The Yellowstone Regional Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol recently promoted two active cadet members from Powell. Cadet Master Sergeant Eli Swaney and his brother, Cadet Master Sergeant Jay Swaney, advanced to Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt), also named the Doolittle Achievement. This rank is named after Jimmy Doolittle, a pioneer in aeronautical engineering and a key player in the World War II air raid on Tokyo.

In addition to the promotion ribbons, both Swaneys were awarded two additional ribbons. The Red Service ribbon acknowledges two years of service in Civil Air Patrol, while the Community Service ribbon rewards the cadets for at least 60 hours of community service. In the case of the Swaneys, they actually performed close to 90 hours of volunteer service during their two-year tenure, being active in their church and with the American Legion in Powell.

The awards recognize excellence in all four areas of cadet life: leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character. Cadets are required to complete tests, be physically fit, and attend character development and leadership lessons, with the intent to develop future leaders with great character. In addition, cadets are exposed to aerospace education activities and perform community service activities. Cadets also abide by the four core values: integrity, volunteer service, excellence, and respect.

Meetings of the Yellowstone Regional Composite Squadron are held at the Powell Armory on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend meetings to check out the program. Cadets can join Civil Air Patrol between the ages of 12 and 17 and stay in the cadet program until age 21. Adults 18 and over can join as senior members.

More information about Civil Air Patrol can be found at www.gocivilairpatrol.com or www.wywg.cap.gov. Contact Lt. Col. BJ Carlson at 307-762-3536 for more information about the local squadron.