Since the beginning of the 2024-25 school year, the Cleveland County Civil Air Patrol (CAP) squadron has officially held its meetings at Moore Norman Technology Center (MNTC) in Norman, a shift that has enhanced training opportunities for both cadets and senior members. 

 

According to the Oklahoma Wing Government Relations Advisor Lt. Col. Craig Parker, this change has significantly improved the meeting environment, providing a state-of-the-art facility that supports cadet success. The squadron’s previous meeting facility had become overcrowded and outdated and is currently under renovation. While the squadron still utilizes the original location for storage and additional space, the transition to MNTC allows for better accommodations as the group continues to grow. 

 

With discussions underway about the possibility of dedicated CAP space in the new Norman Public Schools/Oklahoma Aviation Academy (NPS/OAA) building at the airport, the future looks promising for the squadron's continued expansion. 

 

In addition to regular meetings, the Cleveland County CAP holds awards ceremonies the first Tuesday of every month. This month a special Civil Air Patrol ceremony was held to recognize a recipient of the prestigious General Billy Mitchell Award, Cadet James ‘Jes’ Smith. This honor achieved by only 15% of CAP cadets nationwide. It marks the completion of the first two phases of the CAP Cadet Program and signifies a cadet’s transition into an officer leadership role. 

 

Oklahoma Representative Jason Blair presented the award at the ceremony, with additional recognition coming from Governor Kevin Stitt and U.S. Congressman Tom Cole. The achievement is a testament to the cadet’s dedication to leadership, aerospace education, fitness, and character. In addition to its prestige within CAP, the Billy Mitchell Award is also recognized by the U.S. Air Force, granting recipients the opportunity to enlist at the advanced rank of Airman First Class (E-3). 

 

It is interesting to note that Jes Smith’s father, James Bret Smith, recently completed the MNTC Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program at MNTC and was a member of the first graduating class AMT 01-23.  

 

Another cadet from the squadron has also recently qualified for the Billy Mitchell Award, with a second ceremony scheduled for March 18. The Cleveland County CAP squadron continues to produce top-tier cadets, solidifying its reputation for excellence in leadership training.

 

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Established in 1941, Civil Air Patrol(CAP) is a public service organization chartered by Congress that functions both as a nonprofit and the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Operating as a nonprofit, CAP provides an array of K-12 aerospace and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) curriculum and educational products for members and teachers; offers youth character, leadership, and career development opportunities; and provides essential community service for federal, state, and local agencies in the air and on the ground.