CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The Civil Air Patrol is one of many career-developing opportunities offered at Charleston AFB's Aero Club for today's youth ages 12 to 18.
This program confronts young adults with the many different challenges they face, which helps them discover themselves and provides them with a sense of self discipline and more.
"I attended an air show in 2006 and came across a pamphlet that caught my interest. That's when I knew I wanted to be a pilot and joined the CAP shortly after," said Cadet Michael Herendon, 14. "My parents are very proud of how well I'm doing and the goals I have chosen for my life."
Cadet Herendon just returned from glider encampment, where he finished a total of 33 flights. This accomplishment allows him to fly a glider solo.
"I was exposed to flying by my father, who is a pilot," said Cadet Nicholas Clegg, 16. "I joined the CAP in 2004 when my mother discovered the program on-line and thought I would be good for it. I know the CAP will open up many opportunities for me career wise. I'm striving to one day receive the General Carl A. Spaatz Cadet Award, which is the highest award in the CAP given to less than one percent of cadets."
This program isn't only for those who love flying. There are cadets who have a fear of flying but who like the science, math and a sense of structure the program gives, not to mention being taught survival skills and military customs.
"Becoming a cadet in the CAP can open up many job opportunities in the future. Many CAP cadets go on to be in very distinguished careers," said Col. Bob Townsend, Coastal Charleston Composite Squadron commander.
The CAP currently consists of 69 members: 32 cadets and 37 senior members. Senior members are local military and civilian members who volunteer their time to train and mentor the cadets.
"The CAP made me into the successful Airman I am today," said Staff Sgt. Ryan Stocklin, 437th Security Forces Squadron Expeditionary Combat Skills Training instructor. "It gave me a basic understanding of how the military works and how to conduct myself in a professional way according to the military."
Maj. Chad Morris, 437th Aerial Port Squadron operations officer, is in charge of the cadet program. Major Morris is a former CAP cadet who attended the Air Force Academy and now gives back to the CAP cadets.
"This program provided many great opportunities for me," said Major Morris. "I believe it's the reason I got into the academy and that's why I give back to the CAP today."
The CAP is always looking for volunteers to help with the program. Flying experience not mandatory, all that is needed is the ability to help. The CAP is like a normal military squadron, there are many different areas to help in.
If anyone is interested in attending a meeting or just want to see what the CAP is about, meetings are held every Monday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Charleston AFB Aero Club.
For more information about Charleston's CAP unit, call Colonel Townsend at 767-9484.