HAGER CITY – Ninety-plus Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members from across Minnesota and Wisconsin gathered Sept. 25-27 for the 39^th annual BlackCAP Emergency Services College at the Red Wing MN CAP hangar located at the Red Wing Regional Airport.

This was a weekend of hands-on training, teamwork and tradition. Cadets and adult members practiced key emergency skills, including basic radio communications, compass navigation, line search techniques, drone operations and litter carry procedures.

This year’s attendees ranged from brand-new cadets to long-serving leaders. Maj. David Carlstrom, BlackCAP Commander, has participated in at least 20 events.

“BlackCAP gives new members a strong start and experienced members a chance to refine their skills,” said Maj. Carlstrom

The civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, the Civil Air Patrol members perform emergency services missions for local, state and federal agencies through search and rescue, disaster response, aerial reconnaissance, communications support, homeland security operations and humanitarian missions.

Volunteers Serving America’s Communities, by saving lives and shaping futures is their motto through their core values of integrity, volunteer service, excellence and respect.

The organization provides a welcoming environment where members can grow through leadership, participation, service and professional development opportunities.

For more information contact Capt. Brenda Carlstrom at brenda.carlstrom@charter.net or see gocivilairpatrol.com.

Submitted by Capt. Brenda Carlstrom