Paris, Tenn.–The Henry County Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, is up and running after being shut down due to the pandemic and they want to invite everyone to learn more about the Civil Air Patrol. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is America’s premier public service organization for carrying out emergency services and disaster relief missions nationwide. As the auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, CAP’s vigilant citizen volunteers are there to search for and find the lost, provide comfort in times of disaster, and work to keep the homeland safe.
Civil Air Patrol’s awarding-winning aerospace education program promotes aerospace, aviation, and STEM-related careers with engaging, hands-on curriculum and activities. It shapes the experiences and aspirations of youth, helping shape future leaders.
Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program transforms youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders through a curriculum that focuses on leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character. As cadets participate in these four elements, they advance through a series of achievements, earning honors and increased responsibilities along the way. Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots, engineers, and scientists first explored their careers through CAP.
Wendy Crawford of the Civil Air Patrol said, “We have some exciting news to share about our squadron. In December, our commander, Major Charlton Young celebrated 20 years with Civil Air Patrol. Major Young joined the Civil Air Patrol in December 2003. He has served in numerous roles, including Aerospace Education Officer, Safety Officer, Health Services Officer, Communications Officer, Squadron Commander as well as being named Commander of the Kentucky Wing, Hendersonville Flight. He has been part of several squadrons in Kentucky and Tennessee, including the Hendersonville Squadron, and the Dickson County Composite Squadron. He assisted Union City in starting a Squadron. Major Young began serving in Henry County Composite Squadron in March 2022 as the Deputy Commander for Seniors. In June 2023, Major Young assumed command of the unit.”
In February, Gus von Dohlen was assigned as squadron chaplain and promoted to Captain.
Chaplains in the Civil Air Patrol have a long history of providing spiritual and emotional support to cadets and senior members as they navigate the demands of leadership and growth in human relationships. Chaplains are also involved in providing religious services like any other minister. Chaplains can serve as the Character Development Instructor. Often State Encampments and NACO training events have a Chaplain assigned to intermediate disputes, serve as a sounding board for thinking through issues, and providing counsel.
Captain von Dohlen holds two Masters degrees, one in Divinity, the other in Business Administration, and a Doctorate in pastoral counseling and has served as a Chaplain for over 30 years. He has been with the Civil Air Patrol for three years. He is also a Coast Guard Chaplain serving five Coast Guard Stations in Kentucky and Tennessee.
“We would like to welcome everyone to come and visit our squadron. Youth members must be at least 12 years of age and not yet 19 years old, and senior membership is open to adults at least 18 years of age. We meet the first and third Saturday of every month from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM at 175 Flatwoods Lane, Paris, TN 38242. Find us on Facebook at Henry County CAP.”