News

This article highlights the aviation and leadership journey of Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Lt. Col. Jacob Benner, whose first CAP glider orientation flight inspired a passion that evolved into an ambitious pursuit of aviation and service. Through CAP programs such as orientation flights, aerospace education, the Mid-Atlantic Region Col. Roland Butler Powered Flight Academy, and Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Familiarization, Jacob developed his flying skills, earned FAA Private Pilot and Private Pilot-Glider certificates, and expanded his aviation experience through extensive cross-country flying and advanced CAP qualifications. Beyond aviation, he has served in significant leadership roles within Virginia Wing, including Cadet Commander and Cadet Advisory Council Chairman, while also exploring aerospace research through mentorship with the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command Analysis Squadron. His story demonstrates how CAP's combination of aviation opportunities, leadership development, mentorship, and service can transform a single introductory flight into a pathway toward professional aviation, military service, and lifelong personal growth.

WINCHESTER, Va. (August 11, 2026) – Cadet Colonel Kyrieanne Pardue of Winchester was presented the General Carl A. Spaatz Award this month from Brigadier General Richard L. Anderson, CAP, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs.

Members of the Fredericksburg Composite Squadron joined the American Legion, Boy Scouts, and local first responders in Spotsylvania to respectfully retire more than 3,000 unserviceable American flags during a community ceremony on June 13. The event honored the nation's flag in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code while highlighting the importance of civic service, patriotism, and collaboration among community organizations.

Civil Air Patrol's Winchester Composite Squadron has been recognized as both the Virginia Wing’s Squadron of Merit and the Mid-Atlantic Region’s Squadron of Distinction for 2025, earning two of the organization's highest unit honors.

Cadets and senior members provide logistics support, STEM education and emergency services demonstrations in Richmond

Two Hampton Roads Composite Squadron cadets have received top honors from VFW Post 2894, earning recognition for their outstanding accomplishments and service. Read more about their achievement and what it means for the squadron and community.

Virginia Wing's annual Cadet Competition brought together cadets from across the state for a day of challenge, teamwork, and achievement. See who earned top honors and what's next for the winning squadron.

LEESBURG, Va. (April 9, 2026) – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified and approved a new system - the first of its kind in the United States - in August 2025 to provide situational awareness for non-FAA ATC towers. Last month, the Leesburg Executive Airport, home of Virginia Wing’s Leesburg Composite Squadron, announced the system went live in their temporary contract tower controlling Leesburg Executive Airport while its new air traffic control tower is under construction.

NORTH BETHESDA, Md. (March 23, 2026) – Civil Air Patrol cadets from Burke Composite Squadron, located in Springfield, Virginia, competed in CyberPatriot, the Air and Space Force Association's National Youth Cyber Education Program. The team, nicknamed Cyber Monkeys, was one of the eleven All Service teams to compete in the CyberPatriot 18 National Finals held from March 21-23.

WINCHESTER, Va. (Feb. 27, 2026) – Civil Air Patrol’s Winchester Composite Squadron held a formal change of command ceremony last month, marking the transition of leadership from Lt. Col. Jacob Bixler to a new commander. Change of command ceremonies are among the most  significant traditions in Civil Air Patrol, symbolizing continuity of leadership, responsibility, and mission. The ceremonial passing of the unit flag formally transfers that trust from one  commander to the next in the presence of the squadron’s members.