By Shannon Lukens.

 

The Civil Air Patrol has a cadet squadron in Northwest Colorado. It is for those kids ages 12 and older. They meet at Bob Adams Field in Steamboat Springs each Tuesday to learn about military careers, flying, and more.

 

This week’s speaker was Shannon Gotchey who was a “backseater” for F18 and super hornet jets. She did navigation and weapons. Gotchey grew up in Steamboat Springs, graduating from Steamboat Springs High School in 1999. After college in Boulder, she went to Navy flight school in Pensacola, Florida. She had deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa.

“Anyone in this world can do anything they want to if they put their mind to it. It’s not about girl power. It’s about will power and studying hard and doing the work.”

 

Also at Tuesday’s meeting, Emma Russell was honored with the Mitchell Award which is a milestone award for cadets who have sustained excellence in leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character.

“I’m very proud of myself. It was definitely very hard to do.”

 

Long explanation of the Mitchell Award.

 

Others recognized at a pinning ceremony were:

 

William Rush

 

Graham Smith

 

Lucas Froman

 

Coen Dore

 

 

The Civil Air Patrol Cadets meet from 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Steamboat Springs Airport/Bob Adams field. Anyone in Northwest Colorado is invited.

  

For more information on the cadet programs, contact:

•  Lt. Christine Russell    Email: colorado.crussell@gmail.com                                                                                                                                  
• Senior Member Dave Smith    Email: dawsmith8@gmail.com          
•  Facebook Link: Steamboat Springs Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol