Submitted photo

Lt Col Lee Henderson, Marco Island CAP Squadron Commander

Submitted photo

Lt Col Lee Henderson, Marco Island CAP Squadron Commander

STORY TOOLS

• E-mail story
• Comments
• iPod friendly
• Printer friendly

More Columns

• Guest commentary: Another job well done
• Guest commentary: Fast facts on the electric service discussion
• Guest commentary: Being misled by misinformation

Share and Enjoy [?]

“In 2007, the Marco Island CAP Squadron expanded membership, increased training for improved mission capabilities, and performed added community services,” stated Lt Col. Lee Henderson, Squadron Commander. “While the U.S. Air Force provides the local CAP Squadron with its aircraft and other key equipment, the annual operating funds must be raised locally. Thanks to the community, donations provide the needed funds.”

This Civil Air Patrol Squadron serves the needs of Marco Island, Isle of Capri, the Collier Blvd. 951 corridor, Port of the Isles, Everglades City, Chokoloskee, and the 10,000 islands area.

But beyond the funds and volunteer hours provided by our membership, local contributions are the primary resource that supports the Civil Air Patrol Squadron. These funds fuel the airplane for coastal patrols and training missions, fund maintenance and upgrades for our equipment (radios, antennas, headsets, GPS, life raft, life vests, etc.). They also defray costs associated with the CAP hangar (including upkeep of the 6000-square-foot facility, ground rent, utilities, insurance, office equipment and supplies), and breathe life into the active Cadet program and its activities.

CAP operations: Supporting our communities

The Marco Island CAP Squadron has 60 very active members, all volunteers who contribute their own funds, time, and resources.

Locally CAP air crews fly over the served area each day, weather permitting, looking for stranded boaters, lost kayakers, activities which might constitute a breach of homeland security, and other indications of need or distress.

Whenever a satellite picks up an emergency locator signal in our area (EPIRB on a boat or ELT from an aircraft), the Squadron gets a call from the Air Force Rescue and Recovery Center to dispatch the aircraft. Utilizing radio direction-finding equipment, the plane searches for and locates the signal source, and then guides a ground team, the Coast Guard or other first responders to the site, where they can provide on-site rescue. In the case of a false alarm, the owner is located to shut down the signal.

While in the air CAP always monitors Marine Channel 16. Listen for “CAP Flight … ” and if you need assistance, call.

New in 2007, the Marco Island Civil Air Patrol, in cooperation with the K5MI Marco Island Ham Club, conducted two FCC amateur radio license courses, free of tuition and open to the public. The training included hands-on operation of VHF amateur radio equipment and actual radio contact with other seasoned “hams” (licensed amateur radio operators). The classes were fully subscribed, especially since the present FCC regulations no longer require Morse Code proficiency.

Expanding the mission: Disaster relief and homeland security

In 2007, an agreement was signed with Collier County to provide services as needed, such as fire reconnaissance and damage assessment. Searching for wild fires is expected to be an important task in 2008 as they are much easier to quell when they are small.

The primary mission: After hurricanes or other disasters, the CAP Squadron works closely with State of Florida and Collier County Emergency Management to provide support missions, damage assessments, and photographic sorties.

CAP is uniquely positioned to conduct operations in support of homeland security initiatives. With decades of operational experience, CAP provides airborne assets throughout the nation, all manned by mission-ready personnel who have demonstrated capability to work with federal, military, state and local agencies across the spectrum of homeland security.

Cadet program: Responsible citizens through aviation and leadership

The Civil Air Patrol builds strong citizens for the future by providing leadership opportunities, initial flight training, military discipline, physical training, technical and career education, and scholarships to young men and women, ages 12 to 21.

In 2007, the cadet program increased and currently there are 16 local young people active in the Marco Island CAP Cadet Squadron. In addition to participating with other cadets from around the country in encampments and other training activities, the cadets meet every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the CAP hangar, Marco Island Airport.

Through local support, the Marco Island CAP Squadron has been in operation for over 25 years, providing vital community services to Southwest Florida. Donations to CAP are tax deductible.

For further Information, contact Lt Col Richard C. Niess, CAP – Public Affairs Officer, Ph 239-530-0786.