Northern Flights

The Official Magazine of the Minnesota Wing, Civil Air Patrol

FALL - WINTER 2009

Building Tomorrows Leaders Today

Northern Flights
Minnesota Wing Civil Air Patrol 6275 Crossman Lane Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 651-291-0462 gsupan@mncap.org Colonel Thomas Theis Commander, Minnesota Wing Northern Flights Fall-Winter 2009 Editorial Supplied by Major Al Pabon National Public Affairs Team Leader CAP National Headquarters
Northern Flights is the authorized publication of the Minnesota Wing of Civil Air Patrol and is edited by the Minnesota Wing Headquarters Office. It is published by a private firm which is in no way connected to the United States Air Force or the Civil Air Patrol. Opinions expressed in the articles and advertisements in this magazine are the sole responsibility of the contributors and are in no way endorsed by the United States Government, the United States Air Force, or the Civil Air Patrol Corporation. This publication is published three times a year. Civil Air Patrol is a non-profit volunteer organization. Federally chartered by Congress under 36 U.S.C. 20-208, which is dedicated to emergency services, aerospace education and motivation of Americas youth to the highest ideals of leadership and public service through cadet programs. Funds received by the advertising sales are used to support this publication and to support various CAP activities throughout the State of Minnesota.

Minnesota Flight Academy

Flying High has New Meaning for Cadets at Minnesota Flight Academy
Major Richard Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, Group 2 Minnesota Wing Regardless of the distance traveled, training young glider pilots is a job Senior Member Steve Dee loves doing for the Civil Air Patrol. Even better is doing so when one of the cadets who takes their solo flight also happens to come from south of the Mason-Dixon Line as well. So how does a glider instructor pilot from Tennessee Wing connect with a cadet from Georgia Wing at the Minnesota Wing Flight Academy? Its a great group of positive cadets and adults that make the Minnesota Flight Academy such a success, so I look forward to coming back each year, Dee said. Dee, a retired Colonel who served 30 years in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve, is a pilot for FedEx when not sharing the finer points of how to fly gliders to cadets. He has been making the trip to the Minnesota for nearly 0 years. This was the first visit to The land of sky blue waters for Cadet Airman Basic Nathan Bernth of Peachtree City-Falcon Field Composite Squadron in Georgia.
Continued on page 5 . . .

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COVER IMAGE: C/AB Nathan Bernth is congratulated by SM Steve Dee after soloing.

Sprouting Wings
Pat Christman The Mankato (MN) Free Press

A glider lands while a powered flight takes off during the Minnesota Wing Flight Academy.

Ben Leaf, 15, closes the canopy on a glider as he prepares for his second solo flight during the Civil Air Patrols flight academy at the Mankato Municipal Airport. Photo - The Free Press

One of their instructors likened the group of 25 Civil Air Patrol cadets learning about flight at a weeklong flight academy to sponges. Theyre soaking wet, tired and full of information at the end of the day, he said, but they come back the next day fresh and ready for more. The academy, sponsored by the Minnesota Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, is an intense course designed to teach students from Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota and Nebraska about ground and air operations of both powered airplanes and gliders, said the Civil Air Patrols Dave Skaar. The idea is to give them the experience of flying, not necessarily time in the airplane, Skaar said. To get that experience, cadets spent the first three days of the academy in the classroom, learning about how an airplane or glider works and the basic controls. The students also learn about safety around aircraft and performing duties on the ground with the gliders, such as hooking them to the tow plane and guiding the wing as they gain speed on the ground. For the next three days, the cadets learn to fly the airplane or glider, taking short flights called
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sorties with an instructor. Many of the 4- to 8-year-old cadets take their first solo airplane or glider flight during the academy, an experience that leaves them smiling from ear to ear, but also costs them their shirt. A tradition among pilots, students taking their first solo flight have the date written on their shirt and a panel cut out of it to remember the experience.

C/CMSgt Ben Leaf gives the thumbs up with his ground crew.

Scholarship helps Minnesota cadet reach new heights

Capt. Richard Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, Group 2 Minnesota Wing A scholarship honoring a late Civil Air Patrol member will help an aspiring pilot earn her wings. Cadet Second Lieutenant Emily Jensen, a member of the Crow Wing Composite Squadron in Brainerd, Minn., received the Jacob Pfingsten Memorial Flight Training Scholarship during the recent Minnesota Wing Flight Academy. Jacob Pfingsten, a cadet and senior member of the Crow Wing Squadron, obtained his FAA

C/TSgt Don Raleigh hooks a glider to a tow line during the Minnesota Wing Flight Academy.

(L-R) Cadet Emily Jensen and Jolene Parks, Jacob Pfingstens sister. Photo courtesy of 2009 Minnesota Flight Academy

Private Pilot Certificate through the CAP program. He died in February 2005 of natural causes while serving with the U.S. Army in Germany. The scholarship was created by his parents, Tom and Beth Pfingsten of Brainerd, both Civil Air Patrol members, and LaDonna and Randy Blackorbay of Maple Grove. Jensen, the Crow Wing Squadron cadet commander, said the scholarship has special meaning to her. Receiving the scholarship meant that Id be able to go on to get my private pilots license, something Ive wanted to do since I can remember, Jensen said, and I felt privileged to receive the scholarship since I had known the Pfingsten family, and Jake, since joining CAP six years ago. The scholarship provides up to 30 hours of flight training. The cadet has one year to utilize the funds and to obtain their certificate. Jensen was selected as the recipient of the scholarship from several outstanding candidates by the senior staff and flight instructors at the flight academy held near Mankato, Minn. Flight academy also provided Jensen with the opportunity to solo in an airplane. Soloing was incredible. Being up in the sky is amazing enough, but being up in the sky, flying a plane by YOURSELF, is unbelievable!
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Flying High at MN Flight Academy

Continued from page 1 . . .

My Dad saw a flight academy was being held in Minnesota so he made all the arrangements for me to be here, Bernth said. I also wanted to solo in a glider and coming to Minnesota made that a possibility. Cadets need at least 30 flights before they can fly solo in a glider. The July 17-25 flight academy drew 25 pilots in training from Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and Georgia and put them behind the controls of either a Super Blanik L-23 glider or Cessna 72 aircraft. The cadets were joined by nearly 30 senior officers supervising the activity. The gliders travel at about 50 miles per hour. The flights are towed to 3,000 feet by a powered aircraft. Then the glider pilot releases the tow cable and looks for thermal columns of warm air to give them lift like the eagles and hawks that hunt the fields near the Mankato Municipal Airport. After that the emphasis is on landing patterns and landing the glider from ,000 feet. The two-seater gliders provide room for a FAA certified flight instructor, who can make adjustments using rear controls if the young pilot makes a mistake. Cadet Bernth was teamed with SM Dee during a supervised flight before taking the controls for a solo. I was confident he (Cadet Bernth) was ready to solo, Dee said. Theres a lot of accountability here for cadets, from running the flight line to preparing for their solo. So, they are in charge as to whether flight academy is a successful experience or not. B e r n t h s aid soloing in the glider was awesome. The flight academy was very well run and the quality of the instructors was outstanding. Bernth said he also made a lot of new friends. All powered aircraft training is conducted at a minimum altitude of ,500 feet at an air speed of about 100 miles per hour. During the solo flight the cadet is by themselves and typically performs -3 take-offs and landings. Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Jenna Ernst of St. Cloud Composite Squadron soloed in the Cessna 72. She called it the biggest accomplishment of

her life. Youre having so much information thrown at you during the classroom phase, its impossible not to be overloaded. But, working through that really shows you what youre made of. So at first it was frustrating, but at the end it was just amazing to see how far Id come. Ernst had high praise for her instructors. At the beginning of Flight Academy I never would have imagined that Id hold perfect altitude and airspeed during my solo, but I did it! My flight instructor, Capt. David Yost, was wonderful and his confidence in my capability encouraged me to do my best. Maj. Manny Block, our ground school instructor, was positively awesome. He shared so much information with us and I felt privileged to learn from him. Ernsts flight academy experience seemed to sum up the feelings of all the cadets, whether in a glider or powered aircraft. Flying high has a whole new meaning, Ernst said. Theres no feeling ite as exhilarating as your first solo. For more information about the Minnesota Flight Academy please go to their website at:

www.mncap.org/cp/flightacademy

BACKGROUND PHOTO: A cadet ground crew positions gliders on the tow line during the Minnesota Wing Flight Academy.

NCR PA OF THE YEAR

Minnesota Wing member named Regions Public Affairs Officer of the Year
C/CMSgt Lydia Wiff Cadet Executive Officer Viking Composite Squadron, Minnesota Wing It didnt take long for Major Richard Sprouse of Sauk Rapids to make an impression on the members of the Minnesota Wing of the US Air Force Auxiliary - Civil Air Patrol. In 2007, he was named the Minnesota Wings public affairs officer of the year after joining the organization the previous year. That award happened to be the first in a host of others to come, including the most recent: North Central Region public affairs officer of the year. The NCR includes North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kansas. The award was presented by Colonel Tom Theis, Minnesota Wing commander, at the Army National Guard Aviation Facility in St. Cloud on November 23. Major Sprouse has a wealth of experience in news and public relations thats proved to be a tremendous asset to the organizations public relations efforts, Theis said. He noted Sprouses nearly 50 stories and pictures published in local, state, regional, and national publications as evidence. When I hung up my boots through the Reserves in 2005, I really missed the camaraderie of being around troops, Sprouse said. Now I have the best of both worlds I get to continue to serve my community, state and nation, and put my PR and news skills to work telling the CAP story. The NCR Public Affairs Officer of the Year Award is given to members who demonstrate exceptional expertise, professionalism, and advanced public relations skills. The award was the latest honor Sprouse has
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(L-R) Col. Tom Theis, Minnesota Wing commander, Maj. Richard Sprouse, North Central Region Public Affairs Officer of the Year. Photo courtesy of C/Capt Lydia Stone, Minnesota Wing

received from the Minnesota Wing. In October, he was promoted to his present rank, in April he received the Commanders Commendation Award for excellence in public relations, and in the past three years his efforts have earned a number of awards from the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators. Major Sprouse continues to be an excellent example of professionalism to Seniors and Cadets alike. His experience in public relations and writing is well known throughout Minnesota and the Region. All who have worked with Major Sprouse, appreciate his expertise in these areas and have learned much from him. The regional recognition is much appreciated, but the honor really goes to the many Minnesota Wing members across the state that include me in their PR efforts, Sprouse said. Yes, it was hard work, but it was also fun. Otherwise, I wouldnt have done it. Overall, CAP has been a fantastic experience!
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NCR CONFERENCE
A Cadet Perspective North Central Region Conference
C/SrA Jasmine Sands and C/SSgt Catlin Albrecht North Hennepin Composite Squadron Late Friday night October 30th, despite the chill wind, North Central Region Color Guard excitedly packed their van and headed off to Des Moines, Iowa, for the North Central Region Conference. At the conference, members from the seven different wings in our region were able to meet and learn about what has been happening and what is planned for the future. There were also members from the Civil Air Patrol United States Air Force (CAPUSAF), and National Headquarters in attendance. During a brief meeting on Saturday morning, the North Central Region Color Guard posted the colors to signify the beginning of the conference. Before everyone headed off to a class of their choice, the North Central Region commander, Wing commanders, and other guests were introduced. After the meeting, members eagerly headed off to various classes. There were classes on color guard, the new cadet curriculum, the role of the cadet staff, and many others. Some of the classes that were particularly enjoyed by the North Hennepin Squadron cadets
Minnesota Wing Commander Col. Theis with some cleverly disguised senior members.

NCR Color Guard: C/SMSgt Bruffey, C/TSgt Albrecht, C/ CMSgt Miller, and C/SSgt Albrecht

were NCOs and Dynamic Followership, taught by C/2nd Lt David Nelson, Respect on Display, taught by C/st Lt David Blessman and C/st Lt Dainec Stefan, and the Drug Demand Reduction class taught by Lt. Col. Bonnie Braun, Mid East Region Drug Demand Reduction Coordinator. There were many useful classes for cadets that taught how to be a better leader. All the classes were interactive, memorable, and educational. Senior member 2nd Lt. Suzanne Albrecht said, I was very impressed with the classes conducted for the cadets. It occurred to me that the leadership skills being taught to the cadets were the same ones that employers pay big bucks to have their employees learn. The banquet Saturday evening was a celebration of the achievements of our members, region, and organization. And, since it was Halloween, costumes were encouraged. Among the characters walking around at the banquet were Tigger, Zorro, and a Roman Spartan. The food was delicious, the company was enjoyable, and many awards were given to outstanding members of the North Central Region. Hearing of the numerous accomplishments of so many different members of our region was both impressive and encouraging. The evening concluded with the retrieving of the colors. After many goodbyes to friends old and new, the North Central Region Color Guard piled into their van and headed home to Minnesota. I loved getting to see old friends and making new ones! It was great to catch up and see what squadrons in other states were doing in the CAP program. I had a blast! said C/SSgt Caitlin Albrecht. With many memorable experiences still fresh in their minds, everyone eagerly stated their intention to attend the conference again next year.
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BLACK CAP
Minnesota BlackCAP ES College celebrates 25 years
Major Richard Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, Group 2 Minnesota Wings BlackCAP Emergency Services College celebrated 25 years September 25-27 with a near record turnout of 30 members on a brilliant fall day. Created by the Red Wing Squadron in 84, BlackCAP is devoted to teaching the search and rescue procedures that enable Civil Air Patrol wings everywhere to save nearly 00 lives every year. Cadre at the event wears a special black cap. Each year at BlackCAP is different from every other year, though the curriculum has always been centered on ground team training, said Major Mari Lucas, one of the event organizers. She noted teamwork is stressed, as well as creativeness and the ability to make training and learning fun. BlackCAP attendees are issued a small rubber frog upon arrival and are held responsible for it during the weekend; a lifes first lesson on accountability. BlackCAP is a great activity for new cadets, and that little rubber frog teaches them the importance of being responsible, especially when carrying out a search and rescue mission, said Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, Minnesota Wing Chief of Staff. Its a characteristic that is at the core of
Using resources available and innovation are a big part of Minnesota Wings BlackCAP ES College. Here, members portray aircraft while a flight line marshaller directs the plane to the appropriate location. 130 Minnesota Wing members attended the event.

Attendees at Minnesota Wings 25th BlackCAP ES College practice stretcher-bearing techniques.

CAPs emphasis on mission execution, whether that mission is saving lives or securing the nation: accountability. Among the course offerings were flight line marshalling, field first-aid, use of radios and direction finding equipment, line searches, handling the news media, and transitioning from a search to a rescue operation. Scenarios with missing persons and injuries put the skills learned in the classroom to work in the field. BlackCAP seems to have something for everyone. It was a first time opportunity for young leaders like C/2Nd Lt Ben Leaf of St. Cloud Squadron. It was my first time in a leadership role at a CAP event, and it was outstanding! It was also a first for enthusiastic new members like C/AB Michael Teener of Ft. Snelling Squadron. This is the first time Ive attended a CAP event, and it was awesome. I plan to come back next year!
Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, Minnesota Wing Chief of Staff, gives a class on flight-line safety during Minnesota Wings 25th BlackCAP ES College.

NCOS BCOC
Minnesota Leadership Academy graduates 50 cadets
Major Richard Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, Group 2 Minnesota Wings Leadership Academy (MLA) had a full house during its annual session at Camp Ripley, graduating 6 cadets from the Basic Commissioned Officers Course (BCOC) and 34 cadets from the Noncommissioned Officer School (NCOS). The MLA is part of the Minnesota Wings Integrated Leadership Program, which provides cadets continuous training and development from cadet basic to cadet colonel. Drill and ceremony, human behavior modification, verbal and written communication, and conflict resolution are major components of NCOS. I learned a lot about proper drill and ceremony during NCOS, and how I was doing it before was wrong, said Cadet Airman First Class Kati Jents of St. Croix Squadron. I cant wait to go back to my squadron and practice what I learned. The BCOC addresses elements such as character development, project management, ethics, and leading by example. I took a ridiculous amount of notes during each session, said Cadet Second Lieutenant David Nelson of Red Wing Squadron, and I will apply what I learned at BCOC to make us an
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BCOCs C/SMSgt Jarek Connolly, Mankato even better squadron. T h e M L A p r e p a r e s Squadron, explains the successful characteristics of rocket flight during an Aerospace Education cadets to become leaders course during the 2009 MN Leadership Academy. through academic study and C/SrA Matt Klugherz, 30th practical excises focusing on improving communications and Squadron, Delta seminar. BCOC seminar distininterpersonal skills, affirmation of the leadership skills the guished graduates: C/2nd Lt cadets already have, as well as Korben Weidenborner, St. Cloud provide them ready resources Squadron, Alpha seminar and C/ CMSgt Libby Berg, Grand Rapids that will help them deal with the Squadron, Bravo seminar. challenges confronted by most While the MLA curriculum young leaders. and experience provides a solid Each graduating class had a foundation for being a leader, number of award winners who were selected for overall academy the primary benefit Col. Theis wants cadets to leave with is performance and leadership excela strong dose of confidence in lence. The cadets were presented their awards by Col. Tom Theis, their ability to be leaders. We want them to feel Minnesota Wing commander. empowered, he said. The distinguished graduThat feeling was not lost ate of the BCOC seminar was Cadet Second Lieutenant David on BCOC C/SMSgt Lydia Wiff of Viking Squadron, who said Nelson of Red Wing Squadron. she was excited about applying For the NCOS seminar, the diswhat she had learned because tinguished graduate was Cadet the MLA experience was still Staff Sergeant Caitlin Albrecht fresh in her mind. of North Hennepin Squadron. It really helped me develop Other cadets recognized for that confidence . . . you cant be excellence included: afraid to speak up sometimes. NCOS seminar distinYou may just have an idea that guished graduates: C/A C Megan Halek, North Hennepin would contribute to Civil Air Squadron, Alpha seminar; C/ Patrol as a whole, so speak up AC Abdulrahman Haji, Valley and make a difference, she said. *All pictures courtesy Maj. Squadron, Bravo seminar; C/SrA Jasmine Sands, North Hennepin R i c h a r d S p r o u s e , 2 0 0 9 Minnesota Leadership Academy Squadron, Charlie seminar; and

BACKGROUND PHOTO: C/2nd Lt Korben Weidenborner (St. Cloud Squadron), BCOC Alpha seminar 0 distinguished graduate, proves it not all work and no play at the 2009 Minnesota Leadership Academy.

GROUND TEAM ACADEMY

Minnesota Wing members prepared for search and rescue, anytime, anyplace
Major Richard Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, Group 2 A couple of your friends have decided to spend the weekend hiking. Its a remote area with plenty of trails and waterways, and you expect your friends will have a great time. Suddenly those thoughts are shattered when you receive a call that your friends are missing. Your mind starts racing and your heart is pounding. Where are they? What if theyre injured? What do you do? If you were among the 80 cadets and senior officers who recently attended Minnesota Wings annual Ground Team Academy you possess the skills to perform search and rescue operations, anytime, anyplace. There are so many things that can go wrong in any search and rescue mission. You never know what you may encounter. That is the reason

BACKGROUND PHOTO: Cadets take the high ground to pick up an ELT signal during the 2009 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy. Photo courtesy of Capt. Richard Sprouse, Minnesota Group 2 PAO

why Civil Air Patrol invests so much time and effort in properly training its members when the call comes, said Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, Minnesota Wings Director of Emergency Services, and Ground Team Academy Commander. After some classroom instruction on land navigation, tracking ELTs, conducting a line search, working with search dogs and first aid training, the cadets and senior officers spent several days in the recesses of Camp Ripleys 53,000 acres honing their newly acquired skills under a variety of search and rescue scenarios. Wilberg said the goal of the Ground Team Academy (GTA) is to get everyone attending to complete one level of CAP Emergency Services training. Ground Team Academy is an intensive event designed to help prepare our members mentally, physically and technically to deal with life threatening emergencies. Last year, Minnesota Wing logged 03 actual or training missions totaling a whopping 4,2 personnel hours, 53 air sorties and ,20 air hours. We teach our members to be proactive and think well ahead in a search and rescue situation so they can effectively operate in an ever-changing environment, Wilberg said. The best way to improve life saving skills is to train harder and work smarter. No two rescues are ever alike and CAP members should never take any rescue for granted. Looking back, C/AC Katie Jents of St. Croix Squadron attributes Ground Team Academy to finding her niche in Civil Air Patrol. This program (Ground Team Academy) is so addicting that I want to C/Capt David Johnson of Red Wing Squadron, a GTA instructor, provides come every year just because it is always some map orienteering instruction to GTM1 candidates during the 2009 so fun and enjoyable. GTA was where Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy. Photo courtesy of Capt. Richard I first learned a lot about Emergency Sprouse, Minnesota Group 2 PAO
 

Services, it got me hooked, and now Im the Cadet ES Officer of my squadron. First Lieutenant Nate Stoeckel of Mankato Squadron agreed. I had a blast, and would highly recommend GTA to any member of CAP who plans on being an active participant. The staff was great, and Camp Ripley is a great training facility. I do plan on trying to get more people to go from Mankato next year. Its an easy way to get one level of training out of the way in one weekend. The level of training was also good because it required you to think, but it wasnt such that it was set up for failure. It opened my eyes to a few new things that I hadnt thought of before. Hearing the real life experiences from the staff and how they dealt with them was most beneficial. Were ready to go on a search and rescue mission, anywhere, anytime, said Wilberg.

Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, Minnesota Wings Director of ES, and GTA Commander, congratulates C/SrA Gunnar Bontjes of Anoka Squadron upon successfully completing GTM3 training during the 2009 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy. Photo courtesy of Capt. Richard Sprouse, Minnesota Group 2 PAO

(L-R) 1st Lt. Steve A. Csizmadia and C/Amn Steven L. Csizmadia, both of Mankato Squadron, were among a number of family member teams that attended the 2009 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy. Photo courtesy of Capt. Richard Sprouse, Minnesota Group 2 PAO

Its kind of like a life insurance policy. We pay the premium with training events like Ground Team Academy. We get our dividend on that premium every time were called out on a mission.
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Certificates and badges presented to those who successfully completed the 2009 Minnesota Ground Team Academy. Photo courtesy of Capt. Richard Sprouse, Minnesota Group 2 PAO

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1st Lt. Erik Lindquist Public Affairs Officer Viking Squadron

Anoka and Viking squadron cadets working on the flight line insuring the public safety while planes such as these T6 trainers return to their parking area.

Members Volunteer at Wings of the North Air Expo

Minnesota Wing members were present at the annual Wings of the North Air Expo at Flying Cloud Airport in Eden Prairie, MN. Members from three metro squadrons were on hand to volunteer their time to make the 200 Air Expo a success. Cadets from Anoka Squadron and Eden Prairie based Viking Squadron worked together to help with security and flight-line duties at various locations around the Air Expo. Squadron cadets were stationed on the flightline to provide additional safety to the public while demonstration planes made their way to-and-from their designated parking areas on the field. Cadets were also on hand near the shuttle bus drop-off points to provide additional safety and guidance to the incoming and outgoing visitors.
The Civil Air Patrols Cessna 182 Nav. III glass cockpit airplane on display at the Air Expo.

Air Expo Organizer (L), Major David Kenan (C) (St. Croix Squadron), and Lt. Col. Barney Uhlig (R) (Viking Squadron) discuss operations, while cadets prepare to go out on their assignments. Viking Squadron Cadets C/SSgt Gideon Wiff (L), C/CMSgt Alex Bee (C), and C/A1C Tyler Peabody (R). Cessna 182 static display seen in the background.

The cadets did an outstanding job at their volunteer positions. The execution and rotation of duties was flawless due to the skillful and cooperative attitude among members of both squadrons, primarily their cadet NCOs. The outstanding leadership of the cadet NCOs is to be highly commended. Cadet Charles Atchison, Cadet leader for Anoka Squadron,
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C/TSgt Richard Shmel and C/CMSgt Alex Bee of Viking Squadron did an outstanding job in their leadership roles. They represented the Civil Air Patrol with the highest professional behavior and appearance. The cadets received many unsolicited praises from show organizers and the general public. The Civil Air Patrol also had a vendor display in which more information could be found on the Civil Air Patrol and its missions. Our goal is to promote CAP, and to make people in the community aware of who we are and what we do. CAP also encourages people to join our ranks. CAP educates the public on the aerospace education programs offered by the Civil Air Patrol such as the Fly-A-Teacher Program, and the Making Aerospace Education Real for Students (MARS) program. The display also included one of the Civil Air Patrols newest (Nav. III) glass cockpit Cessna 182 airplanes, and featured onboard high tech aerial imaging equipment for show visitors to view. This static display was a big hit with many visitors. Special thanks to Major David Kenan from St. Croix Squadron and Captain David Coates from Viking Squadron for their work at the display area talking with visitors. Also, Lt. Col. Barney Uhlig and st Lt. Mario Fabrizio, both of Viking Squadron, for working at the Cessna 82 display.
Anoka and Viking squadron cadets preparing to go out on their assigned duties.

Lt. Col. Barney Uhlig (Viking Squadron) discussing Civil Air Patrol opportunities with a young prospective cadet in the Cessna 182 display.

Major David Kenan (St. Croix Squadron) discussing Civil Air Patrol opportunities with a family attending the Air Show.

The Civil Air Patrol is very proud to be able to serve the local community at wonderful activities such as the Air Expo. The Air Expo promotes education and interest in aviation to both young and old, which is also a mission of the Civil Air Patrol. By supporting such activities the Civil Air Patrol works to provide Aerospace education to its members and the community.

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(L-R) C/Capt David Johnson, Earhart Award recipient and Col. Tom Theis, Minnesota Wing Commander.

(L-R) C/2nd Lt David Nelson, Mitchell Award recipient and Lt. Col. John Barsness, Group IV Commander.

RED WING HONORS

Red Wing cadets receive honors in double ceremony
Captain Richard J. Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, Group 2 During a double presentation ceremony on August 20th, two Red Wing Squadron cadets were honored for their commitment. Cadet David Johnson received the Earhart Award, which honors the late Amelia Earhart, a pioneer who set many records for women pilots in aviations infancy. To receive the award, cadets must, among other criteria pass a rigorous 00-question examination covering aerospace topics, leadership theory and staff duties. Once a cadet earns the Earhart Award, he or she is promoted to the grade of cadet captain. Recognized with the Mitchell Award during the ceremony was Cadet David Nelson. The Mitchell Award is given to Civil Air Patrol cadets who have completed the first eight achievements of the cadet program. The cadet milestone is named after a pioneer in aviation and an early supporter of an independent Air Force. Cadets must pass a comprehensive 00 question exam covering aerospace topics and leadership theory. Cadets earning the Mitchell Award are promoted to the rank of cadet second lieutenant.
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Any cadet who earns this award, and who later enters CAPs Senior Officer ranks, is eligible for immediate promotion to CAP 2nd Lt at age 2. In addition, recipients of this award are eligible for advanced placement to the grade of airman first class (E-3) should they choose to enter the U.S. Air Force. They are also eligible for advanced credit in AFROTC, various CAP scholarships, and CAP special activity opportunities. The Civil Air Patrol is the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its missions are aerospace education, emergency services, and the cadet program. The 6-segment cadet program provides opportunities for the learning, maturing, accepting and nurturing of leadership to more than 26,000 Americans from ages 2 to 2. There are approximately ,300 members of CAP in Minnesota. Minnesota Wing routinely flies thousands of hours per year of operational flights, and contributes some 0,000 + personhours to search and rescue, counter drug, disaster preparedness, homeland security, and other humanitarian mission flying. Attending the ceremony was Col. Thomas Theis, Minnesota Wing Commander; Lt. Col. Blaze Cunningham, Minnesota Wing Director of Aerospace Education, Lt. Col. John Barsness, Group IV Commander; Maj. Jeff Bartelt, Group IV Deputy Commander; Lt. Col. Don Mikitta, Wing Chaplain; and Maj. Bryce Duncan, Red Wing Squadron Commander.
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LINDBERG SAR
Civil Air Patrol members search for missing aircraft
1st Lt. George Supan Public Information Officer, Minnesota Wing Minnesota, North and South Dakota CAP members join together in an extensive air and ground search effort for a missing aircraft and pilot. A pilot in a PA 28 Piper Cherokee left Airlink Airport near Lakeville, MN on Friday, November 3, 200 at 5:00 pm. The pilot and aircraft did not arrive at the destination of Hallock, MN. Civil Air Patrol, Minnesota Wing received a call from Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at Tyndall AFB, FL very early on Saturday, November 4, to search for the missing aircraft. On Saturday morning at 7:00 am ground teams were dispatched to an area of the last point of contact from the pilot to begin the search. The pilot sent a message to his family about 6:20 pm on Friday, from the Staples, MN area, that all is well.

In flight Lt. Col. Tom Hollenhorst.

Command Center Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, Incident Commander (R); 1st Lt. George Anderson, Flight Release Officer (L)

Minnesota Wing, Group II had a planned Search and Rescue Training Scheduled at the Anoka Composite Squadron at the Blaine-Anoka airport. The training exercise became a real mission. Capt. Andy Bosshart, Anoka Squadron Command, when called for the mission did not believe it and said, are you kidding? No, was the reply from st Lt. Tim Frame. I will pick you up, on our way to the search site. Saturday was a damp, cold, overcast day and CAP aircraft could not be dispatched until late afternoon when the skies cleared in the search area. The ground teams searched late into the evening without finding a signal from the Emergency Locator Transmitter. On Sunday, CAP members who used 2 aircraft and formed 8 ground teams from Minnesota and North Dakota continued the search under detailed direction of Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, Incident Commander and his team. The Command Center was moved from Anoka to the Crow Wing Composite Squadron in Brainerd, MN. The search started at the break of day light and continued until after dark. The complete planned aircraft route from the Airlake Airport to Hallock was searched. A concentrated search area was developed west and
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Preflight

north of Staples. Staples and the destination airport of Hallock are located in Northwestern, MN. Media from North Dakota and Minnesota wanted information on the search efforts. Interviews were conducted by all of the TV networks, radio stations and newspapers. Some interviews were by phone but most were in person. The media had an opportunity to see the Civil Air Patrol members in action, along with talking to ground and aircraft teams directly involved with the search. They provide the public with information about the continuing search. The search continued with the expansion of the concentrated area from early day light to after dark each day. Pastor, Bob Griggs, said, during a press conference, he married Andrew (the pilot) and Kate Lindberg six weeks ago. This is a very difficult time for the family, he said. Pastor Griggs thanked the Civil Air Patrol for operating so professional, their dedication and volunteering of their time during the search. The family is very grateful for the services provided by the Civil Air Patrol, said Griggs. Aircraft from South Dakota joined in the search and the concentrated search area continued to expand. 8 aircraft and nearly 400 Civil Air Patrol members supported the search mission either on site or from remote areas. The search covered over 4,000 square miles. CAP deployed an advanced imaging system called ARCHER (Airborne Real-time Cueing Hyperspectral Enhanced Reconnaissance) System to help search for Mr. Lindberg and his plane.


ARCHER is a custom-designed system which uses a hyperspectral camera and special software for search and rescue (SAR), disaster impact assessment and relief, and homeland security. ARCHER has three methods for finding things: signature matching (matching reflected light to spectral signatures), and anomaly detection (calculates a statistical model of all the pixels in the image to see if there is a probability that a pixel does not belong in the scene). For this search this system is being used to look for anomalies. Search operations with the ARCHER System along with the many aircraft, aircrews, and ground teams continued. An aircraft was spotted Tuesday, November 17, in the late afternoon by a private pilot flying across the missing aircraft flight path southwest of Bemidji, MN. A Civil Air Patrol ground team from Bemidji and the Clearwater Sheriffs Department went to the crash site about a mile and half from any roads in a very dense wooded area, to mark the site, in the dark of night. Members of the family confirmed the aircraft to be that of their loved one Andrew Lindberg, he died in the crash. Civil Air Patrol members were put into action over the course of the search. The hundreds of hours of volunteer training to be prepared and then the hundreds of members who volunteered for the missing aircraft mission all came together during a time of need by a family who is so grateful to the members of the Civil Air Patrol. Citizens Serving Communities: Above and Beyond. Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, is a nonprofit organization with 58,000 members nationwide. CAP performs 0 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and was credited by the AFRCC with saving 91 lives in fiscal year 2008. Its volunteers also perform homeland security, disaster relief and counter-drug missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. The members play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to the nearly 22,000 young people currently participating in CAP cadet programs. CAP has been performing missions for America for 68 years. Pictures taken by 1st Lt. George Supan


NORTHLAND ORIDES
Northland Cadets Fly in Bemidji
Capt. Robin Helgager Commander, Northland Composite Squadron Ten cadets recently experienced the thrill of aviation, through orientation flights at the Bemidji Regional Airport. The cadets flew a combined 0 hours in two of CAPs Cessna 72s and one Cessna 82. It was awesome! reports Cadet Chris Madsen, age 4, of Bemidji. I got to use the controls and get the feel of how the aircraft handled. The hour-long flights in single-engine Cessna aircraft introduced the cadets to the science that makes flight possible. They learned about navigation, weather, aircraft instruments, flight maneuvers, and more. The cadets day began by helping preflight their aircraft. Working with their pilot, they taxied their aircraft to Bemidji Airports runway 3, gave it full throttle and took off, climbing to 3,000 feet. While aloft, it was the cadets who were handling the controls, during the non-critical stages of the flight. You really have to pay attention when youre at the controls, explained Cadet Mary Rogers, 4, but once you get past your initial
Cadet Jacob Rogers, 12, (Bemidji) smiles as he prepares for takeoff during the Civil Air Patrols orientation flight day at Bemidji Regional Airport.

nervousness, its fantastic. Once they reached their assigned altitude, the cadets turned towards their destinations; either Thief River Falls, Detroit Lakes, Park Rapids or Grand Rapids, where they made a brief stop. Then it was another cadets turn at the controls for the flight home. CAP pilots repeated this round-trip throughout the day. Ive been flying cadets for over three years, and its always exciting for me just to see the look on the kids faces, said one of the pilots, CAP Capt. Mark Johnston of Duluth. Pilots volunteering their time were, Major Charles Schumacher and Capt. Mark Johnston from the Duluth Squadron, Senior Member Jim Williamson flew from the Walker Squadron and Capt. Ray Majkzrak flew in the pilot rotation from Bemidji. Civil Air Patrol provided the aircraft and fuel, at no cost to the cadets or the pilots. The cadets participating were: Mandy Bushong, Jesse Bushong, Cody DeGrote, Timothy Johnson, David Helgager, Jacob Rogers, Joseph Rogers, Mary Rogers, Tom Rogers.

L-R Cadets Nick Weber, 12, (Bemidji) and Tim Johnson, 14, (Menahga) assist Major Charles Schumacher (Duluth) in pre-flighting their Civil Air Patrol aircraft before enjoying an orientation flight.

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ST CLOUD FLY IN
Pancakes and planes prove winning combination for squadrons fundraiser
Captain Richard J. Sprouse Public Affairs Officer Group 2

Pancakes and planes proved to be the winning combination for the St. Cloud Composite Squadrons annual fundraiser. Squadron members served ,300 breakfasts of pancakes and sausage, and raised $2,00 for squadron activities during the Sunday, June 28 event held at the St. Cloud Airport. Our crew of seniors and cadets came early, worked hard, and stayed late; the result was another very successful breakfast, said Lt. Col. Jim Schlick, the events organizer. Between the Army National Guards CH-47 Chinook helicopter, the LifeLink helicopter, several experimental aircraft, and our own CAP glass-cockpit 82 with the avionics power on, our
C/SrA Michael Norton in the blister of a Minnesota Army National Guard Chinook helicopter on display during St. Cloud Composite Squadrons annual fly-in breakfast on June 28.

C/SrA Michael Norton serves up breakfast to one of the 1,300 people who attended the St. Cloud Composite Squadrons annual fly-in breakfast on June 28.

airport guests had quite a bit to look at. Schlick also thanked the St. Cloud Times, Shopping News, WJON Radio, KNSI Radio, and Charter Communications for their generous promotion of the event. Schlick said the squadron is already looking forward to next years event. Since it seemed that everyone had fun, I told Chris Cakes (food vendor) to put us on their schedule for next June 27. Mark your calendar now!
C/2nd Lt Derek Cash provides flightline security while the LifeLink helicopter departs St. Cloud Airport. The helicopter was among a number of aircraft on display during St. Cloud Composite Squadrons annual fly-in breakfast on June 28. The event raised $2,100 for squadron activities.

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Members Ride in CH-47 Chinook Helicopter

1st Lt. Erik Lindquist Public Affairs Officer, Viking Squadron Viking Squadron members were honored to have the opportunity to fly with the Minnesota Army Air National Guard in a CH47 Chinook helicopter. The flight originated at the St. Paul Downtown Airport, also known as Holman Field. Squadron members also toured the facility, and were able to view the Blackhawk helicopters stationed at the site. The CH 47 Chinook helicopter has a crew of three (pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer), it can carry up to 55 troops or 24 litters with 3 attendants. It is built for heavy lifting, and can carry up to 26,680 pounds of additional weight. The Chinook can reach a maximum speed of 6 MPH and a service ceiling of 8,500 feet.

CH47 Chinook helicopter taking off.

Experiences like these helps the Civil Air Patrol promote aerospace education to its members. Cadets (ages 12-18) especially benefit from these experiences in which they grow their aviation knowledge

and interest. Most cadets continue to pursue aviation in a broader part of their lives either professionally or personally, and it is one of many reasons why they join the Civil Air Patrol.

Viking Squadron members in front of the CH47 Chinook helicopter that they rode in.

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St. Croix Cadets Shine at 11th CTG Minnesota Wing 2009 Summer Encampment
2nd Lt. Scott Richardson Public Affairs Officer St. Croix Composite Squadron NCR-MN-122 Minnesota Wing, Civil Air Patrol MINNESOTAAt this years Minnesota Wings Summer Encampment, six of the St. Croix Squadrons Cadets had served as staff members for this years 11th Cadet Training Group (CTG) at Camp Ripley near Little Falls, Minnesota. Once again, our St. Croix Squadron Cadets have consistently shown their dedication and commitment to being some of the best in the Minnesota Wing, Civil Air Patrol. Cadets from our Squadron have worked very hard to achieve the different levels of knowledge and professionalism, which have led them to be selected many times before to fill these important staffing roles at past Minnesota Wing Encampments. Out of the 25 encampment staff positions available at each year, St. Croix cadets have been selected to fill these important leadership roles before. Here are the St. Croix Squadron Cadets who served as staff members at this years th CTG encampment and the position they held. Executive Staff: Deputy Commander - C/Capt Haylee Fosterling Command Chief - C/MSgt Mike Weston 2st Cadet Training Squadron First Sergeant - C/SMSgt David Trudeau Charlie Flight Sergeant - C/MSgt Grady Bell 22nd Cadet Training Squadron Squadron Commander - C/Capt. Caleb Norman Support Staff Logistics Officer - C/CMSgt Robert Spear
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Maj. Matt Wiskow provides land navigation instruction to C/A1C Kati Jents of St. Croix Squadron during the 2009 Minnesota Wing Encampment at Camp Ripley. Photo Capt Richard Sprouse

In addition to the 6 cadets who filled staff positions,  other cadets from our squadron had attended this years Summer Encampment as well. All 5 of our cadets had a great time teaching and learning the leadership and basic the skills all cadets need to have to be successful in their Civil Air Patrol cadet careers. For 8 of our cadets, this was their first experience at a summer encampment and each of them had a great experience and forged new friendships and memories, which will last each of them a lifetime. Here are all 5 St. Croix Cadets who attended this years  CTG, Minnesota Wing Summer Encampment: C/Amn. Jackson Bartlett, C/Amn. Mohammad Battah, C/SMSgt. Grady Bell, C/AB Samanth Carlstrom, C/Capt. Haylee Fosterling, C/TSgt. Noah Hite, C/AC Kati Jents, C/AB Jake Krueger, C/Capt. Caleb Norman, C/AC Ethan Pike, C/CMSgt. Robert Spear, C/SSgt. Alex Swanson, C/AB Josh Tarka, C/CMSgt. David Trudeau, C/MSgt. Michael Weston; The th CTG Commander has singled out two of our cadets for having achieved superior performance as Distinguished Graduates. They are C/Amn. Jackson Bartlett, C/SSgt. Alex Swanson. Congratulations are in order for all 5 of our cadets for their hard work each have put in to reach this level of success, so far within the Civil Air Patrol.
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Minnesota Encampment Tests Skills, Endurance

Captain Richard Sprouse Public Affairs Officer, 2009 Minnesota Wing Encampment For most students, summer is a time to unwind from the rigors of the school year. Not so for the cadets that attended the 200 Minnesota Wing Encampment at Camp Ripley from June 20-27. Each summer, CAP Basic Cadets from across the state and region under the oversight of Cadet Staff Members are introduced to new experiences such as the confidence course, land navigation, and weapons familiarization, as well as annual offerings in moral leadership, aerospace and military career opportunities, physical training, and drill movements. While the Cadets friends were going about their daily routine, these Cadets were here testing the limits of their abilities and striving to improve, said C/Col Charlie Cox, th CTG Commander. An event that stood out to many occurred during the final inspection of encampment when the Cadet Staffs Standards and Evaluation team inspected the Cadets uniforms, living areas, and
BACKGROUND PHOTO: An inspection team moves up and down the rows evaluating footlocker displays and critiquing uniforms during the 2009 Minnesota Wing Encampment at Camp Ripley. Alpha flight celebrates another victory on their way to the volleyball championship during the 2009 Minnesota Wing Encampment at Camp Ripley.

footlockers. A rare 00% overall score was recorded by C/AC Zachary Dietz of Viking Squadron. Encampment taught me self discipline as well as self confidence to do my best, Dietz said. The th Cadet Training Group consisted of 86 Basic Cadets, 7 Staff Development Squadron Cadets, and 28 Cadet Staff Members. Nearly 30 Senior Officers and volunteers were also there. Cadets and staff from Missouri, North Dakota, as well as dozen from Iowa participated in the event. Minnesota has a well-earned reputation as one of the best run encampments in the nation, said 2nd

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2009 Minnesota Wing Encampment Awardees:

Encampment Honor Flight - Charlie Flight CTG Volleyball Champions Alpha Flight Highest average inspection score Bravo Flight Highest Drill Competition Score Charlie Flight Distinguished Graduates of the CTG C/TSgt John Ke, St. Paul Squadron; C/SrA Jacob Jones, Duluth Squadron; C/Amn Jackson Bartlett, St. Croix Squadron; C/A1C Grant Bauer, Anoka Squadron; C/SSgt Tim Winnes, Ft. Snelling Squadron; C/TSgt John Dvorak, St. Cloud Squadron; C/SSgt Alex Swanson, St. Croix; C/SrA Trevor Klatt, Grand Rapids Squadron; C/Amn Daniel Fitterer, Mankato Squadron; C/SSgt Frank Albrecht, North Hennepin, C/SMSgt Tim Italiano, North Dakota
C/SrA Devyn Phelps, among the 11 Iowa Wing cadets to attend Encampment in Minnesota, receives some personal instruction on the 240-B machine gun from Technical Sergeant Dan Payette of the Minnesota Air National Guard. Payette received his Spaatz Award in 1998 and was the Encampment cadet commander in 1997 and 1998.

Squadron Distinguished Graduate 21st CTS C/Amn Megan Halek, North Hennepin Squadron Distinguished Graduate 22nd CTS C/SrA Matt Klugherz, 130th Squadron Squadron Distinguished Graduate SDS C/TSgt Christen Furlong, 130th Squadron Most Improved Leader SDS C/A1C Abdulrahman Haji, Valley Squadron Encampment Commanders Award for Outstanding Achievement C/A1C Jasmine Sands, North Hennepin Squadron Wing Commanders Award for Academic Excellence C/A1C Jasmine Sands Commandants Award for Leadership C/Maj Billy Hoffman, 130th Squadron CTG Command Staff Excellence Award C/Capt David Johnson, Red Wing Squadron CTG Support Staff Excellence Award C/Capt Joshua Carr, Missouri Field Leadership Excellence Award SM Gene Enos, Southeast Minnesota Squadron Senior Support Excellence Award Capt Richard Sprouse, Group 2

Lt. Carol Hinkle of the Burlington (Iowa) Composite Squadron. I learned so much being here. C/Col Cox said he and the staff really enjoyed the opportunity to work with the Basic Cadets.

Its quite amazing to watch them grow throughout the week, Cox said. If these cadets can find the confidence to tackle and succeed at encampment, they will have the confidence to take on any problem life throws at them. For more on this years encampment including more images and newsletters please go to http://www.cadetleadership.org/

Cadets make their way across Camp Ripleys confidence course during the 2009 Minnesota Wing Encampment at Camp Ripley.

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Flying High Black Hawk Style

C/SrA Caitlin Albrecht North Hennepin Squadron, Minnesota Wing
An enthusiastic group of cadets left North Hennepin Squadron on Tuesday, August , 200, ready for adventure. Piling into two CAP vans, the group comprised of nineteen eager cadets, senior members 2nd Lt. J.D. Teter, 2nd Lt. Daniel Dawson, and 2nd Lt. Suzanne Albrecht, and parents Chris Chanski and Air Force Major Paul Shadle headed to the St. Paul Army National Guard Base. There was excitement in the air as the cadets eagerly awaited their activity of the evening: a much-anticipated Black Hawk helicopter ride. The UH-60 Black Hawk is the Armys primary tactical transport helicopter, capable of transporting 4 combat-equipped troops or 8,000 lbs of cargo over 300 miles in range. Its twin-engine; 4-blade design can cruise at 70 mph and operate in almost any type of terrain or weather. The MN National Guard has 6 UH-60 Black Hawks and uses them both in overseas deployment missions and in domestic operations here at home in such roles as fire fighting, flood relief and search and rescue. After a safety briefing and distribution of hearing protection, the first flight of cadets marched out single file to the waiting Black Hawk. The excitement rose as the cadets strapped themselves in, exchanged grins and attempted conversation as the roar of the whipping rotary blades grew in intensity. Thenliftoff! The Black Hawk rose into the air with ease as cadets C/SrA Albrecht, C/SSgt Grimaldi, C/Amn Halek, C/Amn Heath, C/Amn Kessler, C/Amn Klick, C/Amn Miller, Cadet Shadle, and C/Amn Williams peered out the windows at the shrinking landscape below. The relatively smooth ride was punctuated by a few timely aerial maneuvers including sharp ascent and descent and steep banking

to the left and right courtesy of the Army National Guard Pilot in Command, CPT Bruce Kraemer; Pilot, CW2 Chris Frazer; and Crew Chief, SSG Rob Glazebrook. THAT was so COOL! exclaimed C/Amn Arden Heath upon settling on terra firma. After about twenty minutes, the Black Hawk descended once more to pick up the second flight of excited cadets. C/SSgt Frank Albrecht, C/st Lt David Chanski, C/2nd Lt Blake Zafft, C/SMSgt Reuben Miller, C/Capt Jacob Otterson, C/SMSgt Matthew Bruffey, C/SSgt Jake Teter, C/SrA Ryan Heath and C/Amn Danny Dawson accompanied by 2nd Lt J.D. Teter took flight next. While they waited for their comrades to return, the first flight cadets were given a detailed tour of a stationary Black Hawk helicopter by squadron Aerospace Instructor and Army National Guard Black Hawk pilot, Major Steve Grimaldi. Twenty minutes later the entire group was reunited, and the NHS cadets and senior members were homeward bound. All in all, the evening proved to be a real treat for cadets and seniors alike, and who knows? Perhaps it also served as inspiration for some future Hawks to take to the skies. A huge thank you goes out to Major Steve Grimaldi for making this thrilling field trip a reality and contributing this article. 28

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