DANBURY, CT (25 September 2012) – Cadet Second Lieutenant Elizabeth Bell assumed command of Civil Air Patrol’s 399th Danbury Composite Squadron cadets at the unit’s annual Change of Command and Awards Ceremony.
Cadet Bell accepted the squadron guidon, and with it command of the cadet squadron, from outgoing commander Cadet Second Lieutenant Max D’Amato. Her initial goals are to start a squadron color guard and provide more training opportunities for cadets. Bell said “I welcome new members to take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities the cadet program has to offer and learn skills that are not only valuable in Civil Air Patrol, but also in life.”
Bell joined Civil Air Patrol in 2010 and served as flight sergeant, flight commander and executive officer. “By joining Civil Air Patrol I’ve learned skills that I wouldn’t have learned otherwise, such as leadership ability, how to locate missing aircraft, and how to fly a glider. The Air Force Core Values of integrity, service before self, and excellence are values I can apply to all aspects of my life” said Bell.
Cadet Bell’s achievements include earning search and rescue qualifications, completing her glider pre-solo flight, and earning the General Billy Mitchell award which denotes excellence in Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program. She participated in the 2011 Connecticut Wing Encampment, 2012 Northeast Region Cadet Leadership School and Northeast Region Glider Academy. Bell also volunteered for numerous squadron activities including shelter operations during Hurricane Irene and Winter Storm Alfred.
By Captain Peter Milano
Public Affairs Officer
399th Danbury Composite Squadron
Civil Air Patrol, Connecticut Wing
