By C/SSgt Seamus Davidson
The Arcturus Squadron has been working diligently to build skills in several core areas of CAP. We have been preparing for our summer SAREX, including what to expect in the field. Classwork learning has been to use maps and compasses accurately in the field because GPS is not always available. Cadets are learning what types of gear are needed depending on the situation. This classwork is essential due to the introduction of junior cadets. This classwork will be applied during our upcoming Saturday meeting and SAREX.
Cadets are also learning skills to help them understand cyber security through the Cyber Patriot program, including: hands-on applications, networks, security software, etc.
Arcturus continues to grow and further learn about aerospace. Every month the squadron focuses on a topic developed by the cadet staff. This last month, the cadets focused on the principles behind flying distances using Rhumb lines (direct A to B) and great circle routes (shortest path on a sphere).
We had several cadets promote in May, including:
Keegan Garvens promoted to C/SrA
Jacob Maierson promoted to C/TSgt
Riley Bridge promoted to C/CMSgt
Aspen Frye promoted to C/SSgt
Johnathan Maierson promoted to C/CMSgt
Drill and ceremonies is an integral part of the cadet programs, “building selfdiscipline and improving coordination,” said C/Amn Laidlaw. With each command, cadets must precisely perform the drill movement in coordination with the cadets in their flight to maintain cohesion and accuracy, as any mistake could
disrupt the formation. This subsequently “...builds a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between cadets”. By practicing drill routinely, we not only hope to prepare cadets for encampment but also their lives within Civil Air Patrol and beyond.
Thank you to Mr. Burke and SrA Purdy for your instructional class on first aid.
“The way we train, is so that no stress or strain can erase your training,” said LtCol. Porter. whether it is through compasses or boldfaces, every part of ES training is dedicated to improving our capabilities and ensuring we can save lives.
the cadets who were promoted this month, Fly High!
C/Amn Laidlaw
Polaris would also like to say goodbye to C/LtCol Lukic. Your leadership and dedication to the squadron have made a lasting impact. Throughout countless encampments and NCSAs, she has shown what is possible with dedication and excellence. We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.
-Stay Safe, C/CMsgt Korte
Every Monday 6:30 to 8:30 Kenai Cadets make Aerospace, Leadership, Safety/ HFZ, and Character Development Presentations. They always plan and deliver spectacular presentations. By doing this, they learn to lead and inform others what it takes to be a strong, supportive community member. This process supports the Core Values and makes everyone more knowledgeable and confident as a human being.
Three new cadets joined our squadron. They are Holden Kenner, Carter Marvin, and Vincent Traugott. It’s a joy to have them in our squadron. They are already working hard to pass Achievements.
Cadets are getting Orientation flights. They also are presently participating in Glider Academy at Clear Air Force Station. We’re sure many new stories and experiences will be shared upon their return. Many cadets are studying for the Ground School Test. They are on the path to becoming safe pilots. The opportunities are endless in Civil Air Patrol!
Cadets worked very hard and passed many achievements.
Achievement 1 Curry: Carter Marvin
Achievement 2: Hadassah Vance
Declan Cobb
Wright Brothers:
Thomas Drake Anthony and Timothy Cole
Achievement 5: Fletcher Darr
Noah Cole
Bjorn David
Jon Broussard and Timothy Cole
Achievement 6: Clayton Greenwald
Achievement 7: Zion Henderson
Billy Mitchell: Laif Rothenberger
We are very proud of their efforts and hard work and amazing effort.
We’re proud to have cadets in our Squadron. All cadets are working hard, setting a good example in our community and supporting each other in continuing to practice the Core Values. The world is a much better place with these young cadets in it.
On May 18, 2024, twenty-one cadets and several senior members in Civil Air Patrol, from both Eielson and Fairbanks, attended Fairbanks Aviation Day. They directed parking and manned a booth advertising Civil Air Patrol to the general public.
Fairbanks Aviation Day is an event to raise awareness about general aviation. It is held at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, or UAF, hangar and aviation facility, and is run by the Fairbanks Airport Operators Council. The event ran from seven in the morning to two in the afternoon, and during this time many people came to look at displays and booths set up by aviation companies and enthusiasts.
Both cadets and seniors manned the Civil Air Patrol booth at the event. The cadets attending the event had several jobs. Cadets directed parking, indicating to cars where to park, while other cadets managed the table, telling passers-by about the program, how to join, and why to join, and manning a flight simulator. The cadets assigned to Public Affairs took pictures, while the remainder of the cadets explored the displays and searched for the elusive FedEx arrow.
There were a wide variety of displays and booths at Aviation day. A few of the most and an Air Tractor AT-802F Fireboss, which is operated by Dauntless Air, contracted Caravan on amphibious floats, a Cessna C408 Sky Courier, and of course, and our CAP
most notable aircraft on display were a FedEx Boeing 727 that FedEx donated to UAF, to the Bureau of Land Management. There was a Grumman Gosling, a Cessna C208 CAP ASK-21 glider.
UAF had a display with drones, including a drone designed and built by UAF, along with drone flying simulators. Evert’s Air Fuel displayed the largest fuel truck on the airport, a monster of a truck with 15,000 gallons of fuel capacity. Inside the hangar, there were booths belonging to various organizations and companies related to aviation, such as the FAA, or the Federal Aviation Administration, Omni Logistics, Evert’s Air Cargo, Evert’s Air Fuel, and several others.
Overall, Fairbanks Aviation Day was an exciting event, and had intriguing displays. Hundreds of people attended the event, and the Civil Air Patrol members enjoyed this opportunity to learn more about aviation, as well as tell others about Civil Air Patrol.
In the month of May, the Lake Hood Squadron continued to train and excel through the end of the school year. Along with weekly squadron meetings, Lake Hood cadets could be found at several major activities, and showed their excellence through achieving major milestones both within and outside of CAP.
A total of 7 cadets from the Lake Hood Squadron participated in Alaska Wing Flight academies, for both powered aircraft and gliders. Cadets Wegemer, Bennett, Owens, and Lars Mellerstig spent their days soaring, while Cadets Halliburton, Ori, Owens, and Selby worked towards soloing in CAP Cessna 172s. Congratulations to all 7 Cadets on their safe return from these exciting activities.
With the end of the school year, the Lake Hood Squadron celebrated the high school graduation of two outstanding cadets, C/TSgt Raymond Patterson and C/Lt Col Alan Padgett. Along with graduating high school, C/ Lt Col Padgett is also graduate #311 of the Cadet Wings Program, achieving his Private Pilot License on 15 May, 2024. Cadet Padgett and C/Maj Clifton (visiting from Southeast Composite Squadron) received Commander’s Commendation Awards.
The Lake Hood Squadron looks forward to seeing where these outstanding cadets go, as they continue to strive for excellence in all they do.
C/TSgt Patterson and C/ Lt Col Padgett getting congratulated by the Lake Hood Squadron Commander, 1st Lt Jeremy Engeberg
C/Lt Col Padgett and C/ Maj Clifton receiving their Commander’s Commendation Awards from Capt Karen Padgett
Private
On May 18, C/LTC Katarina "Kat" Lukic passed the practical test for her FAA Private Pilot-Glider certificate with FAA
Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), Mr. Hon Kinzie. The practical test consisted of an oral exam the evening prior, followed by
three glider sorties mid-morning on the 18th, a Saturday at Birchwood Airport. Kat flew two high tows to 3000 feet AGL and a simulated rope break at 200 feet
AGL in Alaska Wing's Blanik L-23 glider.
After Cadet Lukic's successful checkride. L to R - Cadets Wegemer, McArthur, Lukic; Mr. Kinzie (DPE); LTC McCarthy; LTC Burand.
After Cadet Clifton's successful checkride. L to R - Mr. Kinzie (DPE); LTC McCarthy, Cadet Clifton.
Launching gliders is a group activity requiring the support of others. Supporting Cadet Lukic's checkride were: C/1Lt Grania Wegemer and C/ CMSgt Adam McArthur, who served as Wing Runners; LTC Jim McCarthy as Recommending Instructor, LTC Don Burand as Ground Duty Officer, and LTC Tom Palmer as C-182 tow plane
pilot. Mr. Kinzie had flown a helicopter to Birchwood and Cadet Lukic had earlier expressed her interest in flying helicopters. Thus, after the issuance of her new certificate, it was no surprise that Kat was further rewarded with a short flight lesson in the helicopter by Mr. Kinzie.
Caption for "Clifton's Ground Team" photo: Cadets Vanderlugt, Davidson, Anderson, and McArthur position the ASK-21 on the runway.
Cadet Lukic receives a helicopter flight lesson from Mr. Kinzie
Then, on June 8, after returning from Alaska Wing's annual glider academy at Clear, AK as an advanced student, C/Maj Thomas Clifton achieved his Private Pilot-Glider certificate at Birchwood. "Tommy" had already earned his Private Pilot-Powered Airplane certificate in May, so his glider rating is a "category add-on," but otherwise, his practical exam format was the same as for Cadet Lukic. He flew the checkride sorties in Alaska Wing's Schleicher ASK-21 glider.
This time, the support team included: C/Maj Rachel Anderson, C/2Lt Ben Vanderlugt, C/CMSgt Adam McArthur, and C/SSgt Seamus Davidson, as Wing Runners, LTC Jim McCarthy as Recommending Instructor, SM Jean Davidson as Ground Duty Officer, and Maj Ben Padgett as C-182 tow plane pilot.
Katarina and Thomas!
The Initial Morning Briefing for the Glider Academy at Clear, AK
Story: The Alaska Wing Glider Cadre assembled three gliders and three C-182 tow planes at the state-maintained airstrip outside the Clear Space Force Base on Thursday, May 23. The first of our daily morning briefings took place the following day, bright and early at 6:15 am in the
Anderson school house rotunda. Every day after that, C/Lt.Col Michael Porter and his cadet staff presented the morning briefings. The academy logged 352 glider sorties through June 1 and five cadets achieved solo flight.
"Glider Academy cadets assemble at the 'round table' in the rotunda to listen to the morning briefing."
- 5 units involved in the planning, staging and execution of a 2.5-day event focused on initial Ground Team, Aircrew and ICS Staff training. South-Central components were cadet-planned and cadet-led.
- MSgt Woodward completed all requirements to certify as GBD
- TMP/MP/MO/MS air and ground training accomplished for 4 aircrew members; accomplished Air-to-Ground and Groundto-Air signalling exercise with 3/3 tasks successfully accomplished, including mirror flashes, ground panel signals and GTM-based vectoring (21 participants in that activity). 1 MO re-qualified, and 2 MP Form 91 qualification checkrides accomplished (thank you, Maj Siebe!).
- 10 members from 4 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)
- 2 cadets completed more than 50% of
GTL tasks, awaiting their 18th birthday to complete GTL
Lessons Learned:
- AK VHF Motorola Radios continue to show long battery life. Need to be ALMR
programmed.
-N9694L lacks CAP VHF radio programming.
- Members should ops check their gear and their clothing before going into the field for more than a day hike.
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).
An Alaska Army National Guard CH47F Chinook helicopter lifts a Small Unit Support Vehicle during sling-load training over Bryant Army Airfield at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Feb. 28, 2024. U.S. Army Soldiers from the Alaska Army National Guard Aviation Battalion conducted the sling-loaded training to enhance their ability to operate in Alaska’s harsh environment. (Alaska National Guard photo by Alejandro Peña).
In late February, a film crew from Newsweek traveled to JBER and embedded with the Alaska Army National Guard’s 207th Aviation Troop Command for four days, learning about the unique aspects of flying and operating in Alaska. The long-form video feature is part of a relatively new series called Newsweek ‘Unconventional’ which highlights various U.S. military units, servicemembers and capabilities.
Alaska is the first unit from the National Guard as well as Army to be featured in this series. (the other episodes feature Air Force and Marines).
Newsweek published a feature on the episode and the Alaska National Guard on its website. https://www. newsweek.com/cold-war-americasremote-front-line-russia-1901000
Here is the link to video feature: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=71-Uwz0TmL0
Thanks for this contribution goes to Alan Brown, Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Alaska National Guard & Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
Flying 150 miles per hour a few hundred feet above saltwater with the aircraft’s tail open was the excitement of a lifetime for many and an opportunity to see their breakfast again for a few.
About 100 Alaska Wing CAP members, mainly cadets, were recently hosted on
Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson in Anchorage by the 144 th squadron of the Alaska Air National Guard for a C-17 flight and facilities tour. The flight was an exercise simulating a search and rescue operation to find a floating command module with astronauts inside somewhere in Prince William Sound near Whittier. The learning experience
Links to photos taken by ANG’s Alejandro Pena can be found here: https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8474368/akang-144th-airlift-squadron-hosts-alaska-wings-civil-air-patrol-cadets
was led by Lt. Rich Benedict, who ensured that everyone learned much, enjoyed themselves immensely and remained safe.
C/Maj Thomas Clifton was one of only two cadets that earned the right to sit in the cockpit upon takeoff. He says that "it
was a valuable opportunity to observe the procedural communication between the flight crew during the takeoff process!
Let’s hope that AKANG makes this an annual event for CAP members.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8474368/akang-144th-airlift-squadron-hosts-alaska-wings-civil-air-patrol-cadets
Links to photos taken by ANG’s Alejandro Pena can be found here: https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8474368/akang-144th-airlift-squadron-hosts-alaska-wings-civil-air-patrol-cadets
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8474368/akang-144th-airlift-squadron-hosts-alaska-wings-civil-air-patrol-cadets
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8474368/akang-144th-airlift-squadron-hosts-alaska-wings-civil-air-patrol-cadets
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8474368/akang-144th-airlift-squadron-hosts-alaska-wings-civil-air-patrol-cadets
In the realm of emergency services, readiness is not just a virtue but a necessity. For aspiring cadets looking to make a meaningful impact in this vital field, completing FEMA's Incident Command System (ICS) 100 and ICS 700 courses, alongside GES 116, stands as a pivotal step towards preparedness. These courses offer a structured framework and essential knowledge that are indispensable for effective emergency response.
ICS 100 and ICS 700, offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provide cadets with a foundational
understanding of emergency management principles and protocols. These courses introduce cadets to the Incident Command System (ICS) structure, terminology, and key concepts essential for coordinated response efforts. By completing these courses, cadets not only familiarize themselves with the standardized approach to emergency management but also cultivate the necessary skills to communicate and collaborate effectively during crises.
Finishing GES 116 within the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is of paramount importance as it equips members with essential knowledge and skills vital for their roles within the organization. GES 116, or General Emergency Services Training, serves as the foundational training for CAP members involved in emergency services missions.
This course covers crucial topics such as search and rescue procedures, aircraft familiarization, and basic emergency response rotocols. Proficiency in these areas ensures that CAP members are wellprepared to assist in various emergency situations, from locating missing aircraft to providing aid in disaster relief efforts. By completing GES 116, CAP members not only enhance their individual capabilities but also contribute to the overall effectiveness and readiness of the organization in fulfilling its vital ission of service to communities and the nation. Completion of ICS 100, ICS 700, and GES 116 offers cadets more than just certifications—it opens doors to a wealth
of opportunities within emergency services. Cadets who undergo this comprehensive training pathway earn the esteemed Ground Team Member (GTM) badge, symbolizing their dedication to excellence in emergency response. Furthermore, they gain access to training exercises and simulations that provide invaluable hands-on experience and further deepen their understanding of emergency services.
By completing FEMA courses and GES 116 expeditiously, cadets position themselves as capable and prepared emergency responders. The knowledge and skills acquired through these courses not only empower cadets to respond effectively to emergencies but also instill in them a sense of duty and responsibility towards their communities. Armed with the GTM badge and a robust foundation in emergency management, cadets stand ready to serve with distinction and make a positive impact in times of crisis.
In conclusion, the importance of completing ICS 100, ICS 700, and GES 116 cannot be overstated for cadets aspiring to excel in emergency services.
These courses lay the groundwork for effective emergency response, providing cadets with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities necessary to become
Cadets walking back to Mission Base
-Photo credit to C/Maj Rick Benedict
In photo participants of May Quarterly SAREX skilled and compassionate responders. By prioritizing the completion of these courses, cadets embark on a journey of learning and preparation that will serve them well in their future endeavors as dedicated stewards of public safety and well-being.
Good afternoon, CAWG, NVWG, HIWG, ORWG, WAWG, and AKWG!
My name is 1st Lt Samantha Moat, and I am the PAO for the much-anticipated Pacific Region Cadet Competition. The Pacific Region Competition Committee is seeking experienced, enthusiastic members to join the Public Affairs team for this year's competition at March Air Reserve Base, California from August 30th through September 1st.
Cadet Competition is one of the most exclusive and rewarding experiences for cadets. The Pacific Region strives to capture the amount of time, effort, and discipline competing teams put into competition and give every wing a unique opportunity to watch and support their teams.
If you love photography, videography, and graphic design, this is the opportunity for you!
Open positions are as follows:
Cadet PA OIC/NCOIC
This cadet should be well versed in the CAPR 39-1, chapter 7 of the CAPP 6033 (Color Guard drill), CAPR 900-2, CAPP 151, and CAPP 152. This cadet should also be familiar with Adobe Lightroom.
This cadet is required to have experience working in PA at the unit level or more than one local or wing activity.
Duties will include, but are not limited to:
Working directly with the event PAO to create and execute PA strategies
Graphic design
Training members of the PA team
Reviewing content
Photography and videography
PA Member: Videographer (x2)
These members should be well versed in the CAPR 39-1, CAPR 900-2 and be familiar with Adobe Lightroom.
Videography and video editing experience is required.
Duties will include, but are not limited to:
Graphic design
Video editing
PA Member: Photographer (x8)
These members should be well versed in the CAPR 39-1, CAPR 900-2 and be familiar with Adobe Lightroom.
Photography and editing experience is required.
Duties will include, but are not limited to:
Graphic design
Photo editing
Experienced members are encouraged to submit an application through this link. Applications are due by Thursday, June 27th at 2345.
Please note that travel reimbursement cannot be guaranteed until a later date.
Please respond to this email with any questions.
Best,
PS: If you aren't interested in working PA for this event, but want to follow competition updates, please view the attached PNG for social media information.
Capt Brandon Anderson
brandon.anderson@akwg.cap.gov ig@akwg.cap.gov
Capt Donald (DJ) Burand dj.burand@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
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 Karen Padgett karen.padgett@akwg.cap.gov cp@akwg.cap.gov
2d Lt Elizath Justus elizabeth.justus@akwg.cap.gov recruiting@akwg.cap.gov
SM 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
Feel free to write your fellow members with questions and comments.
Assistant Public Affairs Officer - Public Relations, Digital Engagement and Creative Services
• Works with Public Affairs Officer to provide oversight across AKWG units and staff to ensure a CAP-compliant and active social media presence.
• Provides units and staff education.
• Training to develop and sustain relevant social media activities.
• Advises the commander, staff and members as required on CAP social media policy.
• Participate in the decision-making process, as appropriate, on technical, operational and organizational issues.
• Advise the Wing Commander for dress and personal appearance items affecting CAP members and specifically NCOs.
• Serve as a representative of the Wing Commander.
• Serves on award and recognition selection committees.
Wing NCO Advisor
• Participate in the decision-making process, as appropriate, on technical, operational and organizational issues.
• Work closely with their wing’s command NCO.
• Perform other duties as directed by the wing commander.
• Encourage NCO mentorship of cadets and junior officer CAP members.
Personnel Officer
• Membership records and applications.
• Organizational actions (charters, deactivations, etc.).
• Awards and decorations.
• Duty assignments.
Manages and directs the Senior Member Education and Training program at the assigned echelon. They shall:
• Create a positive unit training environment where CAP's adult members can develop their required skills in a comfortable, professional atmosphere.
• Assist with the Level I Onboard modules to ensure that all new adult members receive a thorough orientation and have appropriately assimilated into the unit.
• Coordinate mentors for new adult members and other members as needed.
• Make adult members aware of training material and opportunities available to them through CAP and other sources to prepare them to perform operational missions, staff assignments, and other assigned duties.
The logistics officer advises the wing commander on the status of their respective property management programs and leads programs in accordance with CAPR 130-1 and wing supplements. They shall:
• Train and oversees subordinate unit property management officers
• Account for property assigned to the wing
• Be responsible for real property management in accordance with CAPR 130-1
• Be familiar with the CAP History Program, including applicable regulations and pamphlets, and with professional historical standards and requirements.
• Assist the Commander on all historical matters and implement a unit historical program.
• Collect and preserve material of historical significance
Health Services Officer
Responsible for advising CAP commanders and units on the health, sanitation and hygiene of CAP members relevant to CAP activities. (See CAPR 160-1(I) for policy on emergency medical treatment).
Inspector General
Responsible for implementing, managing and directing an Independent and Objective IG program. They shall:
• Evaluate compliance with CAP directives.
•Conduct inspections and render reports of inspection.
•Coordinate inspection results with the commander and staff.
CAC (Cadet Advisory Council) Senior Member Advisor (virtual meetings 2-3 times/ month year-round)
Encampment Commander (2025 AKWG Encampment is scheduled for xx-xx-xx)
Glider Flight Academy Activity Director (2025 AKWG Glider Academy is tentatively scheduled for xx-xx-xx)
Powered Flight Academy (Distributed) Activity Director (need not be a pilot!) (2025 AKWG/National Powered Flight Academy takes place in instructors' and/or cadet students' home towns on their own schedule roughly xx-xx-xx)
Several Polaris Squadron Senior and Cadet members joined us to hear the speech and ask questions.
Wow, have we been busy recently with activities including Fairbanks Aviation Day, Encampment, Glider Academy, C-17 ride, promotions, exercises, training, missions, graduations, and orientation flights, among others! We bears are out of hibernation and running hard. See you soon at one or more of our upcoming events (think: Fourth of July parades, air shows, local emergency service conventions, aerospace education seminars, new cadet squadron open houses, and military installation tours to name a few).
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!
https://www.facebook.com/AlaskaCAP
Lt Col Bryan Emerson, CAP Publisher and Editor
Alaska Wing PAO, DC
BRYAN.EMERSON@AKWG.CAP.GOV
1 (907) 795-5586 cell
Julie G. Rivera, CAP Co-Editor
Alaska Wing PAO Assistant
617596@AKWG.CAP.GOV
1 (787) 424-0560
