Civil Air Patrol’s California Wing

It’s almost Friday!

Anyone attending a event?

California Wing congratulates Captain Samantha Moat on being awarded the Col Robert V. “Bud” Payton Public Affairs Officer of the Year!

Captain Moat has served as the Public Affairs Officer (PAO) since April of 2022. She has focused on expanding cadet interest across the wing by creating a CAWG Cadet PA team and growing our public presence while solidifying the Wing’s brand.

Earning this national award reflects Capt Moat’s extraordinary dedication, professionalism, and exemplary service to our organization.

Congratulations, ma’am!

🐻✈️ SAVE THE DATE ✈️🐻

Ultimate Bear & Wings Challenge is back!

📅 September 11–13, 2026
📍 Posey, California

Three days. One team. Countless opportunities to push your limits, build lasting friendships, and experience one of California Wing’s premier cadet activities.

Mark your calendars—registration details coming soon!

California Wing Cadet Captain Penelope Theule has been accepted to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy () with aspirations to pilot the MH-65 Dolphin!

“CAP taught me that a leader can take many forms, and that I could be one too. In that way, CAP gave me confidence, something I had very little of before. As I progressed through the program, I developed a love for search and rescue. The week after NESA, I learned of the Coast Guard’s lifesaving mission and how closely it aligned with the core values I had adopted as a CAP cadet. My experience in followership and then leadership have prepared me well to transition to this next chapter, and I was able to communicate that in interviews and essays for the academies.

CAP cadets have the unique opportunity to have already pursued a structured leadership development program, practiced military customs and courtesies, and participated in spectacular cadet activities across the country and world. It’s my hope that this foundation will help myself and future appointees succeed through the rigors of an academy.”

Congratulations, Captain Theule!

California Wing congratulates Lt. Col. Ken Sturgill on being awarded ’s Inspector General of the Year!

This national-level award is a reflection of Lt. Col. Sturgill’s work and dedication to Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence, and Respect.

Serving as our wing’s Inspector General since 2014, Lt. Col. Sturgill has focused on solidifying relationships with units, mentoring members on required processes, and demystifying the world of the Inspector General.

He has also spent countless hours planning events, supporting cadets, and dedicating time to hosting cadets through the International Air Cadet Exchange.

Congratulations on this monumental achievement, sir!

Non-Commissioned Officer School (NCOS) Day 2

Day 2 marked the pinnacle of NCOS South at the ANG 147 Combat Communications Squadron.

Students become increasingly adroit as cadet non-commissioned officers, again taking responsibility in leading their peers in physical training during the morning. They perfected their drill and ceremonies skills with a competitive yet valuable game and delivered their final speeches to their peers and leadership. 

The day concluded with the much awaited graduation ceremony, where the families of the students came to proudly watch their cadets graduate from Non-Commissioned Officer School.

Awards and recognitions were announced for the outstanding efforts of the following cadets:

⭐️ NCOS Honor Cadet: C/SrA Brooke Madril

⭐️ NCOS Operations Staff Excellence: C/CMSgt Jack Ralston

⭐️ NCOS Support Staff Excellence: C/MSgt Josiah Frago

⭐️ NCOS Overall Staff Excellence: C/Capt Braden Marquette

eventually grow up, but their volunteer service remains. Congratulations, Capt. Zhao!

Las Cruces Composite Squadron Expands Health Services Leadership

The Las Cruces Composite Squadron continues strengthening its Health Services program with the appointment of Capt. Leon Zhao as primary Health Services Officer for cadets and assistant Health Services Officer for the squadron.

Capt. Zhao’s appointment helps expand support for cadet health, wellness, and mission readiness within the squadron. His willingness to serve reflects the continued commitment of New Mexico Wing members to supporting cadets and fellow volunteers.

Congratulations to Capt. Zhao on this important leadership role within the squadron and the Health Services program.

Submitted by Capt Tom Massing
NMWG Health Services Officer

Non-Commissioned Officer School (NCOS) Day 1

Day 1 is afoot at the California Air National Guard 147th Combat Communications Squadron.

Students began the day with PT, having the opportunity to lead it themselves.Throughout the course of Day 1, students participated in various classes, learning about National Cadet Special Activities, drill & ceremonies, and peer-to-peer instruction.

With each passing activity, students move closer to graduation and the final stages of Non-Commissioned Officer School.

We honor the men and women who gave up their yesterdays for our tomorrows.

We remember the sacrifices they made so we can be free.

Today, we dedicate time to express our gratitude and share the bravery of those who are no longer with us.

Non-Commissioned Officer School (NCOS) Day 0

Day 0 marked the beginning of NCOS at the California Air National Guard 147th Combat Communications Squadron in San Diego.

Cadets arrived, went through in-processing, and were assigned to their individual seminars. Cadets experienced a bonding team leadership problem, safety briefing, and closed out the night with lessons on communication etiquette and how to develop a well written cover letter and resume.