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Virginia Wing Civil Air Patrol Welcomes New Commander

April 15, 2021

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RICHMOND, Virginia –The Virginia Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), changed leadership Saturday, April 10 during the wing’s annual conference. In the time-honored change of command ceremony, Col Elizabeth A. Sydow, CAP assumed command from Colonel Dean E. Gould, CAP. 

Col Gould faithfully served as the wing’s commander through a four-year command tour from 2017 to 2021. During this period, the wing was highly successful accomplishing CAP’s  Congressionally chartered missions of Cadet Programs, Emergency Services and Aerospace Education. The Virginia Senate issued a Resolution recognizing Colonel Gould for his service and leadership to both the Virginia Wing and the Commonwealth. He was recognized with a Distinguished Service Award highlighting his successful tenure.  Under his leadership, the wing continued to produce high-caliber cadets, supported local aviation and veteran events in the community, as well as sent multiple members to participate in several disaster-relief and other real-world missions, responding when needed and called.  

Col Elizabeth Sydow has filled a wide array of leadership positions during her 42 years in CAP.  Joining as a cadet in 1978, Col Sydow progressed through the cadet program earning the General Carl A. Spaatz Award in 1987, CAP’s highest youth program award.  She has served in a variety of positions at the wing level including chief of staff and most recently as Vice Commander since 2017. She also served as a cadet programs officer, squadron deputy commander for cadets and squadron commander in four different wings (states). She received an Exceptional Service Award in recognition of her accomplishments in Virginia Wing and was recognized with a Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her service as the National Diversity Officer. Col Sydow is the first female commander of Virginia Wing. 

“As a wing, we will continue our missions of aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services while supporting the training and needs of our members,” shared Col Sydow.  “I’m excited about where the wing is heading and I look forward to serving with you for the next three years.” 

 

For More Information:

1st Lt Heather Heppding, CAP

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