Generational Leadership

Major points to "mikeylikey" from CAPTalk who turned me onto this article from the Air Force about leading differing generations. After reading it, I couldn't help but think about the differing generations within the Civil Air Patrol. The demographics of the seniors at my squadron range from 22 (myself) to over 80. In thinking about the differing generations at my unit, and the way they act, the descriptions outlined in the article are uncanny. Although all embody a spirit of service and "how can I help?", the post-war generation embodies that spirit the most, followed by the Baby Boomers who tend to have the biggest ideas. The Generation X-ers do have a 'distrust' of authority, yes, but don't buck it like the article implies. Instead, they follow those they respect more than someone they don't. Of course, that's a natural fact of leadership in general. Being part of the Millennial Generation, I will concur with the assessment made by the Colonel.

In short, the advice given by the Colonel in the article should be taken to heart. I intend to try it out myself. I highly suggest the read.

Got something to say on this? joint the discussion here on CAPTalk.

CAP Bill: Resurection

Remember that CAP Bill? Well, according to this thread on CAPTalk, it was referred to a GAO study and was done so with an 8-0 vote. Some have called this a roadblock. Perhaps it will be, but at least the bill finally got some attention in congress.

I'm still holding out hope that the bill will be passed and we take on more Homeland Security Missions. However, I'm also fine with the way things are going; at least in my wing.

UPDATE: I Checked the Library of Congress website. According to it, the bill was forwarded to the full committee (with revisions) by an 8-0 vote. I imagine those revisions include the words "GAO Study"

Joint-SAREX: How much better can it get?

Recently, MDWG and WVWG conducted a joint SAREX with the National Guard. The Wing also posted a personal perspective located here.

This is just the latest in a line of joint efforts between MD and WV Wings. The first took place last September with a joint SAREX on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The second was a joint mission, conducted in conjunction with the MD State Police. This SAREX was unique as the MD National Guard was able to transport members of the wing on Blackhawk helicopters straight to the mission base in West Virginia.

I've said time and time again that Col. Wiess (MDWG Commander) has done an excellent job increasing the readiness of the wing regarding Emergency Services. Additionally, the MD Adjutant General has referred to CAP as "One Heck of a Resource". If there was any example as to the support this wing has received from the National Guard, this is it.

Although I was unable to attend, my understanding was this was a great event. I hope more like it can be planned in the future. I have no doubt that more of this will come.

Inspection Time

Okay, so maybe inspections aren't this bad. However, the lead up to them can seem like it will be. That's right. My squadron was inspected last night. Fortunately we passed with no difficulty. Ordinarily, I wouldn't blog about these kinds of events, but one of the inspectors reads this blog. When I found that out, I knew I had to write about it. I am always amazed how long, but efficient the inspection actually is. Even though the inspectors were down one person, they still managed to get everything accomplished in a reasonable time. (And yes, I do really mean that.)

One thing my wing is doing that I was unable to organize by the time of the inspection are continuity books. For those that don't know, they're books with the name, rank and bio of the person in charge, along with regulations, files and any other pertinent information regarding that particular department (in my case, Cadet Programs). I've done them for my fraternity, and agree with the practice. Deciding what's 'pertinent' is another issue entirely.

Miscellaneous News

It's been slow in the CAP world, but there is a national conference coming up. I found a policy letter from Brig. Gen. Courter rescinding the U.S. Civil Air Patrol tapes, and changing the CAP Command patch to exclude the "U.S." part. There were other uniform items approved for the Air Force style uniform, but the policy letter said they were not yet approved by the Air Force. The policy letter can be found here.

But the most interesting thing is probably the new slogan: Citizens serving Communities: Above and Beyond. I like this much better than "More than meets the skies". Firstly, it's not cheesy. Secondly, it gets the message across about what we do much easier. "Citizen serving communities" can mean a lot of different things, but sends the right message.

I'll see you all around the block as soon as some interesting news comes up!

New Site: CAPlopedia

I was cleaning out my favorites today when I noticed a peculiar site. The CAPlopedia is an interesting endeavor by one 2nd Lt. Reuben Tamblingson, CAP. Although it focuses mostly on Cadet Programs, with some work and ideas it could become a valuable resource for both new and old members alike.

One of the most promising features is the forums. Since the close of the Civil Air Portal in 2006, many of us, myself included, have been looking for a place to go online and trade ideas. CAPTalk is one such place, but it lacks the innovative "can do" spirit the old Civil Air Portal had. This new site could become that site's successor.

I'll be registering my username today...I invite all to drop by and check it out. Tell your friends, too!

Chair Force Auxiliary?

Ladies and Gentleman, He's Back! Tedda, creator of the sorely missed Civil Air Portal, and the now-defunct Flying Minuteman site has returned with his web-comic series Swivel Chair Patrol. A hilarious, yet good natured look at our beloved Civil Air Patrol, Tedda combines the wit and charm we have come to expect, with a little self-parody and scored a winner.

(Honorable Mention to Chuck Cook for the inspiration for the title)