Schober Graduates Civil Air Patrol Summer Encampment

On Saturday, July 1, 2023, 12-year-old Whitehall resident Lillian Schober graduated from the Civil Air Patrol Montana Wing Summer Encampment. This week-long event took place at Fort Harrison in Helena and is akin to a youth-based boot camp. During the week, Schober and over fifty other cadets developed leadership skills, investigated aerospace sciences and other related careers, committed to a habit of regular exercise, and solidified their moral character. They did this through regular uniform and barracks inspections, drills and ceremonies (marching), flying in a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, completing a military obstacle course, and many other exciting activities. Cadet Schober was part of the first all-female flight with 13 other female cadets from all over Montana, Idaho, and California.

The Civil Air Patrol, the Auxiliary of the Air Force, was formed in 1941 to mobilize the nation's civilian aviation resources for national defense service. CAP has evolved into a premiere public service organization that still carries out emergency service missions when needed. The CAP core values are Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence, and Respect. Cadet Schober attends weekly meetings at the Gallatin Composite Squadron that meet in Belgrade every Monday from 6:30 PM - 9 PM at the National Guard Armory on Airport Rd. Cadets can join as young as 12 years old to participate in the program's three primary missions of Cadet Programs, Aerospace Education, and Emergency Services. If you are interested in learning more and forming lasting friendships visit the Gallatin Composite Squadron website at Gallatin.CAP.gov.