The Civil Air Patrol (CAP)'s Georgia Wing's Gwinnett County Composite Squadron had the honor and privilege of once again working with the crew of the B-17 Aluminum Overcast during the first weekend in October.

Cadets and senior members alike showed up to assist with both fundraising for our squadron, assisting the event staff at the B-17 fly-in, as well as experience the amazing sight of a World War II bomber up close. The event was a complete success in all fields for all parties involved.

Cadets were tasked with managing the parking procedure for the B-17 fly-in. They had several limits on where vehicles could and could not park, so as to make sure that no other roads or complexes at the airport were blocked by the massive amount of people who came to view this spectacular aircraft. Cadets also dealt with some interesting personalities while maintaining this parking lot and were surprised that some of the attendees were even legally allowed to drive. They did, however, get the chance to meet several World War II, as well as Korean, Vietnam, and Iraq war veterans and learn from their experiences.

Overall, the cadets demonstrated fantastic leadership abilities, even under stressful circumstances and completed their task with the utmost effectiveness.

Cadets and senior members were both on hand to raise money for the squadron as well as Wreaths Across America, a charity which places wreaths on fallen soldiers' graves every holiday season.

The Gwinnett County Composite Squadron achieved a new squadron record at the event, receiving more than 15 pledged donations for wreaths in less than one hour; with a special thanks to Cadet Still, who was in charge of gathering donations for this cause.

Gwinnett also broke its previous fundraising total for the event, and managed to earn well over $1,000 for the squadron by selling hot dogs, hamburgers and donuts to hungry guests. Both of these fundraising activities were entirely successful and the donations will be put toward great use.

The event was most assuredly an amazing sight to see for all of those who attended. Constant camera flashes were seen throughout the weekend and many CAP cadets and seniors were caught touring the B-17 once they were done working for the day.

I personally had the honor of flying in the B-17 during an aerial tour of the plane. I must say, sitting in the nose and staring down the bomb sights of a World War II bomber is a once in a lifetime event that I shall never forget. The appearance of the Aluminum Overcast flying overhead was an unforgettable occasion for both those on the ground, and for me in the air.

At the end of the day, all of the Gwinnett County Composite Squadron’s goals were met. Cadets superbly managed the parking of vehicles despite obstacles and distractions. Gwinnett managed to attain a significant amount of funds for both their squadron and Wreaths Across America. Everyone involved also managed to see one of the most legendary aircraft of all time, the B-17. To me, Gwinnett could not have had a better weekend.