Three Units Initiate Ambitious O-Flight Event

"Charlie Papa" delivers Cadets back
home to Kleberg Co. Airport

South Texas- Personnel from three South Texas Civil Air Patrols Squadron  succeeded in bring to fruition a very ambitious O-Flight event on 2 July 2012.  Major Jerry Lunceford and Capt Mike Ward, of the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron, served as O-Pilots running cadets from extreme geographical points in South Texas through O-Flights.   This comes as the result of on going efforts to provide initial O-Flights to the cadets of Group VII.

"We have always had some natural  issues flying cadets," said Major Carrales, "the logistical and geographic challenges of having such a large Group are formidable, it is no wonder we are trying to accomplish things in unique ways."

Group VII/Texas Wing (which extends from Victoria south to Brownsville...the Hill Country to the Rio Grande Valley) is larger and some whole Civil Air Patrol Wings, the State level in Civil Air Patrol.

The plan was to fly 2 cadets from the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron of Kingsville, Cadets Airman Joseph Guerra and Derrick Herrera, at 8 am on 2 July 2012.  This went well and the cadets were flown to Beeville and the to Three Rivers where they were oriented with the controls and instruments of the aircraft. Parents were on hand to see them off and greet them upon their return.  Their pilot was Major Jerry Lunceford, the squadron commander of the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron.

Cadets D. Herrera and J. Guerra just after their O-Flight

 These cadets are "FIRST TIME NEWBIES" who were on their first O-Flight.

"We have to fly out first time cadets as soon a possible," said Lt Col Sean Crandall commander of Group VII, "it shows advancement in the program."

Once these cadets completed their O-flight out of Kleberg Co. Airport, Capt Ward conducted a special O-Flight for C/TSgt Sarah Del Valle.  Cadet Del Valle represents another type of cadet of priority to the O-Flight process.  Cadet Del Valle is 17 and running up against the O-Flight cut off.  Cadets over 18 forfeit their remaining O-Flights.

Cadet Sarah Del Valle prepares for her flight.

Cadet Del Valle's O-Flight had a second objective.   That objective was to fly the aircraft down to Brownsville where she waited as 2 cadets from the Brownsville Composite Squadron get their flights.  In addition to that, she planned her flight based on her training.  Cadet Del Valle is in the process of getting a pilot's license outside of her CAP Cadet service and has already soloed in an aircraft.


Lt Col Juan Arredondo, commander of the Brownsville Composite Squadron, then took over where two of his cadets took to the skies for their first O-Flight.

Cadet Del Valle, then returned the the aircraft to Kleberg County via a second O-Flight and the day saw 5 cadets receive their flight.  All in all, a good day and an exercise in inter-squadron planning.

Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron Helps CUB SCOUTS

Annaville, Texas-

The Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron assisted Troop 18, out of Annaville, Texas with the CUB SCOUT DAY CAMP held on 7, 8 & 9 June 2012. Major Joe Ely Carrales and C/TSgt Sarah Del Valle provided direct assistance to Scout Master Terry Bru and the other members of his Troop.

30 Cub Scout campers attended the Cub Scout Day Camp held between. The day campers were from various Cub Scout Dens ranging from Sinton, Kingsville, and around the Greater Corpus Christi Area.

The Cub Scouts were able to participate in various activities including archery, orienteering/scavenger hunt, various games, traditional camp songs and an obstacle course.

A main feature of the camp was a large fort constructed by local scouts as well as a pneumatic canon which was used to teach the importance of following directions and maintaining proper safety processes in daily life. Additionally, the concepts of team work and tradition were stressed by conducting various team building games.

The Camp Director for the activity was Terry Bru, Scout Master of BSA Troop 18, and the Camp Program Director was Joe Garcia, who is the Cub Master of Pack 144.


The South Texas Council of the Boy Scouts of America serves more than 5,500 youth in 18 counties. The mission of the South Texas Council is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. 

Cub Scouts had a great time working and playing from 8 am to 3 pm.

All in all, cub scouts from the Corpus Christi area, up to and including some from Sinton, Texas, had an excellent outing participating in events ranging from games like badminton and table tennis to outdoor activities like an obstacle course and orienteering.

C/TSgt S. Del Valle demonstrates to the cub scouts how the pneumatic canon is fired.  Aside from showing the process, she also described the history of such weaponry and how it is ceremonially kept as a  tradition. 

A fort, built and designed by Scout Master Terry Bru. 

C/TSgt Del Valle successfully fires the artillery piece.

Meeting THURSDAY MAY 31st 2012

Kingsville, Texas-  A meeting of the Civil Air Patrol's Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron was held on 31 May 2012.  The meeting began with a review of HOT WEATHER safety including how to identify signs of heat exhaustion and what exactly a "sun stroke" is.  Also, how to counter the effects of dehydration.

In the course the material on HOT WEATHER SAFETY, it was mentioned that if the unit was going to do activities out at the "treeline" of Memorial Middle School in potentially high heat steps should be taken to mitigate the weather and its effects on unit personnel.

Aside from observation of "situation monitoring" of one's self and others and period hydration, it was agreed that...should a cadet become "disorientated" the other personnel should have experience in undergoing a "litter carry."

Since the unit does not have stretchers and the like available, a quick brainstorming session was led by Major Carrales to see what could be used to improvise. It was decided that the "tarp" and a couple of it's home cut poles, known affectionately as "shillelaghs," would best suit the purpose.

Cadets Del Valle and Major Carrales adjust the "shillelaghs" and tarp to see if they can hold a person in  a "make shift" litter carry,

Being a man of "command responsibility" Major Carrales volunteered to be the first to try the stretcher.

C/TSgt Robert Alcantara was the second "contestant" of the day.

The assembled cadets then practiced drilling for Parade Marching in light of potential 4th of July activities.  The focused on a, review of Column and Line formations and how to form the flight, how to teach drill to new recruits and how to improve the concepts ofspacing, pace and guiding in a parade setting.

Additionally, Lt Bru went over the needed materials for CAP Unit support of the cub scout day camp.

Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron Practice Missions- May 2012

Kingsville, Texas—There is an old notion in military units that goes something like this… “TRAIN LIKE YOU FIGHT!” There is also an old tenet of the business world that says that “HAND’S ON TRAINING IS THE BEST TRAINING.” There is wisdom in both of these approaches. In light of that wisdom, the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron is taking its Emergency Services Training very seriously.

“I want cadets in this unit to know a great deal about how CAP missions work before they ever set foot at a SARex or REDCAP,” said Major Joe Ely Carrales, unit commander.

Major Carrales and the unit’s cadet command structure have taken the step of structuring the meetings and training in the 2nd quarter to teach and train cadets in the Incident Command System (ICS) by teaching them to “live it.”

“We can teach this via ‘PowePoint,’” continued Major Carrales, “Or we can teach it by DOING IT.”

Major Carrales went on to say that ICS can be overwhelming for cadets, so it is important to teach it in small digestible sizes adding more complexity as skills are learned.

“Rather than just teaching BCUT in isolation as a we can run COMM exercises based on how a CAP MISSION WORKS” elaborating Major Carrales, “We introduce those small lessons (like mission numbers, CAP FORMS and Incident Command Structure) that can be confusing if done online alone along with Radio Procedures and Protocols.”

Because of this there were several “LOCAL” MISSION NUMBERS issued at the squadron designed as practice. These are designated by the “YEAR” followed by the designator “MMS” to show “MEMORIAL MIDDLE SCHOOL” and a digit to follow showing the order of the mission.

Here are the ones so far…

12-MMS-0001/ 17 May 2012: This was the first part of a two part mission designed to begin the training in CAP COMM and the INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM. This mission was provided as a test of communications equipment. The unit practiced RADIO CALL PROCEDURES with locally provided hand held radios acquired from local discount stores. The objective was threefold; 1)Become familiar with the idea of a MISSION NUMBER 2)Practice recently learned materials on CALL SIGNS, PRO-WORDS and radio telephony, and 3) test the effective range of the RADIOs. All objectives were met.

12-MMS-0002: 17 May 2012: This was the second part which included dividing up into several “ground teams” which would expand on the lessons learned on the prior mission. Additionally, it would introduce CAPF 110 Air to Ground Log, with more organized Mission Radio apparatus would be set up. The unit was divided into 5 de facto ground teams and on COMM station representing “Mission Base.” The objective was more expanded… 1) Introduce the whole of the unit to COMM procedures (including CALL SIGNS, PRO-WORDS and radio telephony), 2) continue a testing of the radios on into the local neighborhoods, 3) “stress” the communications apparatus and demonstrate situations where a “radio net” would be used (the concept of a radio net is introduced, but only as a concept), 3) effectively fill out a CAPF 110 while mission was in progress.

12-MMS-0003: 22 May 2012: This included many of the objectives from the two prior activities, however, the CAPF 109 was introduced with only two teams. Mission Radio duties at “Mission Base” were done as a detail of three assisting with the CAPF 110. The difference in this activity was the inclusion of orienteering stills, including the use of a COMPASS. Additionally, the concepts of briefing and de-briefing was introduced and implemented on a small scale. The objective was more inclusive of the ICS system, 1) Use a Lensatic Compass to acquire 4 targets (small postal sting tags) located at obscure locations throughout the MMS campus by finding clues and using compass headings and pacing to find tags, 2) Deploy MISSION RADIO procedures to support the activity, 3) introduce the idea of a “status board” and “sorties,” 3) hold a briefing and debriefing in accordance with CAPF 109, and 4) produce a report as per CAPF 109 that outlines mission activities that is clear and easy to read.

As an amended activity…a “call tree” for a “phone alert” was begun that will be sent out to all cadets for future use in the spreading on information.

2012 SUMMER SCHEDULE

SUMMER SCHEDULE 21 MAY 2012

This will be the summer schedule for the COASTAL BEND CADET SQUADRON of the CIVIL AIR PATROL. As a basic rule, the meetings will be held at CAP STATION KINGSVILLE behind Memorial Middle School from 1500L hrs (3:00 PM) to 1730L hrs (5:30 PM). There will be additional field trips to CORPUS CHRISTI, VICTORIA or BROWNSVILLE which will generally be on Tuesdays (to coincide with those units’s evening meeting) These will be announced via a permission slip and on line at…

http://corpuschristicap.blogspot.com/

Squadron News, Meeting Minutes and other announcements will also be made at that BLOG. Meeting dates are listed below and will be assigned a meeting “mission” in the above blog.

31 May 2012- PARADE MARCHING/ DRILL TESTING/ Prep for BCUT.

7 JUNE 2012- COMMUNICATIONS DRILL and BCUT (OPS)

Cub Scout DAY CAMP at Troop 18 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

14 JUNE 2012- DRILL/ LEADERSHIP EXERCISE (LEADERSHIP)

21 JUNE 2012- SPORTS ACTIVITY to be ANNOUNCED (PT TEST)

28 JUNE 2012- FIELD ACTIVITY

Sat 30 June-07 July Summer Encampment


5 JULY 2012- ROCKET DAY (MAJOR CARRALES' BIRTHDAY)

12 JULY 2012- HIGH ADVENTURE (TBA)

19 JULY 2012- COMMUNICATIONS DRILL/ ES WORKSHOP(OPS)

26 JULY 2012-DRILL/ LEADERSHIP EXERCISE (LEADERSHIP)


2 AUG 2012- COMMUNICATIONS DRILL/ ES WORKSHOP

9 AUG 2012- SPORTS ACTIVITY to be ANNOUNCED (PT TEST)

16 AUG 2012-TRAINING for Cadet NCOs to prepare for NEW RECRUITS

23 AUG 2012- TBA
CAP is NOT a Kingsville ISD school project and there are lots of activities for the summer. Cadets can continue to advance in rank/grade.


Jose E. Carrales, Maj, CAP DISTRIBUTION:

Commander

Memorial Middle School Olympic Results

MEMORIAL MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWSFEED-This school year at Memorial Middle School several new clubs were chartered to provide students with opportunities to enhance their learning. 

The sponsors of these groups gathered to try a new idea in fellowship, a Memorial Middle School Organizational Olympics.  The idea was a first and represented the hard work of Community In Schools (CIS) worker Ms Michelle Macias.  The idea was presented to the MMS Student Council, CIS, CIS Baseball, the Spanish Club and Major Carrales of the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron who took to making it a success.

CAP Pavilion at MMS Organizational Olympic Village

Memorial Middle School Olympic Results

May 17, 2012

3 LEGGED RACE:
1st: CIS BASEBALL
2nd: CAP
3rd: MMS STUDENT COUNCIL

OBSTICAL COURSE:
1st: CIS
2nd: CIS BASEBALL
3rd: CAP

WATER BALLON TOSS:
1st: CIS BASEBALL
2nd: SPANISH CLUB
3rd: CIS

TUG OF WAR
1st: SPANISH CLUB
2nd: CIS
3rd: CAP

MMS Olympic Participants prepare for the Obstacle Course set up in the Gym

MMS Spanish Club, Communities in School, CIS Baseball, Student Council and the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron prepare for the obstacle course.

Everyone had a great time and everyone is looking forward to doing it again next year.  CAP came out 4th over all, but we have a year to prepare.

Beach to Bay 2012- Joint Activity Between the Corpus Christi Comp Squadron and the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron

Corpus Christi, Texas- The Corpus Christi Comp Squadron and the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron supported the 2012 Beach to Bay relay on 19 May 2012.  The day's activities included 1) providing passive security to the awards area to discourage or report would be thieves, 2) assist the runners at the finish line by removing tracking tabs and helping distressed runners to the medical area and3) provide other assistance as needed to activity officials and spectators.

4 cadets from the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron were selected to attend the activity and met at Memorial Middle School in Kingsville, Texas at 0645L to be in place on time.

Coastal Bend Cadets selected for the trip  were C/MSgt Juan M. Cardec, C/TSgt Sarah Del Valle, CAP,  C/TSgt Bobby Alcantara, CAP and C/SrA Phillip Barrett, CAP.  These cadets were selected by their CAP grade and Cadet Barrett was selected since he was the first cadet from the 2011-2012 "wave" of cadets to promote to airman.

CAP Cadets from the Corpus Christi Comp. Squadron and the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron assist at the Finish Line at Beach to Bay.  Cadets provide water, assistance to the medical tent and pass out team award medals to those finishing the race.

The First runner crosses the finish line at Beach to Bay.

2d Lt K. Ryder provides support to cadets that are "holding the line" cadets provide passive security. 

Cadets Cardec and Barrett assist with awards at the Closing Presentation.

MAY 2012- Memorial Middle School Cadet Promoted

By Major Joe Ely Carrales, CAP

Memorial Middle School— C/MSgt Juan M. Cardec, C/Tsgt Robert Alcantara, C/A1C Irizarry and C/Amn Christian S. Hock from the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron were promoted to their rank in the Civil Air Patrol during May 2012. 

                Cadet Juan M. Cardec has been the squadron’s Cadet First Sergeant since last February and has intensified his Emergency Services.  Unfortunately for the Coastal Bend Cadet squadron, Cadet Cardec will be moving to McAllen, Texas where he is expected to continue his training with the Wild Horse Desert Comp Squadron which is garrisoned in McAllen.

Cadets Alcantara, Irizarry, Cardec and Hock at the MMS Organizational Olympics after fresh promotions.

                Cadet Robert Alcantara has also been focusing on his Emergency Services training as well as assisting in squadron happenings as a an element leader and acting flight sergeant.  Cadet Alcantara began his CAP cadet career in the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron as was one of the founding members of the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron.

                Cadet Micaela Irizarry has served as a flight adjutant in her flight and helped to organize the squadron’s files.  Cadet Christian Hock has been commended by his orientation pilot as a solid aviator and has a bright future in the squadron.
               
                “I am glad the cadets are advancing in their studies and CAP cadet careers,” said Major Joe Ely Carrales, squadron Commander, “I look forward to working with them over the summer.”

                The Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron will meet at Memorial Middle School on most Thursdays during the summer from 3:00 to 5:30 pm.  Parents or youth 12 to 18 interested in joining the Civil Air Patrol cadet program can e-mail Major J.E. Carrales at jecarrales@yahoo.com or call/text at 361-779-4739.  

C/MSgt Juan M. Cardec, C/A1C Micaela Irrizary and C/Amn Christain Hock after freshly getting promoted.

Squadron Spirit with a Bang!

Kingsville, Texas- The Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron was surprised to discover that they had a new "toy" to  use.  In all actuality, it is a bit of a serious object.

In an effort at increase School and Squadron Spirit, 2d Lt Terry Bru, brought by a replica canon from the mid-19th Century.  It is a pneumatic canon, air fired, and it shoots out a flour charge.

"We hope to increase school and squadron spirit," said Major J.E. Carrales, "by firing the canon when the football team scores a touch down at MMS games next year."

Major Carrales went to say that is required training and extreme amounts of safety procedures.

Cadets from the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron pose with the canon.

The Canon in the field.

Corpus Christi Composite Squadron Takes 1st Place at Buc Days Parade

Corpus Christi, Texas- One of the most visible activities in South Texas is the annual Buc Days Parade that takes place in Corpus Christi, Texas.  The parade runs through downtown Corpus Christi and has an incredible amount of floats as organizations from across South Texas join to let the world know they support the idea of a Greater South Texas.

Buccaneer Days is done in conjunction with a carnival, a rodeo and, of course, the Illuminated Light Parade.

Cadets and Seniors from the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron participated in the Illuminated Light Parade on 5 May 2012.

The Corpus Christi Comp Squadron Cadet parade element marshals in the staging Area before the parade.

The Squadron during the parade.

The Corpus Christi Composite Squadron made a good showing and even placed 1st in the Marching Units category.  Good JOB TX-026.

Training Continues at Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron

Kingsville, Texas- As the school year comes to a close, the activities at the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron began the process of intensifying.

"It is a common misconception," said Major J. E. Carrales, "that just because our squadron is associated with the Memorial Middle School campus that we end all operations when the school ends.   This is ridiculous...in fact, in summer more things are possible."

Cadet S. Del Valle instructs cadets in the Manual of Arms for Summer Parades and Next School Year's ceremonies.

Cadets take a moment to sand the new drill rifles they are making "in house"

Cadets assemble shelter halves for future use in CAP ES activities.

Cadets have several projects in the works including continuing ES training (including CAMP OUTS), making their own drill rifles and preparing for summer activities.

FIRST QUARTER PROMOTIONS AT COASTAL BEND CADET SQUADRON

The following promotions are hereby announced as of 4 MAY 2012. 
Achievement Rank Approved By Major J. E. Carrales, CAP  Date Approved  4 MAY 2012


Wing: TX  Unit: 454

Phillip A Barrett  was awarded the Mary Feik award and promoted to the rank of C/SrA on 23 Apr 2012

George E Cavazos was awarded the Mary Feik award and promoted to the rank of C/SrA on 24 Apr 2012

Tybie A Davis was awarded the Gen Hap Arnold and promoted to the rank of   C/A1C on 26 Apr 2012. Additionally, Cadet Davis the the March 2012 CADET of the MONTH

Sarah D Del Valle was awarded the Capt Eddie Rickenbacker and promoted to the rank of C/TSgt on 23 Apr 2012.

Derrick Herrera was awarded the  Gen J F Curry and promoted to the rank of C/Amn 23 Apr 2012.

Christian S Hock was awarded the Gen J F Curry and promoted to the rank of C/Amn on 02 May 2012.  He will be promoted in Ceremony at a future time.

Micaela Irizarry was awarded the Gen Hap Arnold and promoted to the rank of C/A1C on 03 May 2012.  She will be promoted in Ceremony at a future time.

Luis A Martinez was awarded the Gen J F Curry promoted to the rank of C/Amn on 04 May 2012.  He will be promoted in Ceremony at a future time.

Henry I Martinez was awarded the Gen J F Curry promoted to the rank of C/Amn on 23 Apr 2012.

Joe A Mata was awarded the Gen J F Curry promoted to the rank of C/Amn on 23 Apr 2012.

Justin E Shelton was awarded the Gen Hap Arnold and promoted to the rank of C/A1C on 26 April 2012. 

First Quarter Squadron APRIL 2012 Promotions

WING OVER SOUTH TEXAS AIR SHOW

KINGSVILLE, TEXAS-  The WING OVER SOUTH TEXAS AIR SHOW was held the weekend of April 13, 14 and 15th, 2012.  Festivities began with an Air Show pep-rally.  15 Cadets were selected to attend the WINGS OVER SOUTH TEXAS AIR SHOW PEP-RALLY during school on 13 April 2012 at Javelina Stadium on the campus of Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

C/TSgt Juan M Cardec and C/SSgt Sarah Del Valle served as Flight Sergeants for the activity.  Other cadets in attendance were   C/SrA Jon Stillwagon, C/A1C Wolfe, C/A1C P. Barrett , C/A1C G. Cavazos, C/Amn S. Mitchell,  C/Amn J. Shelton, C/AB E.Perez,  C/AB S. Saenz, C/AB H. Martinez,   C/AB C. Hock, C/AB C. Freeman, C/AB D. Herrera and C/AB Joseph Guerra.


Cadets left Memorial Middle School at 0900L hrs arriving at Javelina Stadium within minutes.  They were seated on the home team side.   There they participated in a few videos, listened to some experiences by the Navy Blue Angels Demonstration Team and witnessed flybys by vintage and military aircraft.

Cadets, MMS Cheerleaders and MMS Student Council Burgesses await the start of the Pep-Rally

A pyrotechnic OUTHOUSE???

A B-25 Mitchell makes a Fly By of the Javelina Stadium...this one was one of type used in the famous Doolittle Raid after the Japanese Attack on Hawaii in 1941.

An ensemble of the TAMUK Javelina Band played the National Anthem 

Aircraft continued to fly despite the high winds that cancelled the Parachute Demonstrations.

And away they go!

A US Coast Guard asset made a spectacular over flight!

Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron Cadets stand station at Javelina Stadium

The Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron's delegation

O-FLIGHT FOR NEXT WEEK WILL BE POSTPONED

ROBSTOWN, TEXAS- O-FLIGHT FOR NEXT WEEK WILL BE POSTPONED DUE TO MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS ON "CHARLIE PAPA,"  FLIGHTS WILL RESUME WHEN THE AIRCRAFT IS FINISHED WITH ITS REPAIR CYCLE IS COMPLETE.

O-Flights POSTPONED FOR REPAIRS: 
The flying roster will be postponed until the Aircraft goes in for Maintenance. The roster will continue as followed after that process ends...

SORTIE 1:
C/AB D. Herrera
C/A1C T. Wolfe

SORTIE 2:
C/AB A. Sanchez-Farias
C/AB J. Mata

SORTIE 3:
TBA

MEETING AGENDA- 12 APRIL 2012

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS/UPCOMING ACTIVITIES

Wings Over Texas Air Show- Cadets are needed to work the airshow on Sunday from 1 to 4 pm.  You would be attached to the Corpus Christi Comp Squadron who is working the activity.

Lt Bru is requesting information on another CAMP OUT
We should try to take 10 cadets, a date will have to be set and cadets who are to go must make a solid committment. There will be some extra meetings prior for training that are mandatory. DETAILS TO FOLLOW. Training on skill for CAMP OUTS IN PROGRESS.

Buc Days Parade (Major Carrales cannot attend...this complicates this activity)
5 May 2012 at 7:00 PM- 2nd Lt Rose Osborne of the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron is handling the logistics. We plan to take 11 or so cadets who can make it to march in the parade. Practice will begin immediately. Focus will be on 1) clarity of marching, 2) spacing issues and 3) clear command calls. This is a JOINT ACTIVITY with the CORPUS CHRISTI COMPOSITE SQUADRON.  Cadets from Kingsville may report to the Parade Marshalling Area if they can get a ride there.  More information on this later.

Beach-to-Bay 2012 IN FULL SWING
Major Carrales MAY 19, 2012spoke to Major Lunceford about this activity. It involves passive security and a color guard for the activity and is a JOINT ACTIVITY with the CORPUS CHRISTI COMPOSITE SQUADRON. Special training will be needed and experienced cadets will be called upon to share their experience with newbies.  Classroom training began on 3 April and field Training begins on 12 April 2012 with cadets pulling duty.

Memorial Middle School Organizational Olympics
17 May 2012- 4 to 6:30.  The squadron is asked to put together a team to participate in the first ever ORGANIZATIONAL OLYMPICS.  Events will be announced by CIS in the upcomingf weeks.  This will be like a field day during the regular meeting day.


GOALS for UNIT
Assign new FLIGHTS- ACCOMPLISHED. Cadet Flight Sgt were assigned; C/TSgt Juan Cardec was installed for ALPHA FLIGHT and C/SSgt Sarah Del Valle was installed for BRAVO FLIGHT

ORGANIZE PAPERWORK for EACH FLIGHT- IN PROGRESS, FLIGHT ADJUTANTS WORKING ON THIS. Cadets Davis and Irizarry are currently updating all files and creating sign in logs for their flights.

TRAIN a COLOR GUARD ABLE TO DEPLOY at a MOMENT's NOTICE- IN PROGRESS. Cadets Cardec, Alcantara, Barrett and Mata form the core of the Color Guard. Two alternate, 7th Grade or below are required and selected cadets will train with the Color Guard as needed.

Camping DETAILS MEMBERS must train and qualify in GENERAL EMERGENCY SERVICES. NO ACTION YET TAKEN.

Expand CAMPING DETAIL from 5 to 10 cadets and DEPLOY at least once. NO ACTION YET TAKEN.

Monthly Focus

APRIL 2012
Insure all CADET BASICS move up one level to their next achievement PRIORITY!!

INCREASE WRIGHT BROS CADETS by 1. IN PROGRESS, Cadet Stillwagon is challenging the TESTComplete OPSEC, EO and Ground Handling Training (for all Flights) NO ACTION YET TAKEN.

Maintain Safety Currency at 80% levels . IN PROGRESS, cadet Safety levels are nominal.

Complete BDUs and everyone having placed or revieved blues, IN PROGRESS, COLOR GUARD UNIFORMS BECOME PRIORITY.Begin Emergency Services Training for all CADETS (MUST TAKE PLACE) Uniforms to be ordered.

Begin Communications Training for all CADETS (MUST TAKE PLACE) NO ACTION YET TAKEN.


MEETING ACTIVITIES:

The meeting shall commence at 1605L hrs at Major Carrales' classroom in EAST 101

OPENING CEREMONY- Pledge of Allegiance, Cadet Oath and Moment of Silence

11 April 2012 O-FLIGHTS

Kleberg Co. Airport-  Cadets S. Mitchell and C. Freeman flew on 11 April 2012 from Kleberg Co. Airport.   Their destination was T.P. McCampbell airport near Ingleside, Texas where Cadet Freeman swiched out with Cadet Mitchell.  They were the 8th and 9th Cadet to fly their first (Type 6) O-Flight this cycle.  Their Orientation Pilot will Major Jerry Lunceford, commander of the Corpus Christi Composite squadron.

Morning weather conditions sported 0 mile visibility, however, the forcast called for it to disapate by Noon....and it did.

Sadly this will be the last set of O-Flights for some two to three weeks due to aircraft maintenance.

MEETING AGENDA- 10 APRIL 2012

The meeting shall commence at 1605L hrs at Major Carrales' classroom in EAST 101

OPENING CEREMONY- Pledge of Allegiance, Cadet Oath and Moment of Silence

MEETINGS ACTIVITIES

1) ANNOUNCEMENTS- GET INFORMATION ON WHO'S ATTENTING THE PEP-RALLY

2) O-FLIGHT DEBRIEFINGS:  Review of AIRCRAFT PARTS, CONTROLS and INSTRUMENTS

3) PAPER AIRCRAFT PROJECT and RACE

Cadet T. Wolfe prepares to throw the proto-type "Condor" model aircraft.  Cadets built one first out of regular weight paper to examine its constructions and experiment with the "control surfaces."  They then built a "hero model" out of cardstock for racing.

After the cadets reviewed some AEROSPACE EDUCATION (focusing on Module 1 from their work) they consturcted paper aircraft.  This was followed by a race using a one made of "sterner stuff."
C/SrA J. Stillwagon's aircraft won the race beating one built by C/A1C George Cavazos.  Once the race concluded, Cadet Stillwagon's aircraft had to run a "guantlet" as the losing aircraft attempted to "shoot it down."

AFTER SCHOOL O-FLIGHTS- 9 April 2012

KLEBERG CO. AIRPORT- Cadets Justin Shelton and Christian S. Hock flew their TYPE 6 O-Flight after school on 9 April 2012.  They were flow by Capt Mike Ward of the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron out of Kleberg Co. Airport.  Their flight consisted of flying over South Texas becoming familiar with the controls and instruments.   Cadet Hock flew "front seat" first with Cadet Shelton using his backseat time for study and observation.

Major Carrales had to rush into town, Kingsville, Texas, during the flights to attend a meeting and induction of the Junior National Honor Society of Memorial Middle School held at the Texas A&M University Student Union Building.  C/SSgt Juan Cardec was inducted into the JNHS.

Cadets Shelton and Hock examine one of the ailerons of "Charlie Papa"

Hock and Shelton taking off from Kleberg Co. Airport

Hock and Shelton pose for a "Glamour Shot:

O-FLIGHT 11 April 2012

Scheduled for 11 April 2012

C/AB C. Freeman
C/Amn S. Mitchell

Cadets Freeman and Mitchell just prior to flying

Freeman and Mitchell examine the airfoil from a distance.

Freeman and Mitchell Airborne.

MEETING REPORT- 5 APRIL 2012

THOUGHT of the DAY
"When people start to tear you down...and start to really made rags of the things you are doing always remember what Theodore Roosevelt said about the MAN in the ARENA.  It doesn't matter what 'haters' say about your works...what does matter is that you are in the "arena."  You are making the difference and they are just talking.  Remember that when  people try to make you feel bad about things you love."   -MAJOR JOE ELY CARRALES

MEETINGS ACTIVITIES

Cadets will reported to the CAP Building for a refresher on KNOTS.   In main focus was the 1) square knot, 2) sheetbend, 3) slip knot, 4) Clove hitch and 5) (for Bravo FLIGHT this week, the BOW LINE)  Most cadets were able to improve their knots and used them on their FLIGHT FIELD ACTIVITIES during break-out sessions.

The Flights will go into to breakout activities...

ALPHA FLIGHT:

Alpha Flight practiced setting up a tarp with table.  They accomplished this task within the required time.   Next week they will attempt to set up a much larger (3 times) tarp which will be used on CAMP activities.

Alpha Flight greatly improved their time this week in assembling the TARP, next week it is hoped that they can assemble the larger "Dining Fly" used on CAP Camp Outs.

BRAVO FLIGHT:

Bravo Flight continued their practice setting up the tower, this time adding additional sections to make it equal 22 ft.  This occasion several issues were discovered and a few new procedures were created.  The flight was given 15 additional minutes to comlete their tasking. 

In keeping with PROCEDURES designed to promote SAFETY, Bravo Flight Cadets pre-assemble the tower and prepare to raise it.  This is as much a team building exercise as a potential COMM exercise. 

The assembled 22 Ft tower. 

Additionally, the Unit was visited by GROUP VII CAC Chaiman C/SMSgt A. Ryder.  The Squadron lent the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron two drill rifles and harnesses for use in the upcoming Buc Day's Parade.  The items will be on extended loan until said unit can prepare assemble it's own matierals.

Both flights must take into account the following issues...
Command: Who is in charge?  Before the activity begins one leader must be in command.  Multiple leaders may create unnecessary confusion.


Personnel: Who is to do what?  When people are "just standing around," Not only does it look unprofessional, but it can lead to accidents.  Also, when people do not know what they are supposed to be doing it wastes time and resources.  Those people, when tasked, serve to make a LARGE JOB into a small one.

Planning: What do we need to do?  Run through what you plan to do as a unit.  Let people "ask their questions" before there are problems.  It is better to asked questions before the activity, than to be in the middle of it

ORM: How can we do what we need to accomplish safely?  Find out the things that can hurt you or damage property

Logistics: What things do we need to have to make this work?  What must to take with you to make the activity work correctly.

MEETING AGENDA- 3 APRIL 2012

THOUGHT of the WEEK"My grandfather and father gave a two pieces of advice that ring true in a lot of places today.  As musicians they advised me 1) 'A GOOD MUSICAL GROUP IS ONLY AS GOOD as IT'S WEAKEST PLAYER' and 2) a 'GOOD MUSICIAN is ONLY AS GOOD AS HIS LAST GIG.'  Nowhere does these WORDS echo more clearly than when we look a a CAP unit's effictiveness."   -Major J. E. Carrales, 2012.


ITEM I: Continue to IMPROVE DRILL AND CEREMONY.

ITEM II: AEROSPACE MODULE 2 and O-FLIGHTS  and review of SECTIONAL CHARTS

ITEM III: 

ALL "NO STRIPERS"  AIRMAN BASIC CLASS PROMOTING TO CADET AIRMAN

ALL OTHERS: COMMUNICATION CLASS: BASIC RADION, THEPHONETIC ALPHABET and PROWORDS.

COASTAL BEND CADET SQUADRON CADETS PRESENT COLORS AT THE CORPUS CHRISTI HOOKS/HOUSTON ASTROS EXHIBITION GAME

Corpus Christi, Texas- Cadets from the COASTAL BEND CADET SQUADRON were invited to present the colors at the CORPUS CHRISTI HOOKS/HOUSTON ASTROS EXHIBITION GAME on 2 APRIL 2012 at WHAT-A-BURGER FIELD.  Cadets Juan M. Cardec, Robert Alcantara, Philip Barrett and Joe Mata were selected to be the main Colors element.

They met for a brief practice during 8th Period on Monday and traved to Corpus Christi, Texas via Major J. E. Carrales' PT Cruiser arriving at 1730L hrs at What-a-Burger Field at the Port of Corpus Christi.
The Colors and Major Carrales met at the general business office where they waited in the Hooks Conference room.
The Uniform of the Day was BDUs with Color Guard Accouterments (White pistol harnesses, honor cords and white pistol belts). BDUs were used because not all elements of the blues were available to all cadets available.  As of this date, all due focus will be in uniforming the Colors Element with full blues.

Major Carrales and the Cadets arrived at Corpus Chisti, Texas with much time to spare, which was a blessing because of Traffic.

The Cadet Color Guard prepares...Cadets from LEFT to RIGHT are C/AB Joe Mata, C/TSgt Juan Cardec, C/SSgt Robert Alcantara and C/A1C Philip Barrett.

The Colors Element take a moment "in the tunnel" to size up the scope of the assigment.  From this point (unseen) is an alcove leading to the field between the Pitcher's Mound and 2nd Base.

The Cadets exited the field after a singer delivered the NATIONAL ANTHEM, the job was excellently done!