Photo credit Major Richard Sprouse

Northern Flights
The Official Magazine of the Minnesota Wing, Civil Air Patrol
FALL - WINTER 2010

Tomorrows Leaders Today!

C/Capt. David Johnson of Red Wing served as the commander of the 23rd Cadet Training Squadron at this years Minnesota Wing Cadet Encampment. In this issue see how Johnson and his peers led the most meaningful week of training that our cadets will receive.

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 Summer-Fall 2010 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.

Superior Pilot
Lt. Col. Alan Matson Stan/Eval Officer, Minnesota Wing A superior pilot is a one who utilizes his/her superior judgment so as not to be forced to exhibit his/her superior skills. In MN Wing we are fortunate that a superior pilot was aboard an aircraft during a recent flight. On June 9th, 200 Capt. Paul Van Brunt of the 30th Squadron was providing flight instruction for Cadet Alex Byland, also of the 30th Squadron. After conducting a normal start-up, taxi-out, and thorough run-up, a takeoff run was commenced. No unusual indications or sounds were noted during the takeoff until the aircraft reached 2300 ft. MSL (400 ft. AGL), at which time the engine stopped producing power while the propeller continued to windmill. Capt. Van Brunt reacted by immediately performing the BOLD FACE items on the red bordered emergency checklist, reestablished power by adjusting the throttle to a setting of less than full power, and turned to back to the field to make a landing. Since he had reestablished partial power (somewhere near the bottom of the green arc) he was able to maintain level flight, and he then completed the checklist items, including the PRECAUTIONARY LANDING checklist section. Capt. Van Brunts timely, appropriate actions, including his use of the checklist during a stressful situation, are a demonstration of superior judgment in action. He knew that he could do something about the situation, and that utilizing the checklist would be the best course of action. His decision to immediately turn back to the field to terminate the flight, rather than trying to solve the problem while


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sorties. This will help to burn carbon build-up from the plugs, and may help us to avoid the need for another exhibition of superior judgment and skill.

Thank you Capt. Van Brunt. You truly are a Superior Pilot!
Cadet Alex Byland with Capt. Paul Van Brunt.

airborne, was right on! While Van Brunt did exhibit superior skill in this case, the need for this exhibition of skill was certainly not brought on by error on his part. Pauls recovery of the aircraft has really put Minnesota Wing in the limelight in a positive way throughout the country. Well done! said Minnesota Wing Commander, Col. Tom Theis. After a thorough inspection of the aircraft engine it was discovered that the spark plugs were fouled. This may have been due to the number of recent cadet training flights in this aircraft, which typically involve many takeoffs and landings during which the mixture is not leaned. While hotter plugs were installed to make fouling less likely in the future, CAP Instructors might consider conducting precautionary run-ups (while leaning the mixture a bit) prior to conducting every other takeoff during initial training
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MN Squadron flag pole dedication with a flag flown over Afghanistan

Capt. George Supan, Public Affairs Officer, Anoka Squadron All pictures courtesy of Lloyd Johnson Federal Legislative Representatives, Local Officials, friends and family members attended the flag pole dedication by Minnesota Wing, Anoka Composite Squadron, at the Anoka-Blaine Airport on July 20, 200. Commander, Capt. Shelly Supan who presented it to st Lt. Don Raleigh in turn presented it to the Color Guard Commander, C/CMSgt. Don Raleigh. The Color Guard proceeded to the flag pole, unfolded and attached the Flag. While the Flag was being raised reveille was played at the request of Birr. When the Flag reached the top everyone joined in the singing of the National Anthem. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchars and Representative Michelle Bachmanns representatives shared their thanks for the services of PFC Birr and Civil Air Patrol to our Country. Army, PFC Matthew Birr, from Fridley, MN was in Afghanistan last summer sitting in a tent when he was hit in the back of the head with an incoming shell. The bullet went through his head and out the front. The bullet lodged in the computer he was sitting at. It was retrieved and Matt now carries the bullet. Matt has had many surgeries and now part

Flag raising - Anoka Color Guard

of his skull is of a man made material. PFC Birr was a Cadet at the CAP, Anoka Composite Squadron before he joined the Army. Matt has been back to the Squadron several times and on one visit asked where is the

Presenting the Flag - PFC Matt Birr presented Commander, Capt. Shelly Supan the U.S. Flag flown over Afghanistan when Birr was injured.

Army, Private First Class, Matthew Birr carried the U.S. Flag and presented it to Anoka Composite Squadron,
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Group - People attending the event.

PFC Matt Birr - Greg Swanholm, Representative for Senator Amy Klobuchar

Blaine Mayor, Tim Ryan

flag pole? Matt was given the U.S. Flag that flew over the area in Afghanistan the day he was hit. He wanted to fly his U.S. Flag on the Squadron flag pole. The Squadron used to have a f l a g p o l e when he was a member. Some time ago the pole was hit and damaged so it was removed. Birr made an on the spot contribution to start a fund to have a flag pole. The Squadron, Finance Officer, 2nd Lt. Kris Brown, President of Brown Technologies contacted people for donations and a contractor, Interstate CM owned by Steve Erickson and Lyle Dahlin donated the material and labor to construct an area and pole base that will not be destroyed. Muska electric and IBEW Local 0 put in three lights and wiring so the flag will be light at night. Ground Tech, Brown Technologies and Total Fire Protection contributed time and material. Brown Technologies and others have contributed toward the flag pole along with CAP


members. Those contributing suggested the Squadron purchase a flag pole fitting the sacrifice already made by PFC Birr. So a 25 foot industrial flag pole was installed.

Tera Dahl, Representative for Michele Bachmann

The event was held to dedicate the flag pole and posting of the Colors with PFC Matt Birrs flag. All contributors, with time,

material and donations were there as special guests for the event. PFC Birr and his mother flew in from Colorado; Legislative Representative Greg Swanholm from U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchars office; Tera Dahl from U.S. Representative Michele Bachmanns office; Mayor Tim Ryan, Blaine; Andy Westerberg, Metropolitan Airport Commissioner; Bill Willis, USAFR, State Director; CAP, Minnesota Wing Staff and airport hangar neighbors joined Anoka Composite members for the event and thanked PFC Birr for his service. A plaque with the picture of the light flag & pole was given to PFC Birr and Certificates of Appreciation were given to all who contributed time and material. The ceremony concluded with PFC Matt Birr being called to front and center in front of the flag pole by 1st Lt. Don Raleigh. All in attendance saluted PFC Birr in honor of his service and sacrifice he has given to the United States of America for our freedom.


Civil Air Patrol loses a friend in Kenneth Wofford

Retired Air Force Colonel Kenneth Wofford, a friend of the Civil Air Patrol and a patriot, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 5th, 2010.
Col. Wofford served as a pilot with the famous Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. He completed primary training at Tuskegees (Alabama) Moton Field, he was sent to nearby Tuskegee Army Air Field for completion of flight training and for transition to combat type aircraft. In his military career he accumulated over 9000 flying hours and flew over 100 combat zone missions during World War II and the Korean War. After the war he served in numerous command and staff assignments in the Air Force including command of support units, flying squadrons and as commander of the Tachikawa Air Base Complex in Japan. Col. Wofford was very active in local and national volunteer work in a variety of diverse organizations including the Air Force Association and its General E.W. Rawlings Chapter in Minneapolis. He is a recipient of the Civil Air Patrols Frank G. Brewer Memorial Aerospace Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant contributions to the aerospace field over his military and civilian career. Col. Wofford would always make himself available to mentor and advise youth toward educational preparedness. He spoke often on the importance of education to Civil Air Patrol cadets. He would always make himself available to speak to CAP members and units with his last CAP appearance at the 2009 Minnesota Wing


Retired Air Force Col. Ken Wofford (center), speaking to members of the Anoka County Composite Squadron at a change of command ceremony in 2004. File photo courtesy of Minnesota Wing.

Conference in Alexandria, MN. There he talked about the battles won by the Tuskegee Airmen against racism and fascism that were left out of the history textbooks. Col. Wofford also urged the cadets to follow your dreams but do not forget about your education. He would always stress how learning the basics, math, science, English, geography and history will help you become a better person and a better citizen. Col. Wofford was a very strong supporter of CAP and the Cadet Program in particular. He was one of the original Tuskegee Airmen, and was a true hero in every sense of the word. said Col. Tom Theis, the Minnesota Wing Commander.


News from the people and squadrons of Minnesota Wing

A New Pilot in Minnesota Wing
Lt. Col. Al Matson

Pilot achieves 2 Milestones

1st Lt. Scott Richardson On Sept 2nd Group 3 Commander, Lt. Col. Dick Johnson presented Capt. David Yost, Commander of St. Croix Squadron with his senior CAP Pilots Wings for logging over ,000 hours of time as a pilot.

C/CMSgt. Alex Bee at the controls of a Cessna 172 during the 2006 Minnesota Wing Flight Academy. Photo by Lt. Col. Tom Woods

August 0th was a great day for one of our members. C/CMSgt. Alex Bee of Viking Squadron achieved a goal he set out for himself many years ago. Anyone who knows him knew the outcome was never in doubt, because he has always demonstrated determination and a strong desire to succeed. Please join me in congratulating C/CMSgt. Bee on passing his Private Pilot practical exam, and being presented with his Private Pilot certificate!

Capt. David Yost (right) is presented a certificate commemorating his 50th cadet Orientation Flight by Group 3 Commander, Lt. Col. Dick Johnson.

Way to go Alex!
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He also received a certificate from Lt. Col. Johnson recognizing him for completing his 0th Cadet Orientation Flight. Capt. Yost is a Certified Flight Instructor instrument, a Cadet Orientation pilot, Mission Pilot, a Minnesota Wing Instructor pilot and a Form  check pilot as well.
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Please also congratulate C/2nd Lt. Matthew Bruffey also of North Hennepin Squadron on his appointment as the CAC Vice-Chairman/Recorder. Cadets Chanski and Bruffey were selected by the Wing Commander after completion of an application and interview process.

1st Lt. Tom Fitzhenry receives the 130th Squadron flag from Group 4 Commander, Major Jeff Bartelt.

New Commander at the 130th

Col. Tom Theis Please congratulate st Lt. Tom Fitzhenry as the new commander of the 30th Squadron in Lakeville. Group 4 Commander, Major Jeff Bartelt presided at a ceremony on July 6th that transferred command from st Lt. Karen Anderson to st Lt. Fitzhenry.

Cadets Deliver CAP Reports at the Capital

Col. Kevin Sliwinski Thank you to the members of the Minnesota Wing Color Guard and their Senior Members who assisted me in delivering the CAP Annual Report to the members of the State Legislature. The members assisting were: C/SMSgt. Jasmine Sands, C/SSgt. Samuel Kessler, C/SRA Mitch Hanson, C/SRA Stephanie Sawina, C/SRA Garan Williams, st Lt. J.D. Teter, and Sponsor Member Jan Sands. The members also had the opportunity to meet former and candidate for Governor, Sen. Mark Dayton during the visit.
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New Cadet Advisory Council Chair Announced

Capt. Susan Blessman Please join me in congratulating C/Capt. David Chanski of North Hennepin Squadron on his appointment as Cadet Advisory Council Chairman.
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C/Capt. David Chanski

Members recognized for CAP Service

Col. Tom Theis During the June 2th Minnesota Wing Staff Meeting I had the great pleasure of recognizing the following members for heir service to Civil Air Patrol.

Lt. Col. Blaze Cunningham, our Wings Director of Aerospace Education, for his 15 years of service.

Lt. Col. Alan Matson, our Wings Stan Eval Officer, received recognition for 10 years of service.

Lt. Col. Anna-Marie Bistodeau, our Wings Character Development Officer, for 25 years of service.





Minnesota Wing conducts statewide SAREX

By Major Richard Sprouse, Group II PAO, Minnesota Wing All photos courtesy of Major Richard Sprouse (Hutchinson, Minn.) Minnesota Wing conducted a statewide SAREX from September 0-4. The Hutchinson Squadron provided a number of air crew and ground crew training opportunities to the 40 Minnesota Wing members attending the event there.

A cadet flight line crew in Hutchinson poses for the camera during Minnesotas statewide SAREX.

Major Ron MacCarthy, Minnesota Wing HQ, plans a sortie during Minnesotas statewide SAREX.

Hutchinson mission base staff, flight line cadets, and air crews are briefed prior to Minnesotas statewide SAREX held September 10-14.

LEFT: Flight Officer Wade Yahnke of Mankato Squadron refuels his plane before a mission during Minnesotas statewide SAREX.

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RIGHT: Mission base staff in Hutchinson share a light moment during Minnesotas statewide SAREX.

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A ground team prepares for a mission during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy.

A ground team conducts a line search during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy.

Recent Ground Team Academy graduates respond to emergency

Major Richard J. Sprouse, Public Affairs Officer 2010 Minnesota Ground Team Academy All photos courtesy Major Richard Sprouse Members of the 200 Minnesota Ground Team Academy (GTA) participated in tornado and straightline wind cleanup efforts shortly after graduation. From August 3-, the 0 members attending GTA had been honing their ground team and emergency responder skills at the Arden Hills Army Training Site (AHATS) when severe weather wreaked havoc in the St. Cloud area  miles away. We heard that hundreds of trees had been downed, thousands of people were without power, and there was a need for volunteers to assist with the clean up, said Lt. Col. Chet Wilberg, GTA commander. What better way to apply what youve just learned. Cleanup is a term well known in Arden Hills, a Minneapolis/St. Paul suburb. The AHATS, formerly known as Twin Cities
A casualty is checked for injuries during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy.

Army and Ammunition Plant, was placed on the Superfund cleanup list in 983 due to soil and water contamination generated in the production of ammunition from WWII through the first Gulf War. The area has been on the rebound the past decade. The ,00-acre AHATS site is now being used by the Minnesota National Guard to conduct land navigation, drivers training, small unit tactics and headquarters training. A $ million readiness center to house several Guard units and about 240 soldiers is scheduled for completion in September 20. Held previously at Camp Ripley, Minnesotas 3,000-acre training facility in central Minnesota, record troop training levels there had the wing searching for a new place to conduct its yearly GTA. The AHATS was a perfect fit.
Continued on page 17 . . .
Cadets prepare to move a casualty during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy.

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Members of Nechama, a Jewish disaster response organization based in the Twin Cities, worked with members of Mankato Squadron during clean up efforts in Rice, Minn.

Three members of the Mankato Squadron remove debris from the tornados and straight line winds that hit the St. Cloud area late last week.

Minnesota members help with storm clean up

Major Richard J. Sprouse, Public Affairs Officer, Group II All pictures courtesy of Major Richard Sprouse Civil Air Patrol members from across Minnesota spent the weekend in the St. Cloud area assisting with clean up efforts after late week tornados and straight line winds snapped or uprooted hundreds of trees, toppled silos, and cut power to several thousand homes. Strong winds on Thursday evening led to an initial request for CAP to provide aerial photos to assess storm damage, but the mission was delayed by weather. Less than 24-hours later severe storms and winds rocked the area Friday causing reported damage in three central Minnesota counties. Fortunately, only one injury was reported when a semi-truck C/Amn Travis Fisher of Mankato Squadron assists with clean up efforts was blown over near the small in Rice, Minn. town of Rice, which bore the brunt of the storm. Aircrews from 30th, Brainerd, and North Hennepin squadrons later provided the National Weather Service with aerial photographs of the storms path. The aerial photos CAP provided verified that tornadoes and C/Amn Anthony Miller of Mankato straight line winds in excess of 80 miles per hour blasted through the Squadron assists with clean up efforts in Rice, Minn. area, said Major Paul Pieper, Minnesota Wing emergency services
 

Storm clean up Continued . . .

GTA Academy Continued from page 14 . . .

Ground team instructor, Major Jay Craswell of 130th Squadron, provides some UDF instruction during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Ground Team Academy.

2nd Lt. Dan Sargent of Mankato Squadron assists with clean up efforts in Rice, Minn.

director. Its a miracle that no one was seriously injured or killed. Clean up over the weekend brought ground team members from 30th, Grand Rapids, Hutchinson, Mankato, Northland, St. Cloud, St. Paul, and Viking squadrons to the area. Mankato squadron teamed up with members of Nechama, a Jewish disaster response organization based in the Twin Cities. Nechama, which is Hebrew for comfort, deploys volunteers to help communities clean up after floods, tornados, and other natural disasters. The two groups worked together removing dozens of felled tress from neighborhoods in Rice, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, and St. Cloud. Their efforts were much appreciated by Gene and Betty Kirchner, an elderly couple from Rice who shook the hands of each CAP and Nechama member. We are so thankful for all youve done for us. Saying thank you just doesnt seem enough, said Mrs. Kirchner. Cadet Airman Travis Fisher of Mankato squadron summed up the feelings of everyone who assisted with the aerial imaging and clean up effort. Its a good feeling you get when you do something like this. The people are so appreciative. It makes being a Civil Air Patrol member really worth it.


Our St. Paul Squadron has utilized the facility for some of their training and recommended it when Camp Ripley wasnt available, Wilberg said. The good relations established between St. Paul Squadron and the AHATS staffs made it happen. With plenty of open space and varied terrain and scenarios, the 0 GTA members trained for an event similar to what happened in the St. Cloud area. It was a good training experience that gave us the opportunity to train together in simulated real world situations as a team and evaluate individual capabilities, Wilberg said, You never know when to expect a call for assistance from other local, state and federal emergency responders. We didnt expect the call to come within 24-hours of GTA graduation. That call came Saturday, August 4 when Ground Team Academy attendees were asked to assist with cleanup efforts the following day in St. Cloud, Minn., an area hard hit by tornados and straight-line winds late that week. Some of the challenges our members encountered during the GTA were invaluable in accomplishing the mission in the St. Cloud area, Wilberg added. As expected, our members deployed with the proper training, motivated to help, and did an outstanding job working there, he said. Minnesota Wing has been requested to return to the St. Cloud area this weekend to continue cleanup efforts.


St. Croix Squadron Celebrates Double Mitchell Awards

1st Lt. Scott Richardson Public Affairs Officer, St. Croix Squadron Most Civil Air Patrol Squadrons seldom have a Mitchell Award presentation for cadets who reach the command level in the Cadet program, but the St. Croix Squadron had a double Mitchell Award night. It was definitely a packed house with all of the squadron members, dignitaries, family members, Minnesota Wing members, special guests and friends. We were also visited by Civil Air Patrol State Director, Mr. Bill Willis, Lt. Col. Broome, C/Lt. Col. Billy Hoffman, C/CMSgt. Smith, Capt. Paul Van Brunt, st Lt. Colleen McAurthur Both Cadet Second Lieutenants Grady Bell & David Trudeau received the General Billy Mitchell Awards in a brief ceremony, which was held at the St. Croix Squadron hangar. Both Gen. Billy Mitchell Awards were presented by the Minnesota Wing, Civil Air Patrols Group 3 Commander, Lt. Col. Richard Johnson and members his staff. Also, in attendance for this special double Mitchell Award ceremony were some distinguished guests. Accepting our invitation to attend were Minnesota State Senator, Kathy Saltzman and representing Congresswoman Michele Bachmann was Ms. Tera Dahl. Ms. Tera Dhal had read a statement on behalf of Congresswoman Michele Bachmann who could not be present at this ceremony. She presented a copy of each to both C/2nd Lt. Grady Bell & C/2nd Lt. David Trudeau, stating her appreciation and her congratulation to both on their successes in Civil Air Patrol. State Senator Kathy Saltzman then personally talked to the assembled squadron, family and friends to express her appreciation for inviting her to this special occasion and congratulated both Cadet Lieutenants on their accomplishments in attaining the Gen. Billy Mitchell Awards. The General Billy Mitchell Award signals the
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(L-R) C/2nd Lt. Grady Bell & David Trudeau with their Gen. Billy Mitchell Awards.

completion of phase II - Leadership and the beginning of phase III - Command for cadets. The Cadet program consists of 6 achievements throughout 4 phases, which range from Learning, Leadership, Command and executive phases of the program. The Gen. Billy Mitchell Award has existed since 964. This award honors the late Brigadier General Billy Mitchell, aviation pioneer, advocate, and staunch supporter of an independent Air Force for America. The award is earned after completing the first eight achievements of the cadet program. In addition, the cadet must pass an arduous 00-question examination testing leadership theory and aerospace topics. Since its inception over 30 years ago, more than 42,000 cadets have earned this honor. After the ceremony our members, special guests and family were treated to refreshments and cake. Pictures were taken with our honored guests as mementos for the cadets and their families.
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They Look Tough, But We Can Beat Em!

C/MSgt Jasmine Sands, North Hennepin Squadron
teams that would compete for the title of North Central Region Color Guard Champion: Nebraska, North Dakota, Missouri, and Minnesota. The schedule was handed out, and the staff was introduced. Cadet project officer C/Col. Joshua Carr explained that the purpose of color guard competitions was not just to win, but also to benefit all teams by increasing espirit de corps. There are also benefits to the cadet career by increasing leadership, aerospace, and uniform knowledge; improving drill skills; and providing opportunities to serve. Exhaustion soon over-powered excitement, and the teams rested after their long drive. Tomorrow would be a highly competitive and stressful day. As the color guard had expected, Saturday was a full day of competition. The Mile Run was done in two heats with two teams in each heat. The Nebraska and Missouri teams ran first followed by the Minnesota and North Dakota teams in a close race. Immediately after the run breakfast was served. Following breakfast was In-Ranks Inspection. The teams waited anxiously in the hall for their turn to be inspected. In-Ranks Inspections are a stressful experience. The team stands perfectly still as judges examine every detail of their uniforms. In a regular inspection, each cadet is judged individually. This also occurs in the In-Ranks Inspection.

The Color Guard performs its Standard Drill routine at the 2010 NCR Color Guard Competition.

With a ten hour drive in front of them, the members of the Minnesota Wing Champion Color Guard Team, along with their escorts, st Lt. JD Teter and Capt. Susan Blessman, enthusiastically packed their van and took off from the Crystal Airport on May 4th. Their mission was to motivate and dominate at regional color guard competition in Missouri. The color guard members felt a bit nervous as they arrived at Missouris Camp Crowder. In the parking lot were some National Guard members enjoying some down time. As the senior rifle bearer looked out the window toward the group of men, he said, They look tough, but we can beat em, thinking that the five young men were a competing color guard team. Everyone had a laugh and the mood of the group was lightened. The opening briefing was attended by the four
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We may not have made a clean sweep, but were sweeping it clean.

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In addition, the team is judged on their uniformity (pun intended) and on the appearance of their color guard equipment. Moments later, the same gym was the venue for the Standard Drill event. Standard Drill tests each teams proficiency in marching, turning, and passing in review as they would when called upon to participate in a parade. In Standard Drill, precision is key. The color guard marched shoulder to shoulder up to the judges, then perform a prescribed routine while carrying rifles and flags. The goal is to protect and proudly display the flag of the United States of America while marching in perfect unison. Panel Quizzing was held down the hall from the gym. The content for Quizzing is aerospace information from the aerospace modules and current aerospace events. Even though quizzing is a team effort and everyone on the Minnesota team contributed to their success, it was clear that this event was owned by Cadet Kessler, who upon being congratulated responded with a humble smile. After lunch, some teams began the Indoor Practical event as other teams completed their final Panel Quizzes. Indoor Practical might be the most well known of the color guard events. Teams are not allowed to preview the room, but must survey the space for a few minutes at the beginning of the event. Due to heavy rain, Outdoor Practical Drill was held indoors. Because of the absence of a flagpole, competition focused on the flag folding aspect of the event. The final event was the Written Examination. The content of the exam is from the leadership manual and many other CAP documents. Following the Examination, pizza was served for dinner, and a more relaxed, social atmosphere was encouraged. Following dinner the award ceremony was conducted. Once the family members had filled in nearly all the chairs in the back of the room, the awards were presented. Minnesota Wing took first place overall and in the Mile Run, the Panel Quiz, In-Ranks Inspections, and Standard Drill. The team took second place in Outdoor Practical, Written Examination, and Indoor Practical. Besides the team awards, C/MSgt. Jasmine Sands had chased down the female Fleetfoot Award, and was presented with the Outstanding Cadet Award. We spent the evening relaxing with other cadets from around the region. One of the benefits of the
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(L-R) C/Samuel Kessler, C/Jasmine Sands, C/Garan Williams, C/Mitch Hanson. Photo by Capt. Susan Blessman

Cadet Program is getting to meet and hang out with cadets from across the region. The Nebraska team got along nicely with the Minnesota team and soon everyone was playing Mafia and arm wrestling. On Sunday morning, departure was delayed by heavy thunder showers. Once the danger of lightening had subsided, the cadets packed the van and said farewell to Camp Crowder. The families of the color guard members had almost all arrived at the Crystal Airport, home of the North Hennepin Squadron, before the color guard pulled in singing We are the Champions on the public address system of the van. The cadets were greeted with cheers, and many stories were told about their adventures down in Missouri. I want to thank the competition staff for making this event a success. Many thanks to our escorts, Lt. JD Teter for driving for the entire trip, and Capt. Susan Blessman for showing up on such short notice with her wonderfully positive attitude. Thanks, also, to the parents of the color guard members for their support and willingness to bring cadets and snacks to color guard practice. Finally, I would like to thank my team for their outstanding hard work and dedication.
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Cadets prove they possess the during Minnesota Encampment

Major Richard J. Sprouse, Public Affairs Officer, 2010 Minnesota Encampment All photos courtesy of Major Richard Sprouse The bays are empty. The drill pad quiet. The blankets and linens turned in. The dining facility closed. The 200 Minnesota Encampment and 2th Cadet Training Group held July 0- at Camp Ripley is over. For a week,  basic cadets, 24 Staff Development Squadron cadets, 3 cadet staffers, and 30 Senior Members endured the heat, humidity and threat of severe weather normally associated with a Minnesota summer to enjoy the camaraderie, challenges, and fun related to encampment. It was all awesome. I wished it wouldnt have ended, said C/AC Austen Smith of St. Cloud

Pride in Passion

Cadets enjoying Camp Ripleys confidence course during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Encampment.

C/Capt. Lydia Stone (St. Cloud) provides some land navigation tips to C/Amn Jordan Kangwijaya (Valley) during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Encampment.

Cadets enjoy a Blackhawk ride during the 2010 Minnesota Wing Encampment.

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Squadron. His thoughts were echoed by many of those attending encampment, and for good reason: there was so much to do. C a m p Ripleys confidence course included 20 obstacles that relieved the pent up energy C/A1C Arden Heath (North Hennepin) of inprocess- at prayer during an ecumenical service ing and began during the 2010 Minnesota Wing b u i l d i n g t h e Encampment. teamwork so much a part of a successful encampment for cadets and Senior Members alike. Later, everyone made their way into the recesses of the 3,000 acre National Guard training facility to receive hands-on land navigation training. Teams using a compass utilized pace counts, point plotting, and map reading skills over various terrain to reach their objectives. The M4 and M16 rifle simulators provided a video game few will forget. And, no one will forget their ride on a Blackhawk courtesy of the 2-4th Assault Helicopter Battalion of the Minnesota Army National Guard. Two Blackhawks provided about a 20 minute ride with the sun setting, a view enhanced by the lush farm fields, rich forests, and numerous lakes and rivers found in central Minnesota. The response by the Blackhawk crews, many of whom had completed multiple deployments during the Global War on Terrorism, will also be long remembered. The Minnesota National Guard knows how hard CAP works in preparing for search and rescue missions, so having you flying with us has been our honor, said Sergeant Erik Hite, a crew chief assisting with the flights. He also added: Weve been working hard during annual training here, were tired, but seeing
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the look on the cadets faces after their Blackhawk ride made it all worth it. We look forward to flying with Civil Air Patrol again. As the cadets and staff prepared to leave Camp Ripley, C/Lt. Col. Billy Hoffman, 2th CTG commander reflected on the week long event. For many cadets being thrown into a huge lifestyle change like encampment can be a challenge, but its a good chance to develop time management, teamwork and problem solving skills. Skills that Hoffman hopes they will take to their home squadrons and apply. Pride in Passion was the official motto of the 2th CTG, an apropos description of the sprit with which the basic cadets progressed through encampment, said Captain Nash Pherson, 200 Minnesota Encampment commander. Each cadet proved repeatedly throughout the week that he or she possessed the pride and passion to take their places as leaders in their squadrons, in the Minnesota Wing, and the Civil Air Patrol. More information about the 200 Encampment including daily newsletters, photo albums, daily video updates and more can be found at the encampment website www.cadetleadership.org

C/Capt. David Johnson (Red Wing) leads his 24th Cadet Training Squadron during the pass in review at the 2010 Minnesota Wing Encampment.

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(L-R) C/SSgt. Mary Rogers and C/SrA Christopher Madsen, both of Northland Squadron in Bemidji, Minn., wait to inprocess during Minnesota Wings Encampment Preparatory School II.

(L-R) C/Amn James Goth of North Hennepin Squadron and Daniel Hall of Viking Squadron join other cadets for some drill activities during Minnesota Wings Encampment Preparatory School II.

Minnesota cadets prepare for encampment

Major Richard J. Sprouse, Public Affairs Officer, 2010 Encampment All photos courtesy of Major Richard Sprouse Clad in patrol caps, BDUs and combat boots one would think these young adults were at war. The sandy soil and scrub grass under their feet, the blue sky and white sun above, the thumping of helicopters overhead, the sounds and smells of diesel enginesone would think they were in Iraq or Afghanistan. But they are not. Arriving Friday, May 2, nearly 4 basic cadets of the Minnesota Wing of the Civil Air Patrol gathered at Camp Ripley for Encampment Preparatory School II (EPS II). Its sort of tune-up for the real deal: the Minnesota Wing encampment set for July 0- on the 3,000 acre National Guard training facility. An EPS in April drew about 2 basic cadets. The instruction provided by the cadet staff at each EPS will give the basic cadets a better understanding of what to expect and the confidence to excel when the actual encampment begins in July, said Captain Nash Pherson, 200 Encampment commander. In-processing brought a thorough inspection of gear, flight assignments and a brief lesson on the history and structure of CAP. It was all a prelude to PT, customs and courtesies, drill, inspections, proper wear and care of uniforms, and CAP career planning and opportunities that were to follow during the weekend. During graduation and goodbyes on Sunday, the basic cadets had time to reflect on their experience. I thought I wouldnt like it, but it was great, said C/SSgt. Mary Rogers of Northland Squadron. The staff was exceptional. There are lots of things I can take back to my squadron. Cadet Airman First Class Ryan Malcolm of St. Croix Squadron, EPS honor graduate, agreed. It was a great experience. I would recommend it to everyone. Cadet Airman First Class Anthony Bosch of Wesota Squadron said he learned a lot. It was fun, but challenging. It was very well
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C/SSgt. Justin Crow of Southeast Minnesota Squadron in Rochester prepares for inspection during Minnesota Wings Encampment Preparatory School II.

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Basic cadets await inspection during Minnesota Wings Encampment Preparatory School II.

(L-R) Captain Brian Freseman of Duluth Squadron, a senior cadre member, congratulates C/A1C Ryan Malcolm of St. Croix Squadron, honor graduate of Minnesota Wings Encampment Preparatory School II.

worth it. Cadet encampment commander, C/Lt. Col. Billy Hoffman said it was fun to see the cadets grow in confidence and ability.
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They come in wide-eyed and nervous, but by the end of the weekend theyre learning about standards and expectations, working as a team and making new friends. Thats what encampment is all about.
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Congratulations and thank you all!

Col. Thomas Theis Commander, Minnesota Wing

Thank you and congratulations to Capt. Nash Pherson and C/Lt. Col. Billy Hoffman and their staff for all the hard work that went into producing a successful encampment at Camp Ripley this past week. A special thanks to all the parent volunteers who served in the kitchen. Your dedication and service to our cadets is greatly appreciated and is a

testament to your support of your cadets and of the Civil Air Patrol program. The caliber of the senior (24) and cadet staff (3) was outstanding. Congratulations are also in order to all of the  basic and 24 SDS cadets who made this encampment possible. Without you, the staff wouldnt have had anything to do but yell at each other for the past week! ;Cant forget all those background folks who make all the leadership folks look good. You do your work without little recognition, such as the logistics, admin, medical, communications and kitchen staff to name but a few. The care and feeding of 8 or so members, for three meals a day for eight days or so was a monumental task. Seeing the large group of cadets parents, friends and relatives at graduation was absolutely phenomenal! Job well done everyone!!!

Photos stolen from the encampment website, which were taken by our award winning Major Sprouse

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