties such as Air-Scenting Dogs work best in wilderness environments, collapsed structures, looking for cadavers, weapons searches and other types of evidence. Another specialized dog, trailing dogs, follows the trail of dead skin cells left when a person brushes up against objects or that fall of the body naturally. The squadron learned that using specialized K9 units that there is a higher chance of finding the objective faster, up to 80% on the first search.
C/2d Lt. Jonathan Maierson was teaching the cadets uniform standards and expectations. C/SrA Davidson and C/MSgt. Frye assisted in uniform demonstrations.
This month, several cadets were promoted to higher ranks.
CONG TULATIONS
By : Maj. Jan Bobek
Every Monday 6:30 to 8:30 Kenai Cadets make Aerospace, Leadership, Health Fitness Zone/Safety, and Character Development Presentations. Cadets do a wonderful job teaching other cadets. C/CMSgt. Noah Cole made a presentation on Leadership VS Followership. He stressed leading and following have their appropriate place. Recognize the difference in different situations. Cadets listened well andappreciate his leadership in the Cadet Program.
Cadets continue to get Orientation flights which keep cadets focused and interested in the program.
Cadets are studying hard to become pilots.
One volunteer opportunity this month was the Kenai Craft Fair. Cindy Finwall helped organize the event. The cadets who participated were: Thomas Anthony, Declan Cobb, Trey Davis, Elodie Frisk, Victor Henderson, Zion Henderson and Landen McGahan. Dr. Frisk also worked a lot! They helped moving tables, chairs, and craft items. They also swept the gym floor! The vendors were very appreciative. The cadets enjoyed helping community members and working hard. We are very proud of them.
WELCOME TO
our new cadet: Gunnar Jensen He is excellent addition to our squadron. CAP is a positive force in communities all over the United States. Cadets are good examples of
hard working human beings. Cadets make family life, community events and life in general much better. The Cadet Program makes everyone better!
CONG TULATIONS TO
We are very proud of their efforts and hard work and constant determination. Cadets worked very hard and passed many achievements this month.
Fletcher Darr
Achievement 2: Vincent Traugott. Wright Brothers: Aiden Quinlan.
Achievement 4: Titus Potvin and Joshua Lattin.
8:
Achievement 5: Madeline Ries and Jon Broussard.
Achievement 7: Thomas Anthony.
Achievement 8: Clayton Greenwald
Fairbanks- 9th
Summary and photos credit C/MSgt Hannah Long.
With the arrival of November, winter is in full swing. As there are over twentyfive cadets attending regular meetings, the Ninth Composite Squadron now boasts two cadet flights, Alpha and Bravo, and on PT night, the two flights brainstormed ideas for a flight motto and chant, as well as completing the standard PT routine.
On Blues night, several cadets promoted.
During this month’s aerospace night, C/CMSgt. C. Long, our Aerospace NCOIC, taught an engaging and informative class on rocketry, while his assistant, C/SSgt. Greenwood, taught cadets how to make stomp rockets.
Alpha and Bravo flights prepare to recite the pledge of allegiance.
C/SrAmn Boyer and C/A1C Bowlin listen in class.
What do you think of PT? C/MSgt. Grossglauser says ‘Smile’ and C/ CMSgt. C. Long can’t fathom why.
https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/
https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/
https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/
https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/cadetinvest/usafa-preparatory-school-
https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/cadetinvest
In Memoriam: Chaplain Eric Wiseman
We are saddened to announce the passing of Alaska WIng's beloved Chaplain Eric Wiseman. Chaplain Wiseman, or Father Eric as some of us referred to him, joined the Civil Air Patrol in Valdez in 2017 and served enthusiastically at several encampments and as a Character Development Instructor for Valdez Squadron, Polaris Squadron, and Lake Hood Cadet Squadron cadets. Many thanks to Lt. Col. James McIntyre for originally having encouraged Chaplain Wiseman to join the Civil Air Patrol.
Chaplain Wiseman's memorial service was recorded and is available at this link: https:// www.facebook.com/share/v/15RAJZfe93/
The homily, a very interesting story of Father Eric's life, begins at 26 minutes into the recording and ends at 46 minutes. All of you who knew Chaplain Wiseman will love hearing the stories!
Chaplain Wiseman's family plans to host a Celebration of Life for him in Alaska in Summer 2025.
Rest in Peace, sir!
ALASKA WING CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT INSTRUCTORS UNITE!
by Capt Karen Padgett, AKWG CDI
The first-ever Alaska Wing Character Development Instructor (CDI) meeting was held on 12/6/24 in Anchorage during the cadet competition.
We plan to meet quarterly at 6 pm Alaska Time on the 3rd Wednesday of January, April, July, and October, right before the DCC call that month.
The first quarterly virtual meeting is scheduled for 6-6:45 pm on Wednesday, 1/15/25, on Google Meet code aak-zpnn-ajn. (NOTE: this is a different date than the date listed in the meeting handout)
We discussed the following CDI resources at the 12/6/24 meeting:
· ABSORB:
o Values for Living Curriculum under “Resources”
o CD Facilitator Training: Available to all. Encourage cadet leaders to take the training (~2hr)
o Basic Instructor Course (~4hr)
· Gocivilairpatrol.com:
o Members ->Publications: Application CAFP 80-2, Specialty Track Handbook CAPP 80-40, Guiding Regulation CAPR 80-1
o Values for Living Curriculum (except proprietary video links) available to all. Search “Values”
o Members -> National Staff Areas -> Chaplain Corps -> Education & Training
· eServices: CAPCCARS (under Chaplain tab, available only to CDIs) ->Chaplain Corps Reporting -> Red Pulldown menu ->Chaplain Corps Activity Reporting
· AKWG website: http://akwg.cap.gov/programs/cp/cd
CDIs are considered a part of the Chaplain Corps. Current members of the AKWG Chaplain/CDI Corps are listed below. If you are interested in applying to become a CDI, please contact Capt Karen Padgett, AKWG CDI, at karen.padgett@akwg.cap.gov for guidance on navigating the multi-step application process.
Capt. Karen L. Padgett
Pacific Region Assistant Cadet Activities Officer
Alaska Wing Assistant Director of Cadet Programs
Lake Hood Cadet Squadron, Anchorage, Alaska
Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 907.350.8533
karen.padgett@akwg.cap.gov
Alaska Wing Member Receives Meritorious Service Award
By: Capt. Karen Padgett
Lt. Col. Kristin Freeman, CAP, distinguished herself in the performance of outstanding meritorious service to Civil Air Patrol as the Assistant Director of Communications, Alaska Wing during the period 15 August 2024 to 28 September 2024.
During this period, Lt .Col. Freeman planned and coordinated the Alaska Wing’s 2024 Annual Communication Effectiveness Evaluation in an outstanding manner that reflects highly upon herself, her Wing and Civil Air Patrol. The exercise was focused on HF radio communications with VHF and ReadyOp used to support communications as needed or to link VHF only locations to HF stations. She was able to assemble an incident command staff to support the training mission from across multiple wings and regions.
During the evaluation, multiple senior members and cadets were exposed to radio communications and learned how to use various systems, increasing Alaska Wing’s
overall capability to support mission/incident command. This also served to help connect unit communication personnel to their units by providing an example of how radio communications can be used to engage members with more active participation. Many members were able to work to renew or complete SQRTs including Mission Radio Operator, Communications Unit Leader and Mission Staff Assistant.
Lt. Col. Freeman developed a plan to allow Alaska Wing’s station to communication with each other and the rest of CAP at the same time. Alaska Wing had approximately eight HF stations in operation connecting to 25 stations outside of the Wing. These include two National Message Center Stations, a Pacific Region Gateway Message Center Station, a California Wing Gateway Message Center Station and a Kansas Wing Gateway Message Center Station. Participants in the exercise included personnel from CAP-USAF in addition to CAP members. Additionally, a new site for an active station was identified and able to be outfitted with equipment and qualified radio operators within the wing.
Lt. Col. Kristin Freeman’s outstanding performance of duty reflects great credit upon herself, Alaska Wing and the Civil Air Patrol.
Creative Photos and Writing Welcome
by Lt. Col. Bryan Emerson, Wing Public Affairs Officer
Civil Air Patrol has serious goals, but it is fun, too.
In that spirit, we solicit your creative ideas for the February issue. We will publish many of them.
Examples:
Photos: a snowman wearing a CAP hat or jacket, a CAP emblem on top of a garland or greenery, cadets lined up in the snow to spell CAP, a beautiful photo with a CAP hat or logo or patch hidden within it. We welcome your creative photography.
Writing: Poems about some aspect of CAP experience, like your first flight. A short anecdote or testimonial that you would like to share, honoring a member or an activity.
Your contributions are welcome.
November Wing SARex
Colonel MacPherson and Lt. Col. Sammons,
Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you for the opportunity to lead the planning on this Wing-led quarterly exercise.
Here are the results of our 2 - 3 Nov 24 SAREX:
- 7 units involved in the planning, staging and execution of a 2-day event focused on initial Ground Team, K-9 integration and ICS Staff training. SouthCentral components were cadet-planned and cadet-led.
- 6 Homer personnel and 6 Juneau personnel accomplished GTM3 classroom training and deployed to local land nav course to work on skills. They also had the opportunity to plug in virtually as Geographic Divisions to catch the briefings and canine team academics with Alaska Search and Rescue Dogs (ASARD). Thanks to Cadets Greenwald and Lotz for running point on their squadrons participation, and the SMs who supported them!
- MSgt Woorward completed all requirements for GBD (except IS-300, plan in progress to accomplish this by February).
- Capt. Porter completed all requirements to qualify as GTL.
- Cadet Medlin from Delta attained GTM1 and most requirements of GTL (only a few to go, targeting February's bivouac for completion).
- Cadets Clerc and Korte attained GTM1 and Cadet Altman attained GTM2.
- Weather precluded aircrew component of the exercise (freezing rain and fog).
- 4 members from 3 squadrons accomplished all Fam, Prep and Advanced Training for UDF and GTM3, and hard to get land nav, shelter-building and firecraft for GTM2 (they will wrap up IS and First Aid back at their units to complete their qualification).
Lessons Learned:
- Our next Wing-led exercise should be planned so the ICP team in Anchorage and the ICP team in Fairbanks should have practice working together before the April ops eval. A table-top rehearsal the last week of January would help.
- To support long-term partnership with Alaska Search and Rescue Dogs (ASARD), AKWG GTM training should introduce K-9 academics earlier than GTM1. UDF and GTM3 members should be taught the basic classroom block so they can effectively integrate into any team that may have a dog/handler assigned.
- Care must be taken during transition (Oct-Dec and Mar-May) so members have cold and wet layers to deal with the changing conditions.
- Lack of Motorola VHF radios due to programming made field comms challenging; used cell phones and ISRs to get the job done; this needs to be addressed prior to the February Bivouac. Recommend end-to-end VHF and HF communications be planned for and exercised in February.
- Units should take every opportunity to do Aircrew and GTM task training during their meetings/weekend activities to ensure SAREX activities can focus on repetition/expanding basic skills (as opposed to teaching basic skills)
I appreciated all the support and the hard work put in by all participants. It was another step forward to have Homer and Juneau personnel participate remotely, adding land nav to their skill sets as well as get an interior cadet to GTM1. We'll look forward to new challenges and capabilities in November.
Semper vigilans,
C/Lt. Col. Michael J. Porter, CAP
Assistant Emergency Services Training Officer & Assistant Communications Officer
Alaska Wing 636865@akwg.cap.gov
U.S. Air Force Auxiliary
1Lt. Mary Stella Interview
By: Laura Emerson
1st Lt. Mary Stella’s route to CAP was unusual. She joined in 2019 after attending a funeral. Her father-in-law, Marc Stella, had a long and storied career in the military and volunteered with CAP in Alaska for 60 years (!), earning the rank of Lt. Col.
Inspired by the comments of his CAP friends at the memorial service, Stella joined the organization, but not any particular squadron. “I wasn’t sure what to do next. I am an atypical volunteer. I’m neither a pilot nor a veteran, and I joined in my ‘70’s. But CAP is such a terrific organization that I wanted to help.” She credits Lt. Col. Brian Porter for helping her find her niche.
“If he had not taken the time to talk with me, learn what I did professionally and point out ways that I could help CAP, it would have been hard for me to integrate. I recommend that every squadron assign current members to mentor any new members for several months until they feel connected, valued, and involved in CAP’s missions.”
Porter describes Stella’s contributions: “Mary Stella is what we in the military would call a ‘universally assignable officer’. She can walk into chaos and turn it into a smoothly operating machine. With her background as comptroller in charge of payroll for the Providence Hospital System, she quickly became indispensable to us as a volunteer administrator.” Stella identified CAP processes that were disorganized, inefficient or neglected, costing people time and frustration, especially in auditing supplies. She got to work creating better filing systems, clearer, user-friendly spreadsheets, and even organizing closets for several departments, such as Logistics, Aerospace Education, Finance, and Communications.
Stella volunteers in other ways, too. For one month straight, she taught 2 - 4 STEM classes per day for young school students. She participated in Encampments and Glider Academy. When CAP’s budget was constrained, she paid for the software publishing tool so we could start this digital magazine. She is also the Wing Historian who contributes interesting articles.
“Mary is a critical, behind-the-scenes asset to the Wing,” states Porter.
Note the present tense: Stella moved to Virginia several years ago, but remains an active volunteer with the Alaska Wing. “Alaska was my home for 70 years and my heart remains there. I’ll continue to volunteer for CAP-Alaska as long as I can be useful.” She certainly is that. She just does not have to organize our closets anymore. Any volunteers?
Col. Kevin McClure Interview
By: Laura Emerson
Col. Kevin McClure is a Wing Commander Emeritus who has served CAP Alaska in a number of leadership roles over the past 24 years.
“I joined CAP back in 1989 or 1990 because of a tragedy. I had a friend, also named Kevin, with whom I had planned a hunting trip to Naked Island in Prince William Sound. At the last minute, I was unable to go. During the trip, he went missing. As I was on active duty at the time, I offered to help with the search but was turned down. My friend died of hypothermia.”
“A while later, I saw a blurb on a base bulletin about CAP’s Search and Rescue operations. Because of my friend’s death, this was exactly the sort of group I wanted to join.
Col. McClure initially affiliated with Wing headquarter, focusing on Emergency Services (ES). Subsequently, he was invited by the Squadron Commander to join Polaris where he served as Deputy under 5 different Commanders. In this role, he worked in Administration, Inspector General, ES, and Recruitment. Later, McClure served twice as its Commander for a total of 4-5 years.
“I am always recruiting for CAP – for any positions. On airplanes and RV trips, I pep-talk CAP. An adult may be a parent of potential cadets or have personal interest in aviation, communication, or emergency services. What was hardest for him during his leadership term?
“I became Commander of the Alaska Wing
(2019 - 2023) just as CAP lost its state funding. This was one of the two most difficult circumstances during my tenure. All squadron commanders and Wing staff members had serious talks about cost cutting. We moved several squadrons to army or air force bases because utilities were assured. We cut utilities to hangars. Members sought free meeting spaces in churches and the Aviation Museum. We drew down our savings account to meet expenses. I used personal air miles and my RV to visit squadrons outside of Anchorage, where I live. The only squadron I regret not being able to visit was Sitka.
“Fortunately, after several years, we were able to restore partial funding, having learned important lessons.
“The other challenge for me was investigating complaints and disciplining members. We are a volunteer organization, after all, but we also have clear standards of appropriate and inappropriate behavior. I did not have to kick anybody out, but Lt Col Porter and I had to quietly investigate some issues.
Col. McClure reflects on the past several decades of CAP in Alaska.
“When I joined around 1990, we had 23 squadrons, including places like Barrow and Ft. Yukon. Those are long gone. At that time, Polaris in Anchorage was the largest squadron - not just in Alaska - but in the entire USA! We had 600 members. By the time I was Squadron Commander, the number was halved: 300. “
Why did numbers dwindle from a state high of 3000 to current membership of about 750?
McClure’s opinion is that two major issues contributed to attrition: leadership and increasing regulations, particularly with computer interface.
“When CAP National rolled out E-Services in the ‘90s, many Alaskans still relied on dial-up computers, which were really slow. Electronic forms timed out and repeatedly lost entries. Many of our volunteers who just wanted to fly or work with cadets found this so frustrating that they quit. Then National added on additional requirements and regulations which many long-time members resented. They resigned, too, so we lost a lot of institutional knowledge.
“A second issue for retention is leadership at the Wing and Squadron level. We had a lot of turnover. A number of members quit over the years if they found leaders too autocratic or too laissez-faire. Members who stay are those who feel welcome, appreciated, respected, and involved in something worthwhile. This is why National recommends a mentorship relationship with new members.
Having passed the mantle of leadership to Col. Derk MacPherson, Col. McClure remains active in CAP Communications and ES.
“I used to always carry a handheld radio – on my person, in my car. Cell phones are convenient when everything is fine, but radio communication is essential when cell towers are inaccessible or not working. I would say that anyone involved in emergency services recognizes the importance of radio equipment monitored by practiced operators. It is great that CAP National is supporting Alaska’s roll out of new equipment, that we are increasing the number of people participating in Communications Exercises, and that we are improving our interaction with other emergency response organizations for the benefit of all Alaskans. I look forward to our “Twenty Seconds More” joint exercise of Communications and Operations in August, 2025.
The following poem by John M. Dahlen appeared in the 4th quarter
‘TWAS
THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
'Twas the night before Christmas, and out on the ramp, Not an airplane was stirring, not even a Champ. The aircraft were fastened to tie downs with care, In hopes that -- come morning -- they all would be there. The fuel trucks were nestled, all snug in their spots, With gusts from two-forty at 39 knots.
I slumped at the fuel desk, now finally caught up, And settled down comfortably, resting my butt. When the radio lit up with noise and with chatter, I turned up the scanner to see what was the matter.
A voice clearly heard over static and snow, Called for clearance to land at the airport below. He barked his transmission so lively and quick, I'd have sworn that the call sign he used was "St. Nick." I ran to the panel to turn up the lights, The better to welcome this magical flight.
He called his position, no room for denial, "St. Nicholas One, turnin' left onto final." And what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a Rutan-built sleigh, with eight Rotax Reindeer! With vectors to final, down the glideslope he came, As he passed all the fixes, he called them by name: "Now Ringo! Now Tolga! Now Trini and Bacon! On Comet! On Cupid!" What pills was he takin'?
While controllers were sittin', and scratchin' their heads, They phoned to my office, and I heard it with dread, The message they left was both urgent and dour: "When Santa pulls in, have him please call the tower.
"He landed like silk, with the sled runners sparking, Then I heard, "Left at Charlie," and "Taxi to parking." He slowed to a taxi, turned off of three-oh,
And stopped on the ramp with a "Ho, ho-ho-ho...
"He stepped out of the sleigh, but before he could talk, I ran out to meet him with my best set of chocks. His red helmet and goggles were covered with frost, And his beard was all blackened from Reindeer exhaust. His breath smelled like peppermint, gone slightly stale, And he puffed on a pipe, but he didn't inhale. His cheeks were all rosy and jiggled like jelly, His boots were as black as a crop duster’s belly.
He was chubby and plump, in his suit of bright red, And he asked me to "fill it, with hundred low-lead."
He came dashing in from the snow-covered pump, I knew he was anxious for drainin' the sump. I spoke not a word, but went straight to my work, And I filled up the sleigh, but I spilled like a jerk. He came out of the restroom, and sighed in relief, Then he picked up a phone for a Flight Service brief. And I thought as he silently scribed in his log, These reindeer could land in an eighth-mile fog.
He completed his pre-flight, from the front to the rear, Then he put on his headset, and I heard him yell, "Clear!"
And laying a finger on his push-to-talk, He called up the tower for clearance and squawk. "Take taxiway Charlie, the southbound direction, Turn right three-two-zero at pilot's discretion"
He sped down the runway, the best of the best, "Your traffic's a Grumman, inbound from the west."
Then I heard him proclaim, as he climbed thru the night, "Merry Christmas to all! I have traffic in sight.”
By: Unknown
Taken from: https://taskandpurpose.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/04/mini-F-16-2.jpg
Through Pick.Click.Give, Alaskans can choose to give a portion (or all) of their Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) to charity. Thanks to generous donors from all over the state, Alaska Wing Civil Air Patrol Cadet Programs has used donations to support critical mission activities, including aerospace (and other STEM) education, emergency services, and cadet programs. When filling out your PFD application, please consider making a difference by contributing to the Alaska Wing Civil Air Patrol Cadet Programs (just “Search Organizaitons” for the name “Civil”)
Please forward this newsletter to your Alaskan neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family who may like to see what Civil Air Patrol does in Alaska and may like show their appreciation for the great work Civil
Helpful Links:
PFD Application Information: https://pfd.alaska.gov/
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Pick.Click.Give listing for Alaska Wing (AKWG) Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Programs: https://www.pickclickgive.org/index.cfm/pfdorgs.
info/Civil-Air-Patrol-AKWG-Cadet-Programs
Very Respectfully,
Capt. Karen L Padgett
Pacific Region Assistant Cadet Activities Officer
Alaska Wing Assistant Director of Cadet Programs Lake Hood Cadet Squadron, Anchorage, Alaska
Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary
Maj. Martin Krebs
Alaska Wing Staff emails
martin.krebs@akwg.cap.gov ig@akwg.cap.gov
Capt. Cristopher Becker christopher.becker@akwg.cap.gov se@akwg.cap.gov
Lt Col Stuart Goering stuart.goering@akwg.cap.gov ja@akwg.cap.gov
Capt. Samantha (Reux) Stearns reux.stearns@akwg.cap.gov gr@akwg.cap.gov
2d Lt. Elizabeth Justus elizabeth.justus@akwg.cap.gov diversity@akwg.cap.gov
Lt. Col. Stephen Sammons stephen.sammons@akwg.cap.gov cs@akwg.cap.gov
Lt. Col. Brian Porter brian.porter@akwg.cap.gov do@akwg.cap.gov
Lt. Col. Bryan Emerson bryan.emerson@akwg.cap.gov dc@akwg.cap.gov
1st Lt. Lynda MacPherson lynda.macpherson@akwg.cap.gov ae@akwg.cap.gov
Capt. Sky Caldwell skylar.caldwell@akwg.cap.gov cp@akwg.cap.gov
1st. Lt. Elizath Justus elizabeth.justus@akwg.cap.gov recruiting@akwg.cap.gov
Lt. Col. Michael Inman michael.inman@akwg.cap.gov lgm@akwg.cap.gov
Maj. Caleb Newville caleb.newville@akwg.cap.gov it@akwg.cap.gov
Capt. Terrance (Terry) Aldridge terry.aldridge@akwg.cap.gov fm@akwg.cap.gov
Maj. Kevin Bottjen kevin.bottjen@akwg.cap.gov hc@akwg.cap.gov
1st Lt. Mary Stella mary.stella@akwg.cap.gov da@akwg.cap.gov
Lt. Col. Bryan Emerson bryan.emerson@akwg.cap.gov pa@akwg.cap.gov
Capt. Julie G. Rivera julie.rivera@akwg.cap.gov et@akwg.cap.gov
Feel free to write your fellow members with questions and comments.
Well, the end of the year and Santa are almost here. We salute C/Lt Col Michael Porter for the hard work he and his staff did recently to execute a productive and professional quarterly SAREX. Have you ever spent a night in the woods with these high-energy cadets? I did twice and was very impressed with AKWG’s Emergency Services training capabilities. We all respect Col. Kevin McClure and Lt. Mary Stella, whom we interviewed this month. They share a multi-generation connection to AKWG and to helping others whenever and
Lt. Col.
Bryan Emerson, CAP Publisher and Editor
Alaska Wing PAO, DC
BRYAN.EMERSON@AKWG.CAP.GOV 1 (907) 795-5586 cell
wherever an opportunity arises. Sadly, we mourn the loss of our Chaplain Eric Wiseman.
This online publication is designed to attract, inform and motivate readers through photographs, text and stories. We see and feel the four core values in the faces and body language of the cadets and senior members portrayed herein. Submissions are accepted through the 10th of each month. Be safe and live our core values!
Capt. Julie G. Rivera, CAP Co-Editor
Alaska Wing PAO Assistant 617596@AKWG.CAP.GOV 1 (787) 424-0560