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Osprey Composite Squadron converts flight theory into practive

Squadron constructs model sailplane

By Maj Rick Frattali, CAP
Aerospace Education Officer, Osprey Composite Squadron

4/9/2012–Dundalk, Md.–In order to give cadets hands-on application, the Osprey Composite Squadron in Dundalk, Maryland is constructing a 2-meter model sailplane. With the help of an Air Force Association (AFA) grant, the cadets are learning classic model construction techniques to build the airframe, wing, and stabilizer components. They will install radio-control servos for rudder and elevator control. The model will then be covered and decorated to resemble a full-sized CAP glider. The squadron expects this project to continue into the summer months of 2012.

Osprey Squadron has developed an excellent relationship with the Radio Control Modelers of Baltimore (RCMB). With RCMB guidance, cadets learned about Radio Controlled (RC) aircraft. They are receiving “stick time” with experienced RCMB pilots. The squadron established an RC helicopter demonstration team, and the RCMB will support the squadron when the sailplane is ready to take flight. The squadron is excited about enhancing the aerospace program with model building, radio control technology and hands-on experience.

Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, is a nonprofit organization with more than 61,000 members nationwide, operating a fleet of 550 aircraft. CAP, in its Air Force auxiliary role, performs 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and was credited by the AFRCC with saving 54 lives in fiscal year 2011. Its volunteers also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. The members play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to nearly 27,000 young people currently participating in the CAP cadet program. CAP received the World Peace Prize in 2011 and has been performing missions for America for 70 years. CAP also participates in Wreaths Across America, an initiative to remember, honor and teach about the sacrifices of U.S. military veterans. Visit www.gocivilairpatrol.com or www.capvolunteernow.com for more information.

More than 1,500 members of CAP serve in Maryland. Last fiscal year wing members flew 42 search and rescue missions and were credited with 31 finds. For more information about Civil Air Patrol in Maryland visit Maryland Wing at www.mdcap.org.

Osprey Composite Squadron meets every Tuesday evening, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at the American Legion Hall, Post #38, 3300 Dundalk Ave, Dundalk MD 21222.