More than 35 people turned out Oct. 1 to hear about bringing Civil Air Patrol to Wautoma. Organizers want even more at the next meeting, set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13.
They came from all walks of life. What they shared was a wish to help their community and be part of something bigger than themselves.
“Thirty-five people giving up an evening tells me this community wants this,” said Capt. George Lampere, who is leading the effort. “Now we need to turn that interest into a working unit.”
Civil Air Patrol is the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its volunteers handle emergency services, such as search and rescue and disaster relief; aerospace education; and a cadet program for young people.
For now, the Wautoma effort is recruiting adults 18 and older. A cadet program will come later, once adult members are trained and comfortable in their roles — so those who join now will help build it.
If you like airplanes, radios, drones, teaching or leading people, there’s a job for you. If you don’t have those skills yet, you can learn them. You don’t need to be a pilot or have military experience — just a willingness to learn and pitch in.
Civic groups, veterans’ organizations, fire departments, pilot groups and others who want to learn more about Civil Air Patrol are encouraged to contact Lampere.
How to get involved
Next meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 13, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Wautoma Municipal Airport FBO.
Ongoing: Starting Monday, Nov. 9, meetings will be held twice a month at the airport FBO, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Bring a friend: You don’t need to have attended the first meeting.
Questions? Contact Capt. George Lampere at George.Lampere@WICAP.US or 847-612-7451.
Thirty-five people took the first step. The next one is Oct. 13 — and there’s a seat for you.
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