MILWAUKEE, WI - Milwaukee Composite Squadron #5 and Timmerman Composite Squadron worked together in forming a Color Guard and Drill Team, marching in the downtown Milwaukee Veteran’s Day Parade on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008.  A total of 18 cadets and 6 senior members participated in the parade, which ended at the War Memorial along Lake Michigan’s lakefront where the USS Freedom was docked. It was a cold, damp day, so the crowds were thin, but nonetheless, it was a wonderful opportunity to salute those who served in our Armed Forces. 

The USS Freedom is the first ship of its kind in the Navy fleet.  It is a “stealth” ship and from first glance, looks very odd.  Not many were afforded the opportunity to get up close to the new ship, but Capt Kondziella was able to secure the opportunity for the Civil Air Patrol group to not only get up close to the strange looking ship and be able to take pictures, but they were allowed on deck.  It was a great reward for the cadets who had to brave the cold, windy, and drizzly day and it was an unexpected surprise.

Another benefit was the attention drawn to the Civil Air Patrol (CAP).  It was evident throughout the parade and after, that people either knew what CAP is and does, or asked where they could find out more information.  It is a great recruiting tool that only costs time and effort.  People are impressed with a large group of cadets who are well groomed and mannered, and who look sharp in those uniforms. One only needs to point them in the direction of www.gocivilairpatrol.com for more information.

A special thank you to all those veterans who read this who have served our country in the past or present.  We greatly appreciate your sacrifice and dedication to this great land of ours.  Many of you continue to serve your country through the Civil Air Patrol as volunteers. Happy Veteran’s Day!

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