Abilene, Texas (Feb. 13) – Student excitement grows as preparations continue for the first annual Model Rocketry Academy for Abilene Composite Squadron.
The Civil Air Patrol Model Rocketry program allows cadets the opportunity to earn a badge recognizing their accomplishments. According to the activity director, Lieutenant Colonel Jed Taylor, “to earn their badge, cadets must learn and demonstrate their knowledge through four tests, including a safety test, and perform five successful rocket launches and recoveries.”
The lead instructor for the activity, Cadet Second Lieutenant Christopher Potter, described the activity as “a great experience for cadets seeking to learn more about rockets and aerospace!” Potter was also excited about the opportunity for “cadets to earn their Rocketry Badge in just one weekend.” which is, Potter continues, “something that takes most squadrons over a month to accomplish.”
The activity’s organization chart is different from normal Civil Air Patrol terminology. The staff of the activity has organized into Launch Groups and Delta’s. These terms were inspired by the recent reorganization of the United States Space Force into Deltas.
Cadet Staff Sergeant James Kearsing recently assisted in building the initial risk management assessment for the activity and commented on how “tremendously well put together” the activity is. Kearsing continued “The staff are very dedicated to making sure the students succeed, have fun, and stay safe.”
While everyone continues to plan for the weekend-long activity starting on March 4, at Clyde High School in Clyde, Texas, Cadet Second Lieutenant Isaiah McGuire is building in anticipation of the activity. McGuire stated he “can’t wait to meet and work with new people.” McGuire expressed he is most looking forward to making new connections and building his peer network.
While excitement continues to build for the activity, Taylor states there are still 25 slots available for students, and anyone who has earned their Model Rocketry Badge is encouraged to contact the academy if they would like to assist with staff. Registration is through the unit’s website, Abilene.CAP.gov/unit-activities/model-rocketry-academy. Questions regarding the activity may be directed to mra@AbileneCAP.org. The unit will be posting pictures and announcements about the activity through social media on Facebook and Instagram @AbileneCAP.