Iowa Wing News Online
Friday, November 25, 2005
Civil Air Patrol Iowa Wing Commander Col Ralph Tomlinson presented the 78th Cadet Squadron (East Iowa) with the 2005 ‘Squadron of Merit’ award at the Iowa Wing
Conference’s Annual Awards Banquet, held at the Iowa National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters in Johnston, Iowa on 19 November 2005.
The award recognizes the unit’s “meritorious cadet programs performance throughout the year 2004” based on squadron strength and growth rate, individual cadet achievements and other criteria. The ‘Squadron of Merit’ is awarded to only one cadet or composite squadron in each of the 52 Civil Air Patrol Wings.
The ‘Squadron of Merit’ award is in addition to an earlier designation from the North Central Region of Civil Air Patrol recognizing 78th Cadet Squadron as a‘Squadron of Distinction,’ a special yearly award recognizing one cadet or composite squadron in each of the eight Civil Air Patrol regions.
More than 140 members from Iowa Wing joined various dignitaries and their guests at the two-day conference, which featured seminars on recruiting and retention, cadet
leadership training, aircraft management, public image building, safety and professional development. Iowa’s own Brig Gen Rex Glasgow -- who resigned from his national post during November -- presided over the wing conference in his last offical act as CAP National Vice Commander. A color guard from the 78th Cadet Squadron, under the guidance of CMSgt Robert Chiafos, performed ceremonial duties and conducted seminars on drill and ceremony for other cadets at the event as part of the curriculum.
