ACE BASIN CADET EARNS MILESTONE ACHIEVEMENT

Cadet Staff Sergeant (C/SSgt) Kaytie Schweitzer has achieved her first Milestone Award and was recognized during a promotion ceremony Tuesday evening, September 27. C/SSgt Schweitzer is a member of the ACE Basin Composite Squadron, which meets weekly at Cottageville Park in Cottageville on Tuesdays at 6 pm. 

C/SSgt Schweitzer's interest in aviation and desire to become a pilot first drew her to join Civil Air Patrol's Cadet Program in August 2021. In just over a year as a cadet, she has been awarded the Spirit and Attitude Award for her Squadron for 2021, completed Civil Air Patrol Encampment, and has completed numerous activities in aerospace and emergency services. However, this latest achievement is special. 

"The Wright Brothers Milestone is a very important step on a cadet's journey," says Squadron Commander, 1st Lt. Tim Elson. "It marks the first time they are challenged to show real understanding of all they have learned in Civil Air Patrol. It also marks their transition from follower to leader. It is the foundation for the next step on their leadership path."

The Wright Brothers Achievement marks the completion of the learning phase and the beginning of the leadership phase in the Cadet Program. C/SSgt Schweitzer's goals will now expand from focusing solely on her own learning, to also helping other cadets in the Squadron reach their potential. "C/Ssgt Schweitzer is a great example for her fellow cadets. I see her personal growth with every Squadron meeting," Lt. Elson added.

"I want to encourage other cadets to accomplish great things. Don't doubt yourself. Don't give up. Be persistent, and keep moving forward," says C/SSgt Schweitzer. 

The Cadet Program, intended for youth ages 12-18, has already had a profound impact on her life. "Civil Air Patrol has given me so many opportunities," she says. "It's a great learning experience. I'm so grateful for all the people I've met and all the training that has been offered to me."