100th Cadet Earns Private Pilot Certificate Through Cadet Wings

Cadet Chief Master Sgt. Andrew Wilson of the Texas Wing’s David Lee (Tex) Hill Composite Squadron became the 100th cadet to earn his private pilot certificate through CAP’s Cadet Wings program.

The Fourth Of July at San Marcos Regional Airport was extra festive for Wilson, 18, who received his certificate following his check ride with an FAA examiner. The achievement comes just days before reporting to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

“It was a good day,” Wilson said. “I’m excited to have it done, and for what comes next.” He hopes to eventually become a military aviator, with his goals leaning toward flying jets.

The Cadet Wings Program is two and a half years old, and funded by the US Air Force.

“We commend Cadet Wilson on his achievement, service to his community, and to our nation,” said Lt. Gen. Kirk Pierce, commander, Headquarters, 1st Air Force (Air Forces Northern). “CAP is a Total Force partner, and the U.S. Air Force needs people like Cadet Wilson to do its mission.”

“My heartfelt congratulations to Cadet Wilson, our 100th Cadet Wings program graduate,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Smith. “He has accomplished a wonderful personal goal; more so, he marks an important milestone in a critically important program that Civil Air Patrol has, thanks to the Air Force’s investment.”

Over the past three fiscal years, the Air Force has contributed about $1.8 million to fund Cadet Wings.

“Their investment is paying dividends in a wide range of initiatives that help inspire youth toward STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields and aviation,” Smith said. “The centerpiece of the initiative, of course, is the Cadet Wings program. Providing funding to help our cadets earn their private pilot certificates is a dream come true for our youth. It helps to launch them toward career goals they could previously only dream about.”

FMI: https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/