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

COMMANDER’S COMMENTS
Col Matt Sharkey

As a fan of Abraham Lincoln, I’ve read his quote, “Don’t worry when you
are not recognized, but strive to be worthy of recognition.” While I agree
wholeheartedly with his position that, above all, we should care more
about our internal barometer of success, leaders should also recognize
that CAP volunteers are worthy of recognition.

The German poet and scientist J.W. von Goethe said we should “Treat
people as if they were what they ought to be, and help them become
what they are capable of being.”

If we are to become all we can be as an organization, we must value the

efforts of each individual who sacrifices time, money, and talents on a
day-to-day basis.

For some people it is easy to call or write words of encouragement. Others need to be reminded to say
those kind words. If you fall in the latter category, let me remind you (and myself) to take the time to
recognize the members who work with you day in and day out.

At this time of year, I hope you nominated members you work with for wing, regional, and national
awards. Just the honor of being nominated may be the boost a member needs to get a second wind
which will allow him or her to achieve even more successes within the organization and in the community.

Remember that “Volunteers are not paid—not because they are worthless, but because they are
priceless.” In case I haven’t personally patted you on the back, may I say, “Good Job! I appreciate your
hard work!”

History Corner by Colonel Sharkey

From CAP News, February 1975: “Cadet Colonel Nancy Melendez became the first female cadet in the
Puerto Rico’s CAP Wing to earn the prestigious Gen Carl A Spaatz Award. Cadet Melendez who serves
as Cadet Squadron Commander of the Isla Grande Composite Squadron has been active in CAP for
more than five years.”

1
 Membership Numbers for 2005
Total +/- Cadets Senior
Alabama 1064 -23 305 759
Florida 4297 -69 2069 2228
Georgia 1831 -15 806 1025
Mississippi 524 -1 183 341
Puerto Rico 1219 -15 838 381
SER HQ 92 0 0 92
Tennessee 1327 -13 568 759
10353 -136 4770 5583
As of 21 From 20
Feb 05 Jan 05

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

ONE CHAPLAIN’S OPINION

From time to time I am asked my opinion on everything from matters of church and state to where we
should go out to eat tonight. The church and state things are much easier to opine about then the
business of the choice of eating spots. It goes without saying that the church and state issues are seldom
between Sharon and I while the dinner choice is always a family matter. In either case, I try to be
diplomatic to a fault in my sharing of opinions. I’ve found it to be a good policy. It saves a lot of fence
mending and promotes good feelings. In my line of work, that’s a good thing!

We’ve recently heard a lot about road rage. Folks seem to have very short fuses when it comes to
driving down the highways, either on the interstate or down main street. Sometimes the outcomes have
been very tragic. I think we need to give our civility quotient a check just to see how civil we are even
under the stress of simply driving to work or to the grocery.

The kinds of signals we send to our youth are full of permissions. Permission toward kindness and
gentleness or permission to give someone a strong verbal dressing down. Maybe our actions say it’s ok
to threaten to knock somebody’s block off. Some cadet may just take a cue from you and act
accordingly. I hope not.

So, the next time you get behind a silver Mercury with an antennae on the left trunk lid; don’t blink your
lights thinking the driver will get out of your way. He probably won’t and that could make you mad. Slow
down, and remember, you and that driver will probably arrive at about the same place at the same time.
He’ll be a lot less stressed than you and will be ready for that discussion of where to eat dinner once
again.

2
 SER DEPLOYED MILITARY
SUPPORT PROJECT
Submitted by Dewey Painter, Chaplain Lt Col, SER Chaplain Special Projects

Deployed Military Support Project a Holiday Success

The Southeast Region Command and the Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Maine Wings, working
closely with numerous veteran’s groups and civic organizations, were able to ship enough “Share
Packages” to serve several thousand deployed men and women in multiple locations around the world.
Once the word got out, through News Releases to the local television and radio stations, materials began
to pour in from all directions. Mission Harvest, one of our premier support providers, processed, sorted
and packed donated items in their warehouse, with several groups volunteering to help. A large group of
CAP cadets from FL Squadron 169-Herlong, worked hard packing boxes, ably assisted by U.S.
Congressman Crenshaw of Florida, who is well-known for his pro-military stance. Congressman
Crenshaw gave a much-appreciated “Well- Done” to the cadet efforts. Since the boxes were shipped in
time to arrive before Christmas, a number of the recipients sent letters of thanks:

“I would like to send out my appreciation to you for sending the care packages out to us! You all don’t know how
much we enjoy receiving care packages and seeing how much people back home support us! Thank you! I am 23 years
old and I am a cop in the Air Force.”
-- Erin Dructor

“I would personally like to thank each and every one. I passed out all of the goods to the young trigger pullers
out here. They were extremely appreciative. Thanks again for your support and dedication to our Marines. A little goes a
long way (especially when you’re a long way from home. Semper Fi!”
st
-- CAPT Edward J. Debish, Executive Officer, NQBN, 1 FSSG

“Thanks so much for the items you sent to my soldiers. The box was received and is much appreciated. Have a
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”
-- 1SG Verne J. Washington, Traveling the world…over and over again.

“We in Diego Garcia received your care package. Thank you very much. The tsunami came our way but was
very small when it hit our shore and there was no significant damage.”
-- CH Jennifer L. Bixby, LTJG USNR, Navy Support Facility

It is important to remember our military forces deployed on the front lines, and in many out-of-the-
way places all over the world. They are the “point of the spear” in the War on Terror, and are defending
the freedoms we enjoy. It is sometimes a very lonely, thankless job, far away from homes and families.
They live for mail call, and particularly so during the holidays. Something as simple as a package full of
snacks, toiletries, reading material and CDs can make a huge difference in morale. In every thank you
card or letter, the main thought expressed is their gratitude at knowing that the people back home love
and support them, that we haven’t forgotten where they are and what they’re doing. Unfortunately, there
are too many young men and women in uniform who receive little or no mail from home, and many of
these packages are addressed specifically to those individuals. Each box is packed with enough
“goodies” to be shared with 8 – 10 people, so everyone can get something special. This is an on-going
project of morale support, and is done year-round, not just during the holidays.

If you are not involved in supporting the troops, why not? To register your Unit, Group or Wing, or
for more information, please contact Chaplain Painter at chpainterserdmsp@wmconnect.com.

F-16 in Action A Day at the Office USS Truman on Station

3
 (SER Deployed Military Support Project continued)

Hornet Flight On the Road in Iraq Always Vigilant

SER STAFF COLLEGE

ATTEND THE
SOUTHEAST REGION
STAFF COLLEGE

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

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.

4
 SER SAFETY
Submitted by Ernie Manzano, Maj, SER Director of Safety

DIAGRAMMING A MISHAP
Slow Day Short Late Backlog

Inattention to Detail Complacent Attitude Perceived Pressure

HURRY
Omit, Overlook Procedures Incomplete Task Accomplishment

Start Over Malfunctioning Parts, Equipment or A/C

Wasted Resources, Lost Time Mishap

Damage Destroyed Injury Death

AT WHAT COST?
SER MEDICAL
Submitted by Pat Faunt, Lt Col, SER Nurse Officer

FEBRUARY AND YOUR HEART

Valentine’s Day reminds us of hearts, flowers and love, so let’s talk about the heart this month, especially
the women’s heart, and also the top health threats for women.

Many women think breast cancer is the #1 threat to women’s health, but the fact is heart disease is the
most significant health concern here in the United States. Approximately 366,000 women die each year
from heart disease. It’s been a common belief that heart disease affects mostly men; but in reality, more
women die of heart disease. The Heart Association reports only 8% of women know this fact.

To help reduce your risk:

a) Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
b) Watch your weight, exercise, exercise, exercise. Exercise can reduce your risk of fatal heart
disease by nearly a quarter, and when you combine exercise with other lifestyle measures such
as a healthy weight, it pays off big time. Exercise increases blood flow to your heart and
strengthens the heart’s contractions, so your heart pumps more blood with less effort. Exercise
also reduces stress which may also be a factor in heart disease.

5
 (SER Medical continued)

c) Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and grain products. Include omega 3 fatty acids, they protect
against irregular heartbeat and lower blood pressure. Some fish are a good natural source of
omega 3’s, as well as flaxseed oil, walnut oil, soybean oil and canola oil.
d) Take care of other health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol
because these conditions put a strain on your heart.
e) We now have a new generation of noninvasive heart tests which include Coronary CT scanning,
high resolution ultrasound and high resolution MRI.

Cancer is #2. According to the American Cancer Society the most common cause of U.S women’s
cancer is lung cancer. It is estimated that nearly 66,000 women in the U.S. died of lung cancer in 2002
with 90% related to cigarette smoking.

Breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death. About 40,000 women die each year. Colorectal
cancer comes in 3rd with approximately 28,000 women dying annually. To help reduce your risk: Again,
don’t smoke, exercise regularly, limit alcohol, avoid excessive sun exposure, have regular preventative
health screenings. Know your family history and review it with your doctor.

Stroke: Approximately 167,000 people in the U. S. die of stroke each year and almost 2/3 of them are
women. Stroke is not only women’s number 3 killer but is one of the leading causes of disability in the
U.S. Smoking and uncontrolled high blood pressure are important risk factors, so don’t smoke, control
blood pressure, lower cholesterol, limit saturated fats and exercise.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the #4 risk. This is an overall term for a group of lung
conditions including bronchitis and emphysema. The main cause of COPD is smoking and it’s strongly
associated with lung cancer. About 62,000 women in the U.S. die of COPD each year. Reduce your risk,
don’t smoke.

Diabetes is # 5. It’s a disease that affects the way your body uses blood sugar and affects more than 17
million Americans. In year 2000, 69,000 people died of it and more than half of them were women. So,
maintain a healthy weight, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and have your blood sugar level checked
periodically.

Pneumonia is #6. Pneumonia and influenza took the lives of more than 36,000 women in the year 2000.
You can reduce your risk by a healthy lifestyle and immunizations.

Alzheimer’s disease is #7. It affects almost 4 million Americans and is a progressive, degenerative brain
disease that starts as a slight memory loss and confusion and may eventually lead to irreversible mental
impairment. More women then men have Alzheimer’s. In fact 35,000 women die of this disease every
year; that’s more than twice the number of men. It could be women may be more affected because they
live longer and this disease increases with age.

Accidents are #8. Motor vehicle accidents (traffic related) were responsible for 40% of all accidental
deaths for women in 2000. Reduce your chance of a fatal crash by using your seat belt, keep speed
down, don’t drive if sleepy or using drugs or alcohol. Incidentally falls kill about 6,200 women each year.
These occur mainly in the home. Prevent falls by getting eye exams, also exercise to improve balance
and pay attention to your environment.

Take care and be aware.

SER AEROSPACE
SOUTHEAST REGION CIVIL AIR PATRO
EDUCATION
RS
Submitted by Dave Garner, Lt Col, SER Director of Aerospace Education

AEROSPACE EDUCATION ACTION ITEMS

1. Squadron AE Report due and AE Officer duties at squadron levels

6
 (SER Aerospace Education continued)

a) Your DAE should complete the Wing “End-of-Year” Report and include copies of your
squadron AE survey reports and send all to the SER DCS AE, LTC Dave Garner, and National
Headquarters CAP AE, no later than 28 February. Each squadron should send a copy of their
AE survey and attach any documentation and PR from AE activities completed during this year to
their respective DAE.
Each squadron should have an AE Officer appointed. Squadron Commander assumes duty if
no AE Officer is appointed. Each squadron AE Officer should be assigned to the AE track (215)
and complete the AE Specialty Track Rating System.
b) Each squadron AE Officer should be part of each squadron program presenting an aerospace
education briefing and/or instruction leading to completion of the AEPSM AE examination.
(Yeager Award)
d) Each squadron should develop a plan to work with area schools to act as a resource to
promote aerospace education in the community. (See 2a)
e) Each squadron AE Officer should communicate with DAE at Wing Headquarters as to all
community and squadron AE activity. Wing DAE should communicate all Wing AE activities to
SER DCS AE.
f) For more information and survey forms see your Aerospace Education Officer’s Handbook,
Pamphlet 15, Dec 99. Also forms are on the National CAP Website

3. SER and National AE activities

National Aerospace Education Officer Staff College

The fourth annual National Aerospace Officer Staff School will be held July 21-35, 2005 at the
Pensacola Navy Air Station, FL. This school is directed toward state DAE’s and their Internal and
External AE officers at wing level to start with. The focus of the school is on making your job
easier to do by educating the DAE on resources available. The instruction and seminars will be a
combined effort between CAP and NASA. More details are on the SER AE Website at
www.capae.info. Applications are being accepted now.

Aerospace Excellence Program

The Civil Air Patrol is offering a very popular program free to its members that involves doing hands-on
aviation and space-related activities with students. It is called AEX, and the acronym stands for
“Aerospace Education Excellence”. Teachers receive an 80 page, full-color book that features over 20
national standards-based aerospace hands-on activities. Once you get the AEX book, all you have
to do is complete six activities by Apr 30 (three of the six activities must be from the AEX curriculum.
Substitute activities require copies of lesson plans to be attached to the report form.) In addition, one
two-hour field experience (space day, trip to the airport, museum, etc) must be completed to earn a
beautiful 11 X 14 wooden plaque plus color certificates for your students. The activities are designed to
fit into any curriculum. All of the projects featured in AEX I (K-5 book) or AEX II (6-12 book) are very
“teacher-friendly” and involve readily available, low-cost materials. Contact Joan Emerson at
jemerson@capnhq.gov or 334-953-4239 if you would like a brochure mailed to you. SCHOOL SIGNUP
ENDS OCT 31. (Note: CAP units may participate in the AEX program from Jan – Jun.) Download unit
brochure here. CAP UNIT SIGNUP ENDED DEC 31. E-mail for the program may be sent to
AEX@capnhq.gov .

4. SER leads the Nation in AE activity

Congratulations to Florida Wing as the top AE Wing in the Nation the past three years!
Third year in a row for Florida Wing as top AE Wing in the Nation!

I have state reports from FL and Mississippi at this time 2-21-05

We have 70% of all of the AEM membership nation-wide in the SER. Tennessee has the highest
number of AEM members in the nation. Florida is second.

7
(SER Aerospace Education continued)

We have 70% of all AE Teacher workshops. CAP plays an active part in many of these teacher
workshops.
The SER usually dominates in CAP AE Awards, both Brewer and top wings in AE.
We have much to be proud of in our region. We must all work as a team in SER to continue our
AE leadership position and improve in all areas.

SER CADET PROGRAMS

Submitted by Pete Norris, Lt Col, SER Director, Cadet Programs

CADET CORNER

Southeast Region Cadet Competition

As of this edition of the Newsletter, the Cadet Program staff is still waiting for confirmation from the Air
Force Liaison Office on the date and location. The dates of 22-24 April and 29 April – 1 May seem to be
the highest probability. As soon as the confirmation is received, Wing Commanders and Wing Directors
of Cadet Programs will be notified.

Make Encampments a Great Time to Remember

It is almost March and Wings are preparing for Encampment. Staff selections are being announced,
schedules are being developed and activity options researched. Older cadets are telling stories to
younger cadets about their first encampment and all of its activities. The encampment is a highlight in the
early part of a cadet’s CAP experience, many times setting the standard that the cadet will use to
measure other activities and may form friendships that will last a life time. But sometimes, an immature or
ill prepared cadet may have a horrible experience. It is the responsibility of Squadron staff and parents to
evaluate the maturity of each cadet that will be going to their “Doolie” or “Basic” encampment. Some
younger cadets have a difficult time with separation from family and the disruption of their normal routine.
Others that have been to resident camps, such as church or scouts, find that they are not prepared for the
flow of a CAP, military type encampment. Each cadet is an individual, and it is important that the
Squadron staff, Senior Member and Cadet, along with parents, help prepare each cadet, mentally and
physically, to meet the challenges of this outstanding opportunity for personal and professional growth.

SER COMMUNICATIONS

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

Last week I received a copy of a letter from Gen Wheless regarding the safeguarding of our frequencies.
To follow the request to eliminate all radio frequencies from the public view, I have started with Col.
Sharkey’s EF Johnson radio putting every repeater in the Southeast Region and those in the adjoining
Wings in the unused zones. All holders of the Johnson radios will have to send them in to me once we
complete the programming on the first one so that they will all be the same. Our intention is to program by
Wing, each repeater by city name so you will not have to carry paperwork showing the designators and
tones, then start looking for them in the 16 zones in the radio.

As an example, one zone is all Florida Wing repeaters and all the operator will have to do is dial in the
closest city name and they will have the tones and frequencies preset for them. I am putting them in
alphabetically so there will be no problem in locating each site. Every zone will be identified by the Wing
abbreviation.

Hopefully the first one will be completed and shipped by 1 March to our Region Commander so that he
will be on the air. The Tait radios will follow as soon as all of the E.F. Johnson radios are completed.

8
(SER Communications continued)

NEW FREQUENCIES WILL REQUIRE NEW ANTENNAS.

Over the next few years, CAP will be moving to new VHF frequencies which will require wide band
antennas. Most of the “glass mount” type antennas will not efficiently cover the job which will be required.
There are a few new antennas out on the market and the Communications team is now in testing out two
of them. We hope to get an adapter to put one in service on 94004 (Southeast CAP 104) in the next few
weeks. So if you are looking for a new antenna, get in touch with one of us and we will try our best to
steer you towards the antenna that will work for you.

COMMUNICATIONS EXERCISE CONTINUES:

The SER Communications exercise which was suspended in December will be reactivated on
Wednesday March 30th and run for at least five days. During this time period, we will complete the
simulated attack on highways and structures. We had a large number of communicators say it was good
training so let’s get everybody involved this time and pull in those VHF operators as well. We do have a
number of VHF stations set to initiate traffic on their local nets.

Make sure that you have those pens and paper handy, or follow the lead of SECAP 4 and put a cassette
tape recorder next to your radio. It really helps to forward formal traffic when you have every word on
tape. Also the CAPF 4 is very helpful as a guide for traffic handling.

A special get well message to Lt Col Jan Kendrick. She underwent major surgery and has finally been
released from the hospital after a lengthy stay. Maj. Vinson and Lt. Stokesberry have been helping out
with the roster and have it pretty well ready for submission to the radio operators.

SER DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Submitted by Jorge Del Rio, Lt Col, SER Disaster Relief Operations Officer

1Lt John Moore, Southeast Region Assistant Disaster Preparedness Officer was named the Brevard
County Deputy Sheriff of the year for 2004. Deputy John Moore of the Cape Canaveral Precinct has
been selected as the Deputy of the Year for 2004 for his actions to save the life of a fire victim on April 07,
2004.

At approximately 2200 hours on April 7th, 2004, Deputy Moore responded to a report of an apartment fire
at 211 Caroline Street in Cape Canaveral.

Arriving first at the scene, Deputy Moore had no specific information regarding the occupancy of the
affected apartment and as he approached, he could easily see the smoke and flames billowing from this
residence. Not willing to risk the possibility that people may be trapped inside, and disregarding his own
personal safety, Deputy Moore entered the apartment to indeed find a victim lying on the floor, completely
overcome by smoke. John quickly dragged this victim down the stairs and away from the fire area so that
medical treatment could be administered upon arrival. Deputy Moore’s actions on that day were above
and beyond the call of duty and there is no greater tribute to his character than to have risked his life to
save another.

1Lt Lieutenant Moore, is also a member of a Disaster Medical Assistance Team, where he serves as a
Security Specialist/Communications Specialist. During the last year Lieutenant Moore was deployed as
part of the relief effort for the Hurricanes that affected the State Of Florida.

SER OPERATIONS

Submitted by David E. Lehtonen, Lt Col, SER DCS Operations

Last month we discussed the importance of the aircraft maintenance officer (AMO) to his/her squadron
and to the wing. This month, another crucial topic – Airworthiness – will be reviewed from the pilot
responsibility standpoint and to see what Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations require of the pilot in
command (PIC).
9
(SER Operations continued)

As the pilot of an aircraft you are about to launch into the blue, determining the airworthiness of that
aircraft can be a complex and time consuming task. You as PIC are responsible to ensure that your
aircraft is in an airworthy condition before each flight, as pointed out in FAR 91.7, Civil Aircraft
Airworthiness. This regulation states “no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy
condition.” Further, it requires the PIC discontinue the flight when un-airworthy mechanical, electrical, or
structural conditions occur. In addition, FAR 91.403, General, goes further. It states that “the owner or
operator of an aircraft is primarily responsible for maintaining that aircraft in an airworthy condition.” So,
what does all this mean to you, the CAP pilot who is ready to perform his/her preflight-inspection.

Along with the AROW documents – airworthiness certificate, registration, operating limitations, and weight
and balance data – the PIC must insure that six things in the aircraft’s maintenance records are current.
This information can be found in the aircraft information file (AIF), along with the aircraft flight log and the
discrepancy log. These six things are:
1. Aircraft annual/100 hour inspection (FAR 91.409(a)(1) / (b)).
2. ELT battery date (FAR 91.207(c)).
3. ELT annual inspection (FAR 91.207(d)).
4. Transponder test within 24 months (FAR 91.413(a)).
5. Altimeter / Mode C test within 24 months (FAR 91.411(a)(1)).
6. Maintenance and discrepancy records and records of compliance with all applicable
Airworthiness Directives (FAR 91.417).

Other things to look for are any open discrepancies on the aircraft that may adversely affect the airplane
airworthiness. What about inoperative equipment? Is it properly placarded in accordance with FAR
91.213(d) or does the aircraft have a minimum equipment list (MEL) and letter of authorization from the
Flight Standards District Office in the aircraft. Taken together, these two documents constitute a
supplemental type certificate (STC) for that particular aircraft (FAR 91.213(a).

Now that you have determined that the aircraft is airworthy and legal to fly from an FAA standpoint, you
are now ready to go outside and perform the rest of the preflight using the aircraft manufacturer’s
checklist. Some Wings in the Region have a summary sheet on the front of the AIF showing the dates of
when the above items need to be addressed next, making your review task that much easier. Complete
your preflight and fly safe – and legal.

SER COUNTERDRUG
Submitted by Ed Kessler, Capt, SER CDDA

1st AIR FORCE DELEGATES HOMELAND SECURITY MISSIONS TO SOUTHEAST REGION

The specialized and long standing support that the
Southeast Region has provided to the 1st AF in
response to South East Air Defense Sector
missions continues without pause. The most highly
publicized mission was the intercept operation

documented and aired by CNN in its “Defending

America” series during the highly viewed pre-
inauguration news cycle on January 18th 2005.

10
(SER Counterdrug continued)

However, examples of these USAF homeland security assignments to SER Counterdrug extend back for
quite some time within our operational area. As a result, numerous and unique missions have been the
hallmark of our special partnership with these highly skilled USAF air and ground crews within our air
defense sector that extends from Brownsville, TX to Norfolk, VA, to include the Virgin Islands. This
successful team consists of aircrews from Southeast Region staff and wings within the area: Alabama,
Mississippi, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Texas, Louisiana & South Carolina who have repeatedly risen
to the call under the direction of Lt Col Bilotto, SEADS Coordinator. The new Memorandum of
Understanding also encourages this support, and is significant because it recognized the value of
leveraging CAP assets to include assignment of CAP personnel to perform augmentation of duties
alongside personnel in the Combined Air Operations Center at Tyndall, AFB. This partnership has in turn
allowed for these missions to evolve. The mission’s profiles now include multi-agency interaction with our
targets, and have included critical infrastructures over land, requiring a timely and precise response. We
also want to commend the Kentucky Wing, for their invaluable assistance during the above high profile
mission covered by CNN. During the mission Lt Col Bilotto performed communication duties using an
innovative KYWG aircraft, which was specially modified with a Satellite phone and dialer through its audio
panel, which is similar to the new C182s being delivered this year. The Satellite phones will replace the
UHF PRC-113s currently in use for these operations in the very near future and will be a tremendous
enhancement to the operations. The new C182s with their enhanced glass cockpits, the GA-8s, the
Archer systems and of course the specialized CAP personnel required to make it all happen, provides us
a very unique opportunity to continue to serve the USAF and our Nation in these vital missions over the
years to come.

SER INSPECTOR
GENERAL

Submitted by R.E. Tonkinson, Lt Col, SER IG/Finance

ATTORNEY'S ADVICE -- NO CHARGE! Read this and make a copy for your files in case you need to
refer to it someday. Maybe we should all take some of his advice!

A corporate attorney sent the following out to the employees in his company.

1. The next time you order checks have only your initials (instead of first name) and last name put on
them. If someone takes your checkbook, they will not know if you sign your checks with just your initials or
your first name, but your bank will know how you sign your checks.

2. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put "PHOTO ID REQUIRED".

3. When you are writing checks to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account
number on the "For" line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest
of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check
processing channels won't have access to it.

4. Put your work phone # on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a PO Box, use that
instead of your home address. If you do not have a PO Box, use your work address. Never have your
SS# printed on your checks. (DUH!) You can add it if it is necessary. But if you have it printed, anyone
can get it.

5. Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card,
etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call
and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. I also carry a photocopy of my passport when I travel
either here or abroad. We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed on us in stealing a
name, address, Social Security number, credit cards.

Unfortunately, I, an attorney, have firsthand knowledge because my wallet was stolen last month. Within
a week, the thieve(s) ordered an expensive monthly cell phone package, applied for a VISA credit card,

11
(SER Inspector General continued)

had a credit line approved to buy a Gateway computer, received a PIN number from DMV to change my
driving record information online, and more. But here's some critical information to limit the damage in
case this happens to you or someone you know:

1. We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately. But the key is having the toll free
numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them.

2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This
proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation
(if there ever is one).

But here's what is perhaps most important of all: (I never even thought to do this.)

3. Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and
Social Security number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an
application for credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks
your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new
credit.

By the time I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done.
There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves' purchases, none of which I knew about
before placing the alert. Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my
wallet away This weekend (someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them dead in their tracks.

Now, here are the numbers you always need to contact about your wallet, etc., has been stolen:
1.) Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
2.) Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742
3.) Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
4.) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

We pass along jokes on the Internet; we pass along just about everything. But if you are willing to pass
this information along, it could really help someone that you care about.

SER FINANCE

Submitted by Bill Ferguson, Lt Col, SER Finance Director

Mrs. Meredith Mann of National Headquarters will be in South Florida on 22 February 2005 for a
compliance inspection of the Southeast Region financial records. She is a very gracious lady, whose
valuable assistance to various Wings and Regions has always been of great benefit to the Civil Air Patrol.

Mrs. Mann is from an Air Force family, and has traveled extensively with her parents. Her dad is Major
General Marvin S. “Scott” Mayes, who is the Commander, 1st Air Force, and Commander Continental
U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region, Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida.

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

PROMOTIONS AROUND THE REGION

Coombs, Johnnie Lt Col MS-001

Haines, Collins Lt Col FL-424
Henderson, Lee Lt Col FL-376
Landry, Austin Lt Col AL-127
Sanders, Jr., Joseph Lt Col AL-106

12
(SER Personnel continued)
SER STAFF FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS
Lt Col Pete Norris 14 March
Lt Col Pat Faunt 17 March
Lt Col Ernie Bilotto 18 March
Lt Col Ronald Greene 19 March
Lt Col Walter Bevan 27 March
Capt Hugh Stewart 27 March

PLEASE JOIN US IN WISHING THEM A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

THIS AND THAT

Submitted by Roy Gibbens, Col, SER Assistant IG, MSWG

Since last April I have been working to establish an Air Force Association Chapter here in Meridian, MS.
As of last week our work has paid off as a New AFA Chapter 376 was chartered with me as the first
president.

Our new chapter will make four for the State of Mississippi, the other three are in Jackson and support the
Air Guard unit there, another in Columbus which supports Columbus AFB and the third supports Kessler
AFB on the coast. We have the Air Guard 186th Air Refueling Wing in Meridian and we have never had
an AFA Chapter to give it local support so I was asked to establish a unit last year. Normally,
National requires only ten new members, however the State director wanted us to get twenty new
members as all of the local members were assigned to the Jackson Chapter, about thirty-five people, and
he did not want them transferred to Meridian. Anyway we have met all requirements for a Chapter and we
will be able to support the local Guard Units.

The AFA supports the Civil Air Patrol Cadets, our Aerospace Teacher Programs, and Award
Scholarships. The AFA publishes the "Air Force" monthly magazine and newsletters on the web. With the
Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) coming up we need to give all the support we can to our local
facilities. We need to support the families of those called to active duty and help when we can. So you
can see that we will be involved as we get better organized and attract new members.

We will also be working with the Navy League Chapter here to support both the Air Guard at Key Field
and Naval Air Station Meridian at McCain Field.
___________________________________________________________________________________

Florida Falcon Ranger School

(Extension of Hawk Mountain Ranger School)
Submitted by Eileen Parker, Col, SER CV

2005 Graduating Class

Pennsylvania Wing Staff along with Gen
Pineda, Col Parker and Col Martin

13
(This and That continued)

On 02 Jan 05, the Florida Flacon Ranger School (extension of Hawk Mountain) had its first graduating
class of students. Invited guests for the ceremony included Br Gen Tony Pineda, Nat'l Vice Commander,
Col Eileen Parker, Southeast Region Vice Commander, and Col Joe Martin, Florida Wing Commander.

17 staff members of the Pennsylvania Hawk Mountain Ranger School gave up their holiday break to drive
the 22 hours to Florida to lend their expertise to the Florida Falcon Ranger School staff. For a first time
event, up against a SER Encampment and a FL RCLS, the school still had a great turnout. Seven days of
learning ES, and two actual missions, one being on New Year's Eve.

Thanks go to the National Guard, Bell South, and Miami Fire Department for their generous donations of
grills, generators, light towers, and even a fire truck to provide water for showers.

This promises to be the Hawk Mountain of the South.

SER SAFETY
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

Submitted by
FLORIDA WING
Commander: Col Joe Martin

Submitted by John Brennan, Lt Col, Florida Legislative Squadron, Florida Wing

The Governor has declared April 12-18, "Florida Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Week". Since
this is the week of Sun 'n Fun, it might be an excellent chance to promote CAP and to get more publicity
to this important mission.
14
(Florida Wing continued)

This is the text for the Governor's Proclamation for “Florida Civil Air Patrol, Aviation Week”.

TEXT:
Civil Air Patrol Aviation Week

WHEREAS, Civil Air Patrol, a civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force, is dedicated to
volunteer public service in the interest of the community, the state and the national welfare; and

WHEREAS, the more than three thousand members of the Florida Wing are prepared to give of
their time and resources for the benefit of their fellow Floridians through aerial and ground Search and
Rescue missions, through humanitarian and mercy flights, through counter-drug operations, through
damage assessment surveys and many other unselfish acts in the time of human emergency; and

WHEREAS, the Civil Air Patrol volunteer members conduct an effective program of aerospace
education and training for its members, student bodies and the general public; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Wing provides an outstanding program of leadership training and
development and career motivation to its teenage cadet members; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jeb Bush, Governor of the state of Florida, do hereby extend greetings
and best wishes to all observing Civil Air Patrol Week.

GEORGIA WING
Commander: Col Don Greene

Submitted by David E. Blubaugh, Lt Col, Vice Commander, Georgia Wing

Safety - A Necessary Way of Life in CAP and a State of Mind

In my 23 years in the US Air Force, both active duty and reserves, there was no single priority that was
higher than SAFETY. We were taught from day one that SAFETY must be a state of mind and that each
and every person must stay constantly focused on it in order to prevent accidents and incidents.
Attention to safety and safety training never ended. At Delta, where I have now worked for nearly 25
years, safety is the number one highest priority in our operation. It is clearly stated and constantly
reinforced in everything any employee does because it only takes one little slip up to kill or injure
someone or cause millions of dollars in damage to equipment.

Having a SAFETY ATTITUDE and constant safety awareness is critical in CAP. It is incumbent upon
each and every one of us to think safety in every thing we do and, frankly, we really do not need
members who will not adopt this attitude. It doesn’t matter if we are dealing with flight operations,
vehicles, or just walking. We must constantly emphasis safety and we must motivate our people to
analyze and manage risk.

Think back on your life a minute. Have you ever climbed onto a ladder to paint something or screw a
picture hanger into the wall? Have you ever climbed up to the top couple of steps right after thinking “I
really shouldn’t be doing this but it will just take a second?” Yea, you probably have! The last time I did
this was about 14 years ago and it resulted in a broken wrist and my being out of work for three months.
The wrist has never been the same and as I get older, it will continue to bother me more and more.

Have you ever been slicing an apple or an orange and just as you were in an awkward position with the
knife, thought to yourself “this probably isn’t a good way to do this... if the knife slips, I am going to cut
myself?” Yea, I thought you probably had! Yes, I’ve cut myself, too, despite the fact that I consider
myself extremely safety conscious.

The point I am making here is that when you think this way, when you feel this way, you are thinking
logically and analyzing risk. BUT, you need to also MANAGE the risk by stopping what you are doing at
this point, re-access what you are doing, and then proceed to find a new way to do it that is positively
15
(Georgia Wing continued)

safe. Yes, you have probably heard it... this is what we now call Risk Management - and, it just makes
sense.

One more note - As a CAP member, if you feel somebody or something at one of our activities is unsafe,
it is your moral and legal obligation to say something about it immediately and do something about it.
Stop the operation and talk to the person in charge. Don’t let an accident happen because of inattention
or inaction on your part! Nothing we do in CAP, absolutely nothing, is so important that it should take
priority over safety.

Submitted by Cassandra Van Doren, 1Lt, Moody AFB Composite, Georgia Wing
Written by Jennifer Gerhardt, 1Lt, Moody Air Force Base 347 RQW/PA

LOCAL TEEN SETS SIGHTS ON NATIONAL SECURITY

Cadet Michael Van Doren, son of Lt. Col. Michael Van Doren,
347th Mission Support Group deputy commander, was selected to
participate in a youth leadership forum Feb. 8 to 13 in Washington,
D.C.

The National Youth Leadership Forum on Defense, Intelligence,

and Diplomacy is based on actual world events, allowing
participants to learn from previous leaders and develop a
perspective and tenacity unique to upcoming generations of
leaders. Students also learn about how the U.S. plans for peace
and prepares for crisis, in addition to meeting leaders from key nd
Pictured on the left is C/2 Lt Michael A. Van
agencies. Doren II, on the right is Lt Col (AD and CAP)
Michael A. Van Doren.
“I’m really looking forward to the defense portion,” said Michael, who participates in Moody’s Civil Air
Patrol squadron and his school’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. “I think it will be the most
interesting (part).”

Participants are nominated to attend a program by educators, organization advisors, alumni, and
participating institutions or through classroom surveys. Program participants all demonstrate strong
academic abilities, leadership and a strong interest in the career field being studied. Michael will join
almost 400 high school junior and seniors from across the United States at the forum.

“Through specialized simulations, the National Youth Leadership Forum on Defense, Intelligence and
Diplomacy strives to put students like Michael Van Doren in the driver’s seat of building a strategy that will
uphold our national security,” said Donna Synder, executive director of NYLF. “The combination of
interacting with professionals and with other students in this setting ensures that leaders are being
developed so the future of our country will remain very bright.”

The NYLFDID six-day program introduces students to challenging careers in national security,
intelligence, the diplomatic corps and more. Students participate in thought-provoking question and
answer sessions with civilian policy makers and senior military officers, who provide insights into current
issues and discuss the strategies that helped them succeed.

During the course of the forum, students take part in a national security strategy simulation that draws on
their program experiences and teamwork. They employ a crisis decision-making process similar to that
employed by the nation's top policy makers, giving them an opportunity to use critical thinking, leadership
and public speaking skills to tackle the complexity of national decision-making.

In the past, the leadership forum has visited government institutions and military installations, to include
the Department of State, the Defense Intelligence Agency and the U.S. Naval Academy. Since being
founded in 1992, more than 100,000 students have taken advantage of the leadership forum’s programs.

“I’m proud of his selection to attend,” said Lt. Col. Van Doren. “This is an opportunity for him to broaden
his perspective on national issues. I always try to find new things for him to learn and this forum is an
excellent program to do that. I wish everyone had an opportunity like this.”

16
 SER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

18-19 March 2005 Alabama Wing Conference, Birmingham, AL

22-24 April 2005 (tentative) Southeast Region Cadet Competition (more info to follow)
23-24 April 2005 Georgia Wing Conference, Warner-Robins AFB
29 April – 01 May Mississippi Wing Conference, Meridian Naval Air Station
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
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

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

17