2025 Encampment Day 3
Encampment Day 3
Awards
Warrior Flight: Juliet
Honor Flight: November
Drill Flight: Mike
Honor Cadet: A1C Fisher McCleskey
Warrior Cadet: A1C Jason Lowery
Warrior Squadron: Squadron 3
Honor Squadron: Squadron 4
Staff Support NCO: CMSgt Ethan Bureau
Staff Support Officer: Lt.Col. Elizabeth Moulton
Line Support NCO: CMSgt Aubrey Railey
Line Support Officer: 1stLt. Rowan Porter
Finding Their Footing: Cadets Settle In and Step Up at Encampment
“The first step may be uncertain, but each one after begins to find its rhythm—until you're no longer just walking, you're leading.”
After the first full day of Civil Air Patrol encampment, cadets began adjusting to their new environment. Expectations around inspections and physical training became clearer, and students started to develop a routine. With nerves settling, discipline and determination began to take hold.
In India Flight, Squadron 3, Cadet Tech. Sgt. Gracen Lynch of the Effingham Cadet Squadron said he already sees growth in himself and his peers. Lynch serves as flight guidon, a position he learned on site.
“I didn’t know how to be one at first,” Lynch said. “But my flight staff helped me, and now I carry the guidon with pride.”
Throughout the week, cadets built teamwork and confidence. As flights bonded through shared challenges, focus shifted to excellence—each aiming to be the best cadet, the best flight and the best squadron.
Encampment became more than a training ground. With every drill, class and formation, cadets grew more capable and more connected. Morning routines turned into moments of motivation, and small victories gave way to larger transformations.
By midweek, uncertainty had given way to purpose. The experience was not just about learning skills—it was about becoming leaders.
Written by Cadet 2nd Lt Hannah Shiry
