Alabama-Florida-Georgia-Mississippi-Puerto Rico-Tennessee March 2005

COMMANDER’S COMMENTS
Col Matt Sharkey

Instead of the normal article, I thought I would write about the latest
National Board in cold Washington DC, with the hope it will enlighten
you to the goings on at the highest levels of our organization. This recap
is not meant to be the official word, since some policy letters, regulation
changes and assignments still need to be issued, but this will give you a
look at what is forthcoming.

On Day 1 of my trip, the National Commander hosted a rollout

ceremony at Fort Belvoir of the Gippsland G-8 Airvan, the ARCHER
system and the new Cessna 182T glass cockpit aircraft. The addition of
these high tech aircraft to our fleet will assist us in performing our
“Missions for America.”

Later in the evening, a reception

was held at the Rayburn Building, in
which congressional representatives
from across America were invited to
view the Archer system and meet
with CAP volunteers. The cadets
from Civic Leadership Academy
(CLA) were in attendance as well.

Major General Wheless and partners at the ribbon cutting ceremony

Civic Leadership Academy attendees from the SER (left to right),

Lt Col Bill Brockman, C/Lt Col Danielle Meyer, C/Captain John Young,
C/Lt Col Angela Petelos with the SER Commander, Col Matt Sharkey

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(Commander’s Comments continued)
The next day was one where members of Congress were visited by CAP members to include Wing
Commanders, their staffs and the cadets from the Civic Leadership Academy. A breakfast briefing took
place to ensure that all were up to speed on the message to be delivered. Throughout the day, CAP
members were seen braving the cold to move from building to building. That evening, I sat through the
Finance meeting while the SER Vice Commander, Colonel Eileen Parker, held a meeting with the Wing
Commanders, reviewing the calendar and other points of interest.

The last two days of the trip were filled with the business of the National Board. The information provided
here is a loose chronological order and is not ranked in order of importance:
• The opening ceremony had a guest speaker as part of the executive leadership training plan. Maj
Gen Roger Burg, USAF, who serves as the Director of Strategic Security, Office of the Deputy
Chief of Staff for Air and Space Operations at the Pentagon.
• Update briefing were presented by Major General Wheless, Colonel Vogt and Mr. Allenback. Maj
Gen Wheless announced various safety initiatives in moving our organization forward with
regards to Safety. These initiatives can be found elsewhere in this newsletter. Mr. Allenback
talked about membership as part of his presentation which will be touched upon in another bullet
point.
• A video was shown about a potential CAP show to be hosted on the Military Channel. The show’s
topic was about CAP response during the 2004 hurricane season.
• CAPR 60-11, Pilot Continuation Training Program, was passed and this replaces CAPR 50-11.
• VHF Repeater Requirements Study was briefed.
• From the Development Committee, the wear of grade on both sides of the collar on the BDUs
was approved. The phase in date for completion is 30 Sept 05.
• From the Development Committee, new EMT/Paramedic badges were approved. Casting of the
device needs to occur and the rollout date is unknown by me.
• From the Advanced Technology Group, a briefing and video presentation about Archer took
place.
• From the IT Group, a briefing on the items they are working
• From the Cadet Programs Group, a policy letter revising the CPFT Standards was briefed and it
was announced that the CAPM 52-16 will reviewed this year for re-write.
• A new supplemental photo ID card was approved. This card is optional for the membership and
will require an additional fee. The purpose of this card is not for base access, since installation
commanders control that, but this card should allow for better ease for access. The expected role
out date of the cards is 1 October with pre-orders available in the next two months.
• Three year membership renewals were approved.
• Glider cadet orientation flights fund received $45,000.
• A briefing about the “Members for Missions 2005” was presented. Our organization over the year
has lost some 5000 members and recruiting as a whole is down from 14000 in 2002 to 9000 in
2004. Retention numbers have also slipped over to the same timeframe. I have posted the
power-point presentation on the SER website for your viewing.
• Chaplain Sharp presented a status of the Chaplain Corp briefing.
• Colonel Dave Ellsworth, the NTL HQ IACE Coordinator presented a brief on IACE.
• An open forum discussion took place after the meeting. The Wing Administrators hiring was a
center piece discussion, in which hiring, job responsibilities and such were covered. Also, a
template MOU that has been authorized by the National Commander was covered. These were
emailed to the Wing Commanders after the meeting.
And with that, everyone prepared to go home that evening or the next day.

Wing Membership Numbers for 2005

March Cadets Seniors Jan 05 +/-
Alabama 1051 296 755 1087 -36
Florida 4198 1995 2203 4366 -168
Georgia 1790 785 1005 1846 -56
Mississippi 520 180 340 525 -5
Puerto Rico 1226 846 380 1234 -8
SER HQ 92 0 92 92 0
Tennessee 1318 562 756 1340 -22
10195 4664 5531 10490 -295

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(Commander’s Comments continued)

Cadet O-ride funding chart shown here is what National HQ has on record for payment as of 7 March 2005.

FY 04 Actuals FY 05 Budget FY 05 Actuals FY 05 Available Executed

SE REGION $103.44 $ 5,690.00 $ - $ 5,690.00 0%
Alabama $8,492.84 $ 6,136.00 $ - $ 6,136.00 0%
Florida $44,216.54 $ 26,565.00 $ 6,239.45 $ 20,325.55 23%
Georgia $22,164.63 $ 13,388.00 $ 1,586.91 $ 11,801.09 12%
Mississippi $7,689.32 $ 4,693.00 $ 1,046.86 $ 3,646.14 22%
Puerto Rico $20,367.70 $ 10,069.00 $ 3,726.66 $ 6,342.34 37%
Tennessee $13,010.55 $ 14,382.00 $ 4,635.11 $ 9,746.89 32%

SAR Training chart shown here is what National HQ has on record for payment as of 9 March 2005.

FY 04 YTD FY 05 YTD Unexpended %Budget

Actuals FY 05 Budget Actuals Balance Executed
SE REGION $ 3,000.40 $ 1,734.00 $ 576.09 $ 1,157.91 33%
Alabama $ 31,546.15 $ 26,925.00 $ 765.80 $ 26,159.20 3%
Florida $ 38,249.99 $ 62,429.00 $ 13,450.45 $ 48,978.55 22%
Georgia $ 35,837.84 $ 29,686.00 $ 1,352.18 $ 28,333.82 5%
Mississippi $ 30,149.88 $ 21,408.00 $ 2,138.95 $ 19,269.05 10%
Puerto Rico $ 4,422.22 $ 10,629.00 $ 5,188.22 $ 5,440.78 49%
Tennessee $ 31,393.58 $ 25,104.00 $ 1,054.34 $ 24,049.66 4%

In the month of February 2005 the CAP NATIONAL OPERATIONS CENTER coordinated 9 missions involving 68 sorties (#
of missions / # of sorties) for the Southeast Region

Counterdrug
Immigrations & Customs Enforcement - PR (2/7) SEADS - SER (2/14) US Marshall Service - PR (1/1)
Homeland Security - no missions
Immigrations & Customs Enforcement - no missions
Military Support to Civil Authorities - no missions
Support to military commanders
Fire Missions - FL (1/23)
Other Air Force Assigned Missions
FL HLS video support
PR ELT Mission (1/1)
Corporate Missions
Coastal Patrol (Visual Search for Distressed Boaters & Swimmers) - GA
(1/16)

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 SER CHAPLAIN
Submitted by Chaplain Ralph Rivers, Lt Col, SER/HC

THOUGHTS FROM YOUR CHAPLAIN

I recently spent a good bit of time preparing a meditation based on Ezekiel 37. It is an Old Testament
reading involving the prophet and a valley full of dry bones. It is a wonderful reading filled with life and
death and the power of God’s presence in complex settings. The other day I watched a program on the
life and death of Malcolm Campbell, the land and water speed record holder. Part of what stuck with me
was the extent to which we will go to find survivors or mortal remains and return them to their family.
That’s part of our story as members of the Air Force Auxiliary, Civil Air Patrol. From time to time we are
called to find those who are lost. Most of the time, our searching involves aircraft. In those aircraft are
people with families, friends, casual acquaintances and business associates who are anxious. We do our
work in airplanes and ground teams and a host of others who are part of the team trying to know what
happened and return the living and dead to their family and community.

I think it matters that we spend a lot of time and resources in search and rescue. Finding answers to the
“what happened” question is some of what it means to be part of the human community. No matter
whether your role is to be part of an aircrew, a ground team, or one of the many support team members,
our common goal is the find and restore.

Our task is as much a spiritual quest as it is a physical journey. Ask anyone who has either been the
object of our efforts or a family member who has had a lost soul returned. A common response is that
they prayed for the lost and for those who were trying to find them

Ezekiel witnessed the restoration to life of thousands of soldiers who had been left to rot where they had
fallen in battle. Malcolm Campbell was returned to his family over 30 years after his boat, the Bluebird,
came apart at over 300 miles per hour.

I’m glad that we have Chaplains whose most important job is to be there and know how to listen and
counsel not only our personnel, but also families and friends who wait and worry. The founders and early
CAP framers thought that a Chaplain Service was essential to the fulfillment of the missions given us to
perform. We are glad to serve.

SER DEPLOYED MILITARY

SUPPORT PROJECT
Submitted by Chaplain Dewey Painter, Lt Col, SER Chaplain Special Projects

DON’T FORGET OUR DEPLOYED TROOPS

Spring is here and in too many places the avid interest in, and support for, our deployed military forces
has slacked off. The enthusiasm, with which the support poured in back in the early days of the war in
Afghanistan and Iraq, has gradually changed to a “ho-hum” attitude in many people’s minds. Sometimes
we need to remind people that our men and women are still deployed, still away from homes and families
and still potentially in harm’s way. As long as they are there, we here at home need to make a concerted
effort to show them our care and support.

The Southeast Region Command is still actively working with the CAP Wings, various veteran’s groups,
corporate sponsors, civic and non-profit organizations to keep the morale-boosting shipments going day
by day, week by week. Since 1 January 2005 we have helped to send a total of 129 “Share Packages” to
the military overseas. The latest organization to get on board with CAP is a non-profit called “Feed the
Children”. They have announced that they are donating a very large quantity of materials to be packed in
the boxes to go to the troops. This is a very generous donation that will be much appreciated by the men
and women who receive the packages, and will remind them that the people of America have not
forgotten them and their sacrifices.

4
(SER Deployed Military Support continued)

For those who have spent deployed time in the military, remember Mail Call and what an important time it
was when we got mail and packages from home. It is a very disturbing fact that many of these young
soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines never receive any kind of mail from family or friends. How
discouraging it is for them to see their buddies getting mail, knowing that there will be none for them.
What a thrill it is for them to get a large box with their name on it, packed with goodies, snacks, toiletries,
cards, notes, etc. from “The World”, and to know that they are not forgotten. It is just a simple thing, but it
can make all the difference in the morale and attitude for some young man or woman far away from
home.

The packages are now being sent in Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes which cost $7.70 each in postage to
mail. Anyone who would like to help by sponsoring a box or boxes by paying the postage cost should
contact Chaplain Painter. We will let the receiving troops know who sponsored their box. If you have a
friend, relative or loved one who is deployed in any US military branch, anywhere in the world, we will see
that a package is sent to him/her. Just get the full military mailing address to Chaplain Painter and a box
will go out immediately.

If you and your Unit, Group or Wing has not gotten involved in supporting the troops, why not? For
further information as to how you can help, please contact Chaplain Painter at
chpainterserdmsp@wmconnect.com.

SER 2005 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Submitted by Eileen Parker, Col, SER Vice Commander

A date has been set for the Tennessee Wing/Southeast Region

Conference! Mark your calendars for October 21-23, 2005 in Knoxville,
Tennessee at the Radisson near downtown. More information will be
forthcoming regarding registration. The theme will be on
Membership/Retention. CAPMART is being firmed up, and there will be many great
Seminars and a lot of support from National Headquarters.

See you in Tennessee! There will be a Social on Friday evening, so come in early!

SER STAFF COLLEGE

ATTEND THE
SOUTHEAST REGION
STAFF COLLEGE

24-30 JULY 2005 AT MCGHEE TYSON ANGB, KNOXVILLE, TN.

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(SER Staff College continued)

The Region Staff College is the formal in-residence course required for completion of Level 4,
Professional Development. It prepares selected CAP officers to better execute the duties and
responsibilities associated with CAP command and staff positions at squadron level and above.

You are eligible to attend if you have completed Level 3, Professional Development and hold
command or staff positions. When warranted, Region Commanders may permit attendance at
Region Staff College prior to completion of Level 3. The course includes lectures and seminars
covering interpersonal, group and written communication, management, leadership and
conference techniques.

Submit your applications on CAPF-17 to:

Wes Hannah, Jr, Lt Col, CAP
Director SERSC 2005
4414 Turnberry Court
Bradenton, Florida 34210-2965
Phone: 941 798 3583
E Mail: wesmarge@tampabay.rr.com
COST: $50.00

Applications need to be in no later than 01 July 2005.

SER SAFETY
Submitted by Ernie Manzano, Maj, SER Director of Safety

Successful Mishap Prevention

The purpose of this pamphlet is to help Safety Officers discharge their safety
management responsibilities which will in turn reduce the frequency and
severity of both on and off duty mishaps.

1. Preamble
2. Safety Salesmanship
3. Sales Product
4. Knowing the Causes of Mishaps
5. Job Analysis
6. Human Touch
7. Talking to People
8. A Way to Show Interest
9. Summary

Those Who Dare to Lead Must Never Cease to Learn

1. Preamble
Success in mishap prevention is not easy. It requires the same kind of persistent effort that is required in
any worthwhile endeavor.

A Safety Officer's sincerity in mishap prevention must be combined with a working knowledge of the
fundamentals of mishap prevention before mishaps can be successfully controlled. The suggestions
offered here are intended to help the Safety Officer achieve both management and safety goals.

Supervision is the act of controlling the performance of others for the purpose of achieving an established
goal. At one time, the Safety Officer's job was just to get the job accomplished. Today the Safety
Officer's responsibilities include maintaining a harmonious and safe relationship with all other CAP
members.

The Safety Officer is expected to know mishap prevention techniques and maintain an active interest
even at times when individuals seem to show a lack of concern for their own safety.

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(SER Safety continued)

The Safety Officer is expected to recognize faulty performance, unusual occurrences or substandard
conditions that interfere with the mission or may generate mishaps.

The Safety Officer is expected to recognize the development of a poor attitude or other mental
disturbance that might affect one's work.

The Safety Officer is expected to be mindful of the fact that faulty performances will result in injuries are
the same faulty performances that are already recognized as waste, such as:
- improper handling of materials and equipment
- improper operation of equipment
- deviation from established standards
- lack of knowledge or indifference by the worker

The Safety Officer who hopes to maintain high operating efficiency must accept mishap prevention as an
integral part of daily operations and make use of the fact that mishaps are the result of faulty
performances.

SER EMERGENCY SERVICES

Submitted by Luis Negron, Maj, SER Deputy Chief of Staff for Emergency Services

SEARCH AND RESCUE

A. Significant SAR Cases:

ALWG – Two (2) non-distress missions with 09 personnel assigned and
1.1 hours of flight time.
B. Disaster Relief: NTR
C. Out of SER Resource Use: None.
D. Miscellaneous:
SER – Southeast Region will be conducting a SDIS exercise. The
actual date of the exercise will be released up to 45 days prior
to the exercise.
SER - The National Response Plan has been released and you can
download it from the following link:
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/interapp/editorial/editorial_0566.xml
ALWG – Scheduled SAREX for Shelby County Airport on April 23.
ALWG – SAR College at Calhoun College in Decatur on March 21-22.
MSWG – Training Mission T04SEMS006 scheduled for 18-21 March
2005.
PRWG – No activity to report.
TNWG – USAF SAR Evaluation in May.

COUNTERDRUG

A. Significant Counterdrug Cases: NTR

B. Miscellaneous: NTR

HOMELAND SECURITY

A. Significant HLS Cases:

GAWG - CAP-05-0301, SDIS for GEMA and White County EOC with 04
personnel assigned and 17.0 hrs of flight time
B. Miscellaneous:
Mission Detection: The Underwater Port Security System - The Coast Guard's newest wave
of anti-terrorism tool is being unleashed on ports nationwide. The Underwater Port Security System
(UPSS) can detect, track, classify and interdict intruders, and allows for the inspection of hulls and pier
7
(SER Emergency Services continued)

structures or anything that is underwater without an invitation. It adds an additional layer of protection to
our ports, and is available in the U.S. anywhere and anytime. It can hear, see and talk underwater and it's
compact enough fit in a large suitcase (www.military.com)

SER MEDICAL
Submitted by Pat Faunt, Lt Col, SER Nurse Officer

After reading THIS, you'll NEVER look at a banana in the same way again!!!
BANANAS: Containing three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose, and glucose combined with fiber, a
banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two
bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the
number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us
keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it
a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from
depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a
type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood, and
generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which
can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in
cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the
perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the
banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and
stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this
year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has
shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to
overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened
with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood
sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a
banana for soothing relief. Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood
sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a
banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to
gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found
the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-
induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods

8
(SER Medical continued)

every two hours to keep levels steady

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and
smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also
neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the
physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat
bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural
mood enhancer, tryptophan.

Smoking: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as
the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine
withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain, and
regulates your body's water balance when we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our
potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in "The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a
regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana
skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or
surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times
the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and
twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods
around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the
doctor away!"

Be Aware, Take Care

N CIVIL AIR PATRO

SER CADET PROGRAMS

Submitted by Pete Norris, Lt Col, SER Deputy Chief of Staff for Cadet Programs

C
Caaddeett C
Coorrnneerr
SER CADET COMPETITON UPDATE
Fort Benning, near Columbus Georgia has been selected as the site for the 2005 Southeast Region
Cadet Competition. The competition will start with in-processing in the late afternoon of April 29th and
conclude with an awards presentation on May 1st. Currently a site survey of the Post has not been
completed, so details such as cost of meals and billeting, or schedule of events are not available. Wing
CC’s and DCP’s will receive updated information as it becomes available.

ALABAMA WING CONFERENCE

The Alabama Wing Conference was recently held at the Bradley Conference Center at the Children’s
Hospital in Birmingham. Kudos to Col John Tilton and his staff for an impressive event. Those in
attendance included Col. James Rushing, Tennessee Wing Commander; Col John Wilkes, Mississippi
Wing Commander; and former Alabama Wing Commanders, Col Robert Dorning and Col Joey Owens;

9
(SER Cadet Programs continued)

along with many other guest and dignitaries. Colors were presented by the Alabama Wing Color Guard
from the Bessemer Composite Squadron.

Several awards were presented: Cadet of the year – C/Lt Col Angela Petelos, Bessemer Composite
Squadron; Senior Member of the year – Lt Col Lynn Hasha, ALWG Staff. Cadet Petelos is also the Chair
of the Southeast Region CAC and recently returned from the Civic Leadership Academy in Washington
D.C. Lt Col Hasha is a former Alabama Wing DCP (turned finance officer).

The cadet programs element of the conference was directed by 1st Lt. Justin Smith, Commander of the
Lee County Cadet Squadron and a member of the ALWG Cadet Programs staff. Lt Col James Norris
talked with the cadets about planned SER Cadet activities, including the Cadet Competition at Ft.
Benning (GA) and the plans for the 2005-06 SER Winter Encampment. Also, Cadet Jacob Meins of the
Samford University Air Force ROTC Detachment, gave a presentation on AFROTC scholarships and
opportunities.

SER COMMUNICATIONS

Submitted by Joel Katz, Lt Col, SER Director of Communications

As we progress to new frequencies going into the world of narrow band communications, we are seeing a
major change in the way all of us communicate. Today, every note, letter, e-mail or communications
roster that has any references to our current or possible future frequencies bears a nice bold “FOR
OFFICIAL USE ONLY” as a header and footer of every page. We no longer give out frequencies, or even
hint as to what the designator may be of the frequency that we are using. We are becoming more secure
in our operations, something we should have done long ago.

We are now looking at the possibility of changing a large number of our call signs to become compliant
with USAF requirements. The 100 series regulations will be changing and we may find our way of
communicating change drastically over the next year or two. This will be the beginning of a new era for all
of us, harder especially those that still adhere to some of the amateur way of communicating, easier for
those that can accept change and new operating procedures...

We will see a real push for proper prowords and procedures. We will need to get all of our HF and VHF
radios on the air as much as possible to maintain a proper radio net at every level of the organization.
We, all of us will need to work together as a team to build our communications within Southeast Region to
become number 1 in the nation.

We, the Southeast Region Communications team have been a little lax in writing CAPF 33s on stations
that are not adhering to the Regulations as we felt the Wings should watch their own. I have asked all of
them, and I ask all Southeast Region staff to monitor the frequencies and forward any infractions to me. I
will contact the Wing Directors of Communications and ask them to take whatever action is required to
insure that any violations of the 100 series Regulations are followed.

There are over 90 HF compliant radios in Southeast Region. We want to see at least 75% on the air on a
daily basis. Radios sitting in a closet or in the box under the desk are of no use to CAP, USAF, or any of
our operations.

(NOTE – We suggest every Southeast Region radio operator obtain a copy of the new HF-VHF
designators. If you would like the information, please send an e- mail to ltcjkatz@stis.net with your home
address and it will be mailed out to you. )

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 SER OPERATIONS

Submitted by David E. Lehtonen, Lt Col, SER Deputy Chief of Staff of Operations

This month we will look at crew resource management (CRM) as it applies to our CAP flight program.
Nine people from CAP regions and NHQ were invited in January to attend a CRM course at Flight Safety
International in Vero Beach, FL for the express purpose of communicating to the various regions the
basic tenants of CRM. Five areas were reviewed – communication techniques; situational awareness;
decision making; leadership; and stress management – as they relate to the utilization of all available
resources in the cockpit.

The pilot in command (PIC), as was discussed last month, is responsible to not only assure that
airworthiness issues are addressed but also, to ensure the safety of that flight. As this applies to CRM,
the PIC should use all of the resources available to him to safely conduct a flight. The five areas
identified above relate to this safety as follows:
o Communication – A perceived need is followed by sending a message to a crew member
who receives the message and provides feedback to the originator to reach an operational
goal. Effective techniques include listening, focusing on behavior - not people - and verifying
that the operational outcome is achieved. To assure that your crew fully understands
directions, illicit feedback.
o Situational Awareness – An individual’s accurate perception of reality is true situational
awareness. Loss of operational S/A and potentially beginning an error chain include such
things as violating minimums (busting the MDA on an instrument approach), using
undocumented procedures or departing from SOP’s, to no one flying the airplane or to
inadequate crew vigilance. Human deficiencies such as communication difficulties, ambiguity
of directions, unresolved discrepancies and preoccupation or distraction lead to starting the
error chain. Fight against these deficiencies at all times.
o Decision Making – The basic ideas behind decision making are identifying a problem and
effectively communicating it to others to arrive at agreement and obtain commitment. This
process involves collecting data, identifying alternatives, jointly weighing their impact, and
selecting from among the alternatives. Once an alternative is selected and implemented, the
result of the alternative is evaluated. Good decisions help to keep from starting an error
chain.
o Leadership – A leader is a person whose ideas and actions influence the thought and
behavior of others. As it applies to CRM, the leader regulates or coordinates information flow
and motivates crew members through discussion so that appropriate decisions can be
reached,
o Stress Management – Stress is used to describe the human response to demands placed on
it. There are three types; physical, physiological, and emotional. Physical stress is identified
with environmental conditions, noise, or stages of hypoxia while fatigue or lack of physical
fitness contributes to physiological stress. Emotional stress results from social factors related
to everyday life. A certain amount of stress can contribute to high performance but when
long term demands cause stress to be chronic, irrational behavior will often result, potentially
beginning the error chain.

As a crewmember, you have the right to assure that the flight you are on will not jeopardize your life
through any action/inaction, miscommunication or misunderstanding. Use all the resources available to
you to make the proper inquiries and state your opinion assertively, remembering that assertive behavior
does not challenge authority; it clarifies position, understanding or intent. As a result, this behavior
enhances the safe operation of the flight. These ideas only scratch the surface of CRM techniques. A
more comprehensive presentation is being prepared for presentation to the various wings but in the
meantime, think about these ideas and avoid the error chain.

11
 SER COUNTERDRUG
Submitted by Ernie Bilotto, Lt Col, SER Director, Counterdrug Operations

The Southeast Region is unique in the fact that the staff is operational and is cohesive in its ways of
supporting the wings and their operations. In order for CAP to move into the future during today’s
environment, it’s important that staff at all levels, from headquarters to the squadrons be able to provide
the leadership as “ONE” as we do within the Southeast Region.

However, throughout the country there is currently some division between Emergency Services,
Homeland Security and Counterdrug. Being involved in the Counterdrug operations for 18 years, of which
have been primarily with government agencies’ upper level management and our headquarters staff
allowing me to be an interactive part of the growth within the program. Also being a former law
enforcement officer I know the importance of the idea that you never promise anything you can’t deliver
when interfacing with these agencies, because they’ll never call upon you again if you do. It’s important
that we insure that there isn’t any division amongst these bodies within CAP when communicating with
various government agencies and that they operate in unity. Recently during a teleconference call, to
quote John Salvador “it’s important that we all speak with one voice”. Meaning if one does not know what
the CAP line is, then, it is best not to say anything than to say the wrong thing. It is important to maintain
the integrity and professionalism of CAP and the only way for us to this is to have “One Voice”.

So I praise all my associates and the other staff for their fine work and support and look forward to our
continued partnership and ask that we all continue to strive for the wings to be as “ONE” too and spread
our continuity throughout the CAP.

SER PERSONNEL

Submitted by Diane Reid, Maj, SER Director of Personnel/PAO

Southeast Region 2004 Award Winners

Senior Member of the Year – Lt Col Randall L. Stripling, TN-001
Cadet of the Year – C/Lt Col Angela M. Petelos, AL-087
Cadet of the Year – C/Capt Robert D. Grete, MS-100
George Texido Legislative Officer of the Year – Lt Col John Brennan, FL-999
Safety Officer of the Year – 1Lt Ramon L. Nunez, FL-355
Communicator of the Year – Lt Col Allen Hedegaard, MS-000
Public Affairs Officer of the Year – 1Lt Paige Joyner, GA-130
Logistician of the Year – Lt Col Wilma Ward, TN-001

FRANK G. BREWER MEMORIAL AEROSPACE AWARD:

Senior Member - Lt Col Clarence Hauck, MS-001
Cadet – C/Lt Col Miguel E. Santiago, PR-137
Individual – Maj John T. Houchin, FL-010
Organization – Isla Grande Flying School, Puerto Rico
Anniversary – Mr. Richard A. Ortega, Florida
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE NOMINEES FROM
THE SOUTHEAST REGION!

12
 (SER Personnel continued)

PROMOTIONS AROUND THE REGION

Dawson, Douglas Lt Col TN-001

Fender, Charles Lt Col AL-106
Kilburn, Darrell Lt Col TN-133
Littlefield, Suzanne Lt Col GA-154
Pope, Joe Lt Col MS-100
Steel-Goodwin, Linda Lt Col MS-048

SER STAFF APRIL BIRTHDAYS

Lt Col Valerie Brown 15 April

Maj Ernie Manzano 30 April

PLEASE JOIN US IN WISHING THEM A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Effective immediately, grade insignia worn on the BDU uniform is now authorized to be worn on
both sides (left and right) of the collar. Use of the cloth “CAP” cutout on the left collar of the BDU
uniform will be phased out 01 OCT 2005.

Use of the “CAP” cutout on both sides (left and right) of the collar of the BDU uniform for senior
members and cadets without grade will continue to be authorized.

FYI from the Director of Personnel: Personnel Actions, such as Promotion Requests (CAPF-2) and
Requests for Award (CAPF-120) are extremely important to our members. They are the “paycheck” we
give to our members for their hard work and dedication. I would like to encourage all Personnel Officers,
Squadron Commanders, Group Commanders, and Wing Commanders to be aware of the approval dates
on these documents. As they progress up the chain of command, check the dates to be sure that they
haven’t been unduly delayed somewhere along the chain. If paperwork comes for your approval, look at
the dates and if it appears they have been delayed at some point, find out why. Let’s close up those
“black holes” that exist on people’s desks and in briefcases. Remember, these pieces of paper are more
than forms or paperwork; they are the recognition and respect of our members.

ATTENTION TO ALL CAP MEMBERS!!!!!!!!

The long awaited new CAPM 39-1, Civil Air Patrol Uniforms, is now available on the national web site
under Members/Publications and Forms. It is a file of almost 5 MB, but is also available in smaller files by
chapter.

Please spread the word and let's all get with the new uniform wear instructions!

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 THIS AND THAT

Submitted by Matt Sharkey, Col, SER Commander

In late February 2005,

CAP members were
invited aboard the
USS John F Kennedy
(CV-67) to participate
in a "Tiger" Cruise.
This cruise allowed
for family, friends and
outside organizations
to participate in a day
cruise and tour of an
active duty aircraft
carrier. Events throughout the day included live
fire demos, bridge, pre-fly control and combat control stations and live flight operations. Flight operations
included carrier launch and recovery of SH-60s, F-18s and F-14s, as well as mach speed fly-bys.
Members from across Florida participated in this once in a lifetime event. Special thanks to Captain Glenn
Powers for coordinating the event between the US Navy and CAP.

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 HELP
WANTED!
SOUTHEAST REGION SAFETY IS LOOKING FOR TWO (2) OFFICERS, ONE FOR AIR SAFETY AND
ONE FOR GROUND SAFETY.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
¾ Captain or above
¾ Have completed Level II
¾ Mission Safety Officer Rated or Senior Rating in Safety or Safety experience
¾ Must be willing to work only with the SER and not hold any other position in a Squadron, Group,
or Wing at the time of appointment. The candidate should be a TEAM player and feel
comfortable in front of other Officers, NCO’s and Cadets.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR AIR SAFETY:
¾ MTP, O-Ride Pilot, 101 qualified (need not be current)
¾ Maintenance Officer
¾ FRO
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR GROUND SAFETY:
¾ UDF Team Leader or UDF 101 qualified
¾ IC (need not be current)
¾ CAP Driver’s License

All interested individuals, please reply to:

Ernie Manzano, Major

Southeast Region Director of Safety
emanzano@ser.cap.gov

ALABAMA WING
Commander: Col John Tilton

Submitted by Pat Mitcham, Maj, Alabama Wing

On Saturday, February 26, the Alabama Wing,

Civil Air Patrol held a practice Search and
Rescue at Tuscaloosa Regional Airport. The
purpose of the simulated exercise was to provide
training for the multiple functions needed under
the ICS system when conducting an actual
search and rescue. The senior members were
divided into teams and each team was led by an
Incident Commander who was also training. Lt
Col Glen Rush provided the scenario and each
team worked the exercise as if it had actually
occurred. At the midpoint of the day, the different
Capt King and SM Kuhn from the Dothan Squadron as they plan their functions on the team were switched from
part in the SAREX of February 26, 2005 at Tuscaloosa team member to team member and the
exercise continued. A 48 hour simulated
exercise was completed in an eight hour training session. Senior members working on advanced ES
qualifications were challenged by the scenario. Over 45 members spent the day improving their skills and
enhancing the ability of the Alabama Wing to complete the Civil Air Patrol mission in Emergency
Services.

15
(Alabama Wing continued)

The following senior members from the

Alabama Wing participated in the Feb. 19 & 20
Squadron Leadership School (SLS) course
held at Maxwell Air Force Base: Front row
from left: Gary Ernest, Christopher Rousseau,
Raymond Pettitt, Tanya Hallmark, Lou
Enriquez Middle: Matthew Moncus, Terry
Jackson, Oliver Cork, Michelle Becker,
Deborah Enriquez Back: Bob Stewart, Silvano
Wueschner, Samuel Brown, Jim Corey,
Randall Epstein

Submitted by Al Allenback, Colonel, USAF (Retired), Executive

Director, Civil Air Patrol

The AFA "Outstanding CAP Cadet" award is

presented to Cadet/CMSgt David B. Greer of the
Clanton Composite Squadron by Al Allenback, AFA
Alabama State President and CAP Executive
Director. Greer won the award for his leadership of
the cadet squadron. Lt Col Dick Moncus, CAP, the
Squadron commander, Lt Col Rob Gaston, USAF, and
MSgt Teddy Davis, both from the Air University,
assisted in the presentation.

Submitted by
FLORIDA WING
Commander: Col Joe Martin

Submitted by Virginia Knudsen, Capt,Commander, Aspira South

Cadet Squadron, FL-802

Recently Cadets and Senior Members from the Aspira

South Cadet Squadron had the opportunity to attend an
F-16 tour/briefing and static display at Homestead Air
Base. Capt Lydle, F-16 pilot, fielded many questions
from the cadets. The
fire department tour
culminated with a fire
hose demonstration
used for aircraft fires.

16
(Florida Wing continued)

Submitted by Jackie Zarrilli, 1Lt, CAP, PAO, Boca Raton Composite Squadron, Florida Wing
Patrol Cadet Commander Completes Tour of Duty in
Civil Air Patrol Boca Raton Composite Squadron former Cadet
Commander, William (Billy) Morden is back state side after completing his
tour of duty in Iraq. SPC Morden’s B Company, 1-14 Infantry, 25 Infantry
Light Division spent 387 days in Iraq. The company has returned to their
base in Schofield Barracks,
Hawaii.
During his recent R&R in
Florida, Billy stopped by to
visit his squadron where his
13-year-old younger brother
Matthew is now an airman
and his father, a Captain, is the Squadron
Commander. Billy was a CAP member for six years
and earned the prestigious General Billy Mitchell
Award, making a Cadet Second Lieutenant. This Civil
Air Patrol Milestone Achievement allowed him to earn
E-3 (PFC) right out of army boot camp. While a cadet,
Morden also was the recipient of the Boca Raton Pilot
Association’s Aviation scholarship from which he was
able to get his private pilots license.

SPC Morden is engaged to Dalila Nieves and they plan to

wed in the summer of 2006. Ms. Nieves is attending
college in South Carolina where she is studying to become
an elementary school teacher. Morden has two more
years in the Army and hopes to become a recruiter. Before
he left, he had some words of advise for his cadets, “Don’t
loose sight of your long term goals, but do enjoy what you
have now!”

GEORGIA WING
Commander: Col Don Greene

Submitted by David Blubaugh, Lt Col, Gerogia Wing Vice Commander

HAPPENINGS IN THE GEORGIA WING:

Georgia is making final preparations for the Compliance Inspection, which starts on 9 April, and we feel
very confident about it. We welcome the inspection team. Let’s see, how did that saying go when I was
on active duty and the IG team came to the base? I think it was something like “We’re here to help you!”
and “We’re glad to have you here!” Honestly, GAWG is ready!

The Georgia Wing Conference is Saturday 23 April at Robins AFB. Due to base access issues, the final
cutoff date for registration and preparation of the MSA is 15 April. If you are planning to come, we must
have your registration information by that date at our Wing HQ. No kidding. Robins AFB has very strict
control and CAP members are not allowed access to the base unless they are on the MSA, regardless of
who they are. Don’t get caught outside the gate because most likely, no amount of pleading on our part
will get you on.

Our upcoming USAF SAR/DR Eval has been moved to 20-21 May, due to scheduling conflicts later in the
year. We have several Region members who live in Georgia. Any of you who are ES qualified and who
are interested in participating should contact our Director of Emergency Services, Lt Col Joe Knight III, at
joeknt@aol.com.
17
(Georgia Wing continued)

GAWG has just recently changed the way our members handle the deferring of Inoperative Equipment in
CAP Aircraft. With the help of our members who are FAA Inspectors and A&P mechanics, we have
developed a new form and new procedure that clearly ensures that an aircraft is not flown with an
inoperative component unless that item is correctly deferred in accordance with Federal Aviation
Regulations. If your wing is interested in looking at our new program, please contact me at
dblubaugh@earthlink.net and I will provide you with the details and explain how and why we got where
we are with this important issue. Remember, the FAA takes this topic very seriously and your wing
should, too.

In closing, I would remind you that my article last month was devoted to SAFETY. Interestingly enough,
Maj Gen Wheless introduced a new Safety Initiative at the Winter National Board in Washington two
weeks ago. This program has multiple points that will be disseminated through Unit Safety Officers.
However, I would like to emphasize one major point here. Last month, I talked extensively about our
individual responsibility, as CAP members, to maintain a safe operation. One very important aspect of
Gen Wheless’ program is the introduction of a new Safety Pledge, which reinforces that responsibility by
making sure our members understand that they must be accountable for their actions with regard to
maintaining a safe environment for our personnel and equipment. Use this pledge at every opportunity at
CAP functions to enhance SAFETY AWARENESS:

SAFETY PLEDGE:

As a Civil Air Patrol member I pledge to promote an uncompromising safety environment for
myself and others, and to prevent the loss of, or damage to Civil Air Patrol assets entrusted to
me. I will perform all my activities in a professional and safe manner, and will hold myself
accountable for my actions in all of our Missions for America.

PUERTO RICO WING

Commander: Col Herman Liboy

Submitted by Bartolo Ortiz, Lt Col, SER Internal Aerospace Education Officer

Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Twelve cadets from several units of Group VII,
Puerto Rico Wing are looking forward to their graduation ceremony and to
receiving their certificate and badge after having completed the assembly
and flight portion of the Model
Rocketry Program. The flight
portion of the program turned into
a friendly contest to see whose
rocket flew the highest and who
had the closest landing in the
target range.

This event, by itself is not an

unusual activity, but having
certain leaders from the Group
Staff participate was unusual.
Maj Elsa Soto, Commander,
Group VII, Capt Michele Pineiro, Vice Commander, Group VII, and Capt
Maribel Aquino, Director of Aerospace Education, Group VII joined the
cadets in the workshop and completed all the steps designed to fulfill the
requirements for their rocketry badge.

18
History Corner by Colonel Sharkey

From CAP News, March 1975: “TOP CHAPLAIN – CAP Chaplain (Maj.) Alvin J Stewart, receives the
Distinguished Service Award from Air Force Chaplain (Col.) Ralph R Pace, National Chaplain, for being
named Civil Air Patrol’s Chaplain of the Year. Chaplain Stewart received the award for his work in
translating the Values for Living material into the Puerto Rican dialect, making the program more
meaningful to cadets in that wing. He is the Chaplain of Puerto Rico’s Mayaguez Senior Squadron.

SER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

23-24 April 2005 Georgia Wing Conference, Warner-Robins AFB

29 April – 01 May 2005 Southeast Region Cadet Competition (more info to follow)
02-05 May 2005 SER Chaplain Services Staff College at the Life
Enrichment Center on Lake Griffin, Leesburg, FL
10-11 June 2005 Florida Wing Conference, Orlando
10 June 2005 Southeast Region Staff Meeting, Orlando (tentative)
05 July 2005 National Aerospace Education Staff Officer’s School
Pensacola, FL
06-11 July 2005 National Cadet Competition, Washington, D.C.
23-30 July 2005 Southeast Region Staff College, McGee Tyson,
Knoxville, TN
05-07 August 2004 Mississippi Wing Conference, Meridian Naval Air Station
21-23 October 2005 Tennessee Wing/Southeast Region Conference,
Knoxville, TN

Please send all Squadron and Wing Newsletters to dreid1953@bellsouth.net

NEWS FLASH

You can now subscribe to the SER ReCAP Newsletter! Just go to the Southeast Region webpage,
(http://ser.cap.gov/newsletter.htm), and click on the box to subscribe. It’s easy!

I would like to thank the Public Affairs Officers of the SER Wings as well as the Groups and Squadrons in
the Southeast Region who are contributing to the SER ReCAP Newsletter. Every month, I receive more
and more great information. Without your input, there would not be a SER newsletter.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!
Diane Reid, Major
SER Director, Personnel/PAO

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