Cedar City Mustang Composite Squadron’s Annual Awards Banquet Is Tonight

The Cedar City Mustang Composite Squadron is gearing up for its annual awards banquet, a celebratory event that brings together cadets and their families. Scheduled to take place at 6:30 PM tonight. The venue for this grand occasion is the prestigious Great Hall in the Alumni Conference Center on the campus of Southern Utah University.

This awards banquet serves as an occasion to recognize and honor the achievements of the cadets over the past year. The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Air Force Association "Civil Air Patrol Outstanding Squadron Cadet of the Year Award." This prestigious accolade will be bestowed upon a deserving cadet, with the distinguished Lt. Col. Andres Wesemann, Vice Commander of the Utah Wing CAP and a lifetime member of the Air Force Association, presenting the award. Lt. Col. Wesemann, a retired Air Force pilot, adds a touch of honor and expertise to the ceremony.

The festivities will also include a captivating yearbook presentation, showcasing the squadron's active participation in various Civil Air Patrol events throughout the year. Notably, cadets who have achieved rank advancements will be acknowledged, adding a personal touch to the celebration. Furthermore, the coveted Gen Billy Mitchell award will be granted to a cadet who has attained the rank of Cadet Second Lieutenant in the Civil Air Patrol.

Maj. Jonathan Karpel, the Commander of the Cedar City Mustang Composite Squadron, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, describing it as a "fun opportunity for the cadets to dress up and look sharp in front of their families." Maj. Karpel highlighted the significance of the awards banquet as a major highlight for the squadron, emphasizing the sense of pride and accomplishment it brings to the cadets and their families.

The Cedar City Mustang Composite Squadron looks forward to a memorable evening of recognition, camaraderie, and celebration, reinforcing the values and achievements of the Civil Air Patrol and its dedicated cadets.

Founded in 1941, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a vital civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force with a rich history and a noble mission. Initially established to aid in wartime efforts, CAP's mission has evolved to encompass emergency services, aerospace education, and cadet programs. As a crucial component of America's total force, CAP plays a pivotal role in disaster response, search and rescue missions, and community outreach. Committed to developing future leaders, CAP's cadet programs instill aerospace knowledge, leadership skills, and a sense of civic responsibility. Today, CAP continues to soar as a force for good, exemplifying service, integrity, and excellence.