On Sept. 11, 2021 Civil Air Patrol’s Riverside Composite Squadron members assisted with this year's annual Tulsa Flight Night Gala, benefiting Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance at Tulsa Technology Center’s Riverside Campus, home of the squadron itself, at RL Jones Airport.

The cadets and adult members assisted aircraft departing the flight ramp as they were taxiing before takeoff. They also maintained a security perimeter around the active flight line, to keep the guests of the gala and the planes present safe.

As stated on their website, “Tulsa Flight Night is a 501(c)(3) sparking the future of innovation in Oklahoma by igniting community support to provide students access to life-changing STEM learning opportunities.”

“Flight Night’s focus mirrors our own,” said 1st Lt. Tamara Shannon, the squadrons aerospace education officer. “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education programs are the building blocks of the aerospace and aviation industries. The future of our city, state, and nation is going to be hugely affected by the technology industries. Coming together to impact our youth in this way is a step in the right direction.”

About 54,000 Civil Air Patrol volunteers across the country lend their expertise and time to help save lives, shape futures, and strengthen education using aerospace and STEM curricula developed by CAP. Civil Air Patrol’s aerospace education programs support community schools, teachers, students and CAP youth through a variety of programs, including curriculum for K-12 classes and study guides, books and special project kits that address aviation, space, cyber and STEM. Special programs range from recognizing outstanding educators to providing teachers an opportunity to see how scientific principles work while flying in a

CAP aircraft.

“Having been both a cadet and senior member in CAP,” Shannon said. “I personally know the tremendous positive impact the program can have on youth. It inspires cadets to reach for their dreams and then gives them the tools they need to turn those dreams into reality.”

Cadets were tasked with maintaining the safety and security of the flight line, while performing crowd control duties, giving them an up close and personal view of the air show. Participation in events such as this build a sense of individual responsibility as well as teamwork.

“I enjoyed working with the aircraft,” said Cadet Chief Master Sgt. Steel, the squadrons cadet first sergeant. “I like the aviation aspect of the CAP program and all the experiences that gives you. I also enjoy the cadet programs and drill.”

To learn more about Oklahoma Wing, visit okwg.cap.gov.