Submitted photo. Retired Coast Guard pilot Eric Vogelbacher leads cadets at their first meeting in Mountain City.
Last week, the Civil Air Patrol 506th Currahee squadron held its first meeting at the Mountain City Playhouse.
A group of cadets had been participating at the squadron headquarters in Toccoa, but started meeting locally to cut down on the commute and attract more youth from the area.
CAP is the Air Force Auxiliary and includes a cadet program for youth ages 12-21. The cadet program emphasizes Leadership, Aerospace Education, Character Development, Physical Fitness, and Volunteer Service.
In addition to the above, cadets are eligible to complete a total of ten flights in gliders and airplanes. They can also qualify in emergency services, develop skills in cybersecurity, and pursue a private pilot’s license.
The cadets promote through achievements and ranks modeled after the Air Force. They can earn the Billy Mitchell award, which is considered roughly equivalent to Eagle Scout.
Cadets wear air force style uniforms, but are volunteers, not members of the military.
There is no commitment to go on to military service.
Anyone interested in becoming a cadet, adult leader, or supporter can contact go.currahee.506@gmail.com for more information.