In addition to the Spaatz Award, Ms. Klein has earned the Commander's Commendation with two bronze clasps and the Lifesaving Award. She has attended three National Cadet Special Activities, including the International Air Cadet Exchange where she traveled to New Zealand in 2007.

Colonel Klein joined Civil Air Patrol in 2003 and served as a member of the Stevens Point Composite Squadron before transferring to the Fox Cities Composite Squadron (Appleton, WI). A graduate of the Wisconsin Cadet Academy, Klein served on the Wisconsin Wing and Great Lakes Region Cadet Advisory Councils. Currently, Heidi is a member of the North Dakota Wing, and serves as the North Central Region's Primary Representative to the National Cadet Advisory Council.

In 2005, Ms Klein was nominated by Senator Herb Kohl to serve as a United States Senate Page in Washington D.C. Only 30 students nationwide are selected for this prestigious assignment. During her six-month stay in the nation's capitol, Klein taught Civil Air Patrol cadets attending the Civic Leadership Academy.

An active emergency services participant, Klein holds ratings as Air Operations Branch Director (AOBD) and Ground Branch Director. Most recently, Colonel Klein served as the AOBD for the North Dakota Wing's SAR EVAL and received a rating of "Excellent."

Always having a passion for flying, Klein received her Private Pilot certificate in 2005, and just recently received her Single and Multi Engine Commercial Instrument Pilot ratings. Following graduation, Klein's goal is to be a commercial airline pilot.

Klein encourages fellow cadets to take advantage of all the opportunities afforded by membership in CAP. She is also thankful for the encouragement and support from adult officers (senior members); in particular, Heidi credits Lt Col Jeffrey Thomas as her mentor. Cadet Colonel Klein is the daughter of Captain Christopher Klein, Wisconsin Wing and Great Lakes Region Supply Officer.

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