January 2026 - Riwg_mbrs

Aircrew Training
by COURTNEY, RICHARD - Lt Col, CAP, RIWG/DOS 29 Jan '26

29 Jan '26

All members 18 and older are invited to train in emergency services (ES) Aircrew Training. The positions are Mission Scanner, Mission Observer and Airborne Photographer. RIWG has set an ES exercise for February 28th with a rain date of March 1. Another exercise weekend is scheduled for March 28 & 29. Additional training dates for a new aircrew qualification include: March 18, April 11, 12 & 22, May 9, 10, 27, 30 & 31. Other good days for training are Tuesday. Right now there is a pilot looking for a trainee for Saturday. Email me if interested with your availability. The ES crew will work to get your preparatory work done and in the air. Best, Lt Col Richard Courtney Rhode Island Wing Director of Operations Rhode Island Wing Director of Emergency Services Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 401.636.0659 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> [https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdfnoLZwYhrCXQ3cuLiuYTZOa8q…] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.

1 0

Volunteers Needed: Help Make the Cadet Ball & Awards Banquet a Success
by SKRABUT, STAN - COL CAP, RIWG/CC 19 Jan '26

19 Jan '26

Rhode Island Wing Members, March 15 is approaching quickly, and we need your help to make this year’s Cadet Ball and Awards Banquet a success. Once again, we are bringing the Cadet Ball and Awards Banquet together. The Cadet Ball is an important tradition. It is run by cadets, for cadets, with adult supervision. That means it truly takes a team effort from both cadets and senior members to make it happen. Volunteers are what turn a good event into a memorable one. From welcoming guests to supporting our cadets behind the scenes, every role matters. Without volunteers, this event simply cannot happen in the way our cadets deserve. We are looking for help in the following areas: • Master of Ceremony • Music • Ticket / Sign-In Table • Set Up and Decorations • Photographers • Awards Table Support • Color Guard • Distinguished Visitor Escorts (cadets in Class A uniform) • Protocol Officer If you are able to volunteer, please email 1st Lt Hirons directly at jhirons(a)riwg.cap.gov and let her know how you would like to help and your availability. Your support will make a difference. This is also a great opportunity for cadets to step up, lead, and gain valuable experience, and for senior members to mentor and support them. Thank you for your continued support of our cadets and our wing. I truly appreciate everyone who is willing to step forward and help make this a special evening for all involved. If you still need to sign up for the banquet, please go to https://www.capnhq.gov/CAP.Experiences.Web/Registration/RegistrationDetails… Carpe diem, Col Stan Skrabut Rhode Island Wing Interim Commander Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 307.287.8147 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> riwg.cap.gov<http://riwg.cap.gov/> [cid:7e85b0de-fee2-40aa-943c-87fb1c2178a2] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures

1 0

2026 Encampment Update for Rhode Island Wing
by SKRABUT, STAN - COL CAP, RIWG/CC 18 Jan '26

18 Jan '26

Dear Rhode Island Wing Members and Families, I want to share an important update regarding encampment opportunities for this year. Due to ongoing renovations at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island Wing will not be hosting an encampment this summer. While this is disappointing, the good news is that several excellent encampments are available throughout the region and nation, and we strongly encourage our cadets to apply. A current list of approved Civil Air Patrol encampments can be found here: https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/activities/encampment If a significant number of Rhode Island Wing cadets plan to attend the same encampment, the wing will explore the possibility of arranging group transportation. More details will be shared as we better understand where cadets are applying. Encampment remains a cornerstone experience of the Cadet Program, and we are committed to helping our cadets access this opportunity even in a year when we are unable to host locally. Thank you for your flexibility and continued support of our cadets and volunteers. Please reach out through your unit chain of command if you have questions. Carpe diem, Col Stan Skrabut Rhode Island Wing Interim Commander Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 307.287.8147 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> riwg.cap.gov<http://riwg.cap.gov/> [cid:b62623bd-18e7-4961-ad77-4fa1839e9458] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures

1 0

Fw: SIGN-UP for Jan 24th Massachusetts Search and Rescue School (MASAR)
by COURTNEY, RICHARD - Lt Col, CAP, RIWG/DOS 16 Jan '26

16 Jan '26

Another opportunity with MA wing ________________________________ From: Kheyfets, Sergey <sergey.kheyfets(a)mawg.cap.gov> Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 5:03 PM To: all-members <all-members(a)mawg.cap.gov>; COURTNEY, RICHARD - Lt Col, CAP, RIWG/DOS <rcourtney(a)riwg.cap.gov> Cc: Daniel DeLesdernier <daniel.delesdernier(a)mawg.cap.gov>; Tina Hooton <tina.hooton(a)mawg.cap.gov>; Michael Ortega-Ramos <michael.ortega-ramos(a)mawg.cap.gov>; C. Michael Hiam <c.michael.hiam(a)mawg.cap.gov>; James O'Connell <james.oconnell(a)mawg.cap.gov> Subject: SIGN-UP for Jan 24th Massachusetts Search and Rescue School (MASAR) Greetings! Massachusetts Search and Rescue School (MASAR) is pleased to offer FREE training for Urban Direction Finding (UDF) qualifications on 24 Jan 2026 at Lincoln W. Stoddard US Army Reserve Center <https://maps.app.goo.gl/LmbRM5q7ykL5creh6> at 25 N Lake Ave, Worcester, MA 01605, United States NOTE: Sign-up closes on 22 Jan 2025 at 2200 local NOTE: This is a DIFFERENT event than Mission Aircrew Academy also conducted at Jan 24th at Beverly Regional Airport. There is NO planned aircrew coordination. What UDF - train and evaluate/sign off tasks O-0214 determine and plot an azimuth on a map O-0304 triangulate on a distress beacon signal O-0205 locate a point on a map using the CAP grid system O-0218 locate own position on a map using terrain association O-0202 measure distance with pace count O-0203 navigate past an obstacle O-0204 locate a point on a map using latitude and longitude O-0209 identify the major terrain features on a map O-0210 identify topographic symbols on a map O-0211 determine elevation on a map O-0212 measure distance on a map O-0213 convert between map and compass azimuths O-0215 determine azimuths on a map using two points O-0216 orient map to the ground using terrain association O-0217 orient a map to North using a compass When Jan 24th, 2026 Drop-off time: 0900 local Pickup time: 1600 local Requirements UDF * Completed CAPT 116 (General Emergency Services Test (GES)) available in Absorb LMS * Commander Approval for UDF Prerequisites in Operational Qualifications (just submit in Operational Qualifications) * If you still need O-0010 task signed off, minimum equipment list is: * Any CAP authorized uniform * Notepad and pencil/pen * CAP Identification (CAP ID card) * Watch (or phone showing time ) * Orange reflective safety west, ANSI-2 recommended. * Ground and UDF Team Task Guide<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Ground_Team__UDF_Task_Guide__24_…> * If you don't have all of the equipment listed, you can STILL PARTICIPATE, the task will be signed off at a later date once you have equipment * You would also require a Compass (lensatic or orienteering (prefered) ) with "glow in dark" dial for land navigation Where Pickup/Drop off location: 25 N Lake Ave, Worcester, MA 01605, United States<https://maps.app.goo.gl/LmbRM5q7ykL5creh6> Cost Free Food Bring snacks, lunch and hydration SIGN-UP LINK<https://forms.gle/FoxEvtJ32f4KtqDy9> 1st Lt Sergey Kheyfets Emergency Services Officer, Hanscom Composite Squadron Assistant Emergency Services Officer, Massachusetts Wing Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 781-392-4875<tel:781-392-4875> GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> [https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAPEmailLogo_AF2696D854CCA.png]<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.

1 0

102d Composite Squadron Update – New Commander Appointed
by SKRABUT, STAN - COL CAP, RIWG/CC 15 Jan '26

15 Jan '26

Hi Team Rhode Island Wing, I am pleased to share some very good news regarding the 102d Composite Squadron. The 102d Composite Squadron will not be closing. I am happy to announce that 1st Lt Robert Ackert has assumed command of the squadron, effective immediately (pending processing of CAPF 27), relieving Major David DeMello. I want to extend my sincere thanks to Major DeMello for his service as Squadron Commander. His willingness to step up and lead is greatly appreciated, and we are grateful for his dedication and contributions to the squadron and the Wing. I also want to thank 1st Lt Ackert for volunteering to take on the role of Squadron Commander. Stepping into command is no small commitment, and his decision to do so ensures the continued operation and success of the 102d Composite Squadron. We look forward to supporting him as he leads the unit forward. Please join me in thanking Major DeMello for his service and welcoming 1st Lt Ackert into command. We wish them both continued success. I would also like to thank all the others how helped make this possible—Major Finch, 1st Lt Hirons, and Col Hirons. Carpe diem, Col Stan Skrabut Rhode Island Wing Interim Commander Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 307.287.8147 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> riwg.cap.gov<http://riwg.cap.gov/> [cid:2c8614bf-2dd8-4a41-8191-e55b3d74aeec] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures

1 0

Rhode Island Wing CAC Monthly Meeting – Observer Invitation
by Dustin Silva 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

Good evening members of the* Rhode Island Wing Civil Air Patrol,* This coming *Tuesday, the 13th, from 1800–1900,* the Rhode Island Wing Cadet Advisory Council (CAC) will be holding its monthly meeting. The CAC serves as the official voice of cadets within the Wing, providing recommendations to Wing leadership on cadet programs, activities, policies, and overall cadet experience across Civil Air Patrol. We strongly encourage *any *cadet interested in influencing *Wing-leve*l decisions and contributing to the future of our cadet programs to attend this virtual meeting as an observer. You may attend using the following link: https://calendar.app.google/8RNGRgBgaNwNBVbm9 No uniform is required to observe, and cameras are not required to be on. Observers must remain muted unless called upon or unless they raise their hand and are recognized. Please note that this is a professional setting, and proper etiquette is expected at *all *times. Cadets will have the opportunity to share ideas during the open floor portion of the meeting. If you do plan to attend, please ensure your display name is formatted as *Grade, Name, Squadron*. (Ex. *SMsgt. Silva, Westbay)* If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me or any CAC Officers. The meeting agenda is attached below. I hope to see many of you there! Virtus in Unitate, Cadet Sr. Master Sgt. Dustin SilvaNER Encampment Committee Vice Chair NER CAC Primary Representative to Region RIWG CAC Chairman West Bay Squadron Flight Sergeant Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) (508) 374 3767 <(508)+374-3767> GoCivilAirPatrol.com <https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> West Bay Composite Squadron <https://westbay.cap.gov/> <https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.

1 0

Fw: REMINDER, TIME CHANGE - SIGN-UP for VIRTUAL Jan 10th Massachusetts Search and Rescue School (MASAR)
by COURTNEY, RICHARD - Lt Col, CAP, RIWG/DOS 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

________________________________ From: Kheyfets, Sergey <sergey.kheyfets(a)mawg.cap.gov> Sent: Monday, January 5, 2026 11:38 PM To: all-members <all-members(a)mawg.cap.gov> Cc: COURTNEY, RICHARD - Lt Col, CAP, RIWG/DOS <rcourtney(a)riwg.cap.gov>; Tina Hooton <Tina.Hooton(a)mawg.cap.gov>; Daniel DeLesdernier <daniel.delesdernier(a)mawg.cap.gov> Subject: REMINDER, TIME CHANGE - SIGN-UP for VIRTUAL Jan 10th Massachusetts Search and Rescue School (MASAR) Greetings! This is a REMINDER and a TIME CHANGE announcement, this virtual training will now take place at 1900 local on THIS Saturday 10 Jan 2026 and will only last for 1 hour. Massachusetts Search and Rescue School (MASAR) is pleased to offer FREE training for Urban Direction Finding (UDF) qualification on 10 Jan 2026 on Google Meet NOTE: Sign-up closes on 8 Jan 2026 at 2200 local What UDF - train and review mission paperwork tasks: * how a mission gets started * finding a mission in wmirs * adding people * creating a sortie * ORM and safety * getting released * closing a sortie * money matters. use of the card, mileage When Jan 10th, 2026 1900 local to 2000 local Requirements UDF * Completed CAPT 116 (General Emergency Services Test (GES)) available in Absorb LMS * Commander Approval for UDF Prerequisites in Operational Qualifications (just submit in Operational Qualifications) Where VIRTUAL at Google Meet (link shared day before) Cost Free SIGN-UP LINK <https://forms.gle/8gzEtiRgBuUzEeXY6> 1st Lt Sergey Kheyfets Emergency Services Officer, Hanscom Composite Squadron Assistant Emergency Services Officer, Massachusetts Wing Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 781-392-4875<tel:781-392-4875> GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> [https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/CAPEmailLogo_AF2696D854CCA.png]<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.

1 0

Level Up in 2026: Invest in Yourself and Our Wing
by SKRABUT, STAN - COL CAP, RIWG/CC 01 Jan '26

01 Jan '26

Hi Team, As we begin a new year, I encourage each of you to do something intentional in CAP: level up. Civil Air Patrol offers an incredible range of opportunities for growth, learning, and service. Whether you are a cadet or a senior member, there is always another step you can take to sharpen your skills and expand your impact. For senior members, this might mean: * Advancing in the Professional Development program * Completing the next level in a specialty track * Earning new Emergency Services qualifications * Progressing toward or earning an advanced aviator rating * Becoming more involved in Aerospace Education at the squadron or wing level For our cadets, leveling up could include: * Continuing your cadet achievement progression * Taking on greater leadership responsibilities * Participating in activities that deepen your understanding of aerospace, character, and service * Preparing yourself for future opportunities within and beyond CAP None of this is about checking boxes. Advancement in CAP matters because it makes us more capable teammates, better mentors, and stronger leaders. When you grow, the Wing grows. When you invest in your training, you make the program better for everyone around you. If you are unsure of your next step, please reach out to your chain of command, a mentor, or a staff officer. Ask the question. Start the conversation. There is almost always someone ready to help you take that next step. I am proud of the work being done across Rhode Island Wing, and I am excited about what we can accomplish together this year. Let’s make 2026 a year of progress, growth, and momentum. Thank you for what you do and for choosing to serve. Carpe diem, Col Stan Skrabut Rhode Island Wing Interim Commander Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 307.287.8147 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> riwg.cap.gov<http://riwg.cap.gov/> [cid:43216034-c86a-46a8-aaa0-9b8418353e3e] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures

1 0

Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
by SKRABUT, STAN - COL CAP, RIWG/CC 01 Jan '26

01 Jan '26

Hi Team, As we begin a new year of training, missions, and activities, I want to take a moment to talk about something that matters more than any qualification, award, or sortie count: safety. Safety is not a checklist item or a box we rush through at the start of a meeting. It is a mindset. It is a daily commitment we make to one another as teammates and as leaders. Every member, regardless of grade or role, has both the authority and the responsibility to speak up when something does not look right. If you see a hazard, please report it. If you feel pressured to proceed when conditions are not safe, please don't hesitate to stop. If a plan changes, reassess. There will never be consequences for choosing safety. There can be very real consequences for ignoring it. I expect safety to be treated seriously at every level of the Wing: during meetings, training events, vehicle operations, aviation activities, and informal interactions alike. Leaders set the tone, but safety only works when everyone owns it. Please continue to submit safety reports, share lessons learned, and have open conversations within your units. Those actions are signs of professionalism, not weakness. They help ensure that every member goes home safe at the end of the day. Thank you for what you do for Civil Air Patrol and for one another. Taking care of our people is how we take care of the mission. Stay safe, look out for each other, and never hesitate to slow things down when needed. Carpe diem, Col Stan Skrabut Rhode Island Wing Interim Commander Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 307.287.8147 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> riwg.cap.gov<http://riwg.cap.gov/> [cid:cf9027c2-f744-4140-9425-41a1345b827b] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures

1 0

Our Commitment to Equal Opportunity in Civil Air Patrol
by SKRABUT, STAN - COL CAP, RIWG/CC 01 Jan '26

01 Jan '26

Hi Team, I want to reaffirm my commitment and our collective responsibility to ensure an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for every member of the Rhode Island Wing. Civil Air Patrol offers an incredible program filled with opportunities to grow, serve, and lead. Every member, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to participate and thrive. It is not only our policy but also my personal philosophy that equal opportunity is a cornerstone of our success. I believe it is fundamentally disrespectful and contrary to our core values when any member impedes another’s ability to engage in or benefit from our programs. That behavior will not be tolerated. We are stronger when we lift each other up, not when we create obstacles. My door is always open. If you ever feel your ability to participate fully is hindered in any way, please let me know. We will address concerns with fairness, discretion, and urgency. Let’s continue to uphold the spirit of the Civil Air Patrol by supporting one another and ensuring that every member has the opportunity to excel. Carpe diem, Col Stan Skrabut Rhode Island Wing Interim Commander Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary (M) 307.287.8147 GoCivilAirPatrol.com<https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/> riwg.cap.gov<http://riwg.cap.gov/> [cid:5726ed3e-1337-4576-8659-52325828acdf] Volunteers serving America's communities, saving lives, and shaping futures

1 0

2026

2025

Riwg_mbrs January 2026 ----- 2026 ----- September 2026 August 2026 July 2026 June 2026 May 2026 April 2026 March 2026 February 2026 January 2026 ----- 2025 ----- December 2025 November 2025 October 2025 September 2025 August 2025

Riwg_mbrs January 2026