Mount Airy Composite Squadron Expands Membership and Completes Successful Training Exercises

Mount Airy’s Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol is experiencing significant growth and community engagement, as highlighted in their recent report during the Mount Airy Town Council meeting on August 4, 2025. The squadron has increased its active membership from one to three, with roles including a pilot, a radio operator, and a mission scanner, enhancing their operational capabilities.

In July, the squadron celebrated the achievements of several cadets who completed prestigious national cadet academies, including the Air Force Pararescue and Survival Orientation, the Mid Atlantic Region Honor Guard Academy, and the Cyber Security Academy. This accomplishment is notable as it surpasses participation rates of many other squadrons.

The squadron has also been active in community service, assisting with cleanup efforts at the carnival fairgrounds following the town's fireworks celebration. They are preparing to support road closures for the upcoming Mount Airy Mile and anticipate further requests for assistance during the Celebrate Mannery event.

In terms of training, the squadron conducted a search and rescue exercise sponsored by the Air Force, resulting in cadets achieving qualifications in urban direction finding and mid-mission radio operations. The squadron is also expanding its flight training, with plans to increase the number of powered orientation flights for cadets.

Despite these successes, the squadron faces a pressing challenge: they are in search of a new meeting location. Currently meeting at the Isaac Walton League, the situation has become untenable, prompting the need for a more suitable venue. The squadron has utilized South Carroll High School as needed but is actively seeking a permanent solution that accommodates their operational needs.

As the squadron continues to grow and engage with the community, their efforts reflect a commitment to both youth development and public service in Mount Airy.