Lt Col Brett Slagle and Capt Kevin Bray of the Peachtree City Falcon Field Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol (CAP), flew a brand new Cessna 172 equipped with the Garmin G1000 flight management system from the Cessna factory in Wichita to the squadron’s home base in Peachtree City Oct. 8.
The aircraft valued at over $400,000 will be used in the three missions of Civil Air Patrol: Emergency Services (i.e. search and rescue, disaster assistance and others); Cadet Programs (the premier leadership and character development program for youth 12-18 years of age) and Aerospace Education (providing resources for the education community to include orientation flights in its aircraft).
The Peachtree City Falcon Field Composite Squadron is one of the largest squadrons in Georgia currently with 55 cadet and 67 senior members. They continue to be the most operational squadron in Georgia. During the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, squadron pilots flew more than 600 hours nearly double the next closest squadron.
The cadet program has produced leaders in every arena over the 25-plus years of its existence. Former cadets are graduates of every military academy (demonstrated excellence in CAP is a top credential for application) and currently flying F-16s, serving in every service and as civilians. Earning the Billy Mitchell award is so respected by the services that it entitles the recipient to advance pay grade if they enlist.
“It was an honor for the squadron to receive this new aircraft and was a reflection on the dedicated volunteer service from squadron members,” said squadron commander Lt. Col. Dave Mitchell. “Further, it would be immediately put to use serving the community the state and our great nation. The squadron plans to have the new aircraft on static display during the upcoming Great Georgia Air show at Falcon Field.”
Peachtree City Mayor Vanessa Fleisch, along with councilmen Eric Imker, Terry Ernst and Mike King, were present to welcome the new aircraft.
Currently, GA-116 meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 225 Robinson Road in Peachtree City. Ages 12 and up are welcome to join. Find out more about GA-116 at www.GA116.org or on Facebook.
