Civil Air Patrol invites community to Monday open house

11 months ago

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The local branch of Civil Air Patrol invites the community to see what they’re all about during an open house on Monday, June 5, in Presque Isle.

The Aroostook County Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol will host the event from 4 to 8 p.m. at their 995 Missile St. headquarters.

Both cadets and senior members will be present to visit with attendees, who can also watch a video about Civil Air Patrol. Visitors will find an aerospace table with information about what the group teaches and a chance to create a rubber band rocket, and a U.S. Air Force recruiter will share information and explain how the patrol functions as an Air Force auxiliary.

Hot dogs will be served from 4 to 6 p.m.

During the event, cadets will present a color guard demonstration and other drill techniques. Group leaders will discuss how they teach first aid and search and rescue techniques, accompanied by members of the forestry service and other state agencies who orchestrate search and rescue efforts, said Kelly Mierzwa, finance and fundraising coordinator for the squadron.

The North American Flight Club will have planes on site for people to look at and talk about flying.

The County Composite Squadron includes youth and adult members from throughout The County, who participate in military-style drill training, color guard presentations, volunteer and emergency services, aerospace training and more. Members can even learn to fly.

The group is also involved in Wreaths Across America, which honors deceased veterans with the placement of  holiday wreaths on their graves. Members will share why they participate, which is summed up in the slogan: Remember. Honor. Teach.

For information about the open house or Civil Air Patrol in general, visit the squadron’s Facebook page at facebook.com/NER033.