In a moment of recognition and reflection, Congressman Rich McCormick attended an awards ceremony for Cadet Col. Connor Kazemi in December, delivering a message that resonated deeply with Civil Air Patrol cadets and leaders alike. His words underscored the significance of discipline, leadership, and the impact of service beyond individual accomplishments.
Civil Air Patrol National Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. R. Jason Bailey recently attended a distinguished ceremony, where he underscored the values of dedication, endurance, and leadership that define the highest levels of CAP’s Cadet Program.
Connor Kazemi was always going to be a pilot. Since the age of three, he’s been entranced by airplanes, according to his mom. But the cadet colonel can pinpoint the exact moment he realized he wanted to fly for the military.
Michael Sanchez knew he was going to serve his country. As a Civil Air Patrol cadet in Decatur, Georgia in 1998, Sanchez wanted to join the Army to “kick in doors.” But the Ira Eaker Award recipient didn’t realize at the time that his military career would eventually come full circle from his time in CAP.
Col.-select Michael Willis has been named the next Commander of Civil Air Patrol’s Georgia Wing, after serving in diverse CAP leadership roles for a combined total of 30 years. A United States Air Force veteran, Willis has also enjoyed a highly successful career as a technology manager for a major insurance company.
