Written by: Kevin Rought, Captain CAP USAF Aux.
On June 29, 2024, seven cadets from the Polk County Composite Squadron participated in Cadet Orientation Flights at Bartow Executive Airport. The cadets flew in a Cessna 172 and a Cessna 206, both piloted by Lt. Colonel Rake and Lt. Colonel Lawrence McConnell. During the flights, the cadets experienced basic flight controls and maneuvers. Prior to takeoff, they were taught how to conduct a proper pre-flight inspection. A prospective cadet had the opportunity to watch the other cadets conducting a pre-flight inspection alongside the Pilot in Command. He will be joining the Polk County Composite Squadron after he turns 12 years old.
One of the cadets, 13-year-old Cadet K. Diaz from Davenport, FL, an incoming freshman at Santa Fe Catholic High School, joined the Polk County Composite Squadron just two weeks ago and experienced her first airplane ride. Cadet Diaz shared, “I had a blast and will do it again.” She is still undecided about her future plans after high school but is considering obtaining her private pilot license when she turns 17.
When they weren’t flying, the cadets enjoyed a tour of the control tower at Bartow Airport and had the opportunity to see the Tampa General Hospital Aeromed and Polk County Sheriff Office helicopter. For more information about the Polk County Composite Squadron, please contact Capt. K. Rought at [email protected] or visit www.fl274.cap.gov