CHESTERFIELD, Va. -- An F-22 instructor pilot from the 192nd Fighter Wing briefed aviation weather and combat aviation to Civil Air Patrol cadets at the VA-060 Southside Composite Squadron of the Virginia Wing, Nov. 28, 2017, in Chesterfield, Virginia.
Virginia Air National Guard Maj. Mongo, 149th Fighter Squadron chief of weapons, gave the presentation as a part of the CAP's Aerospace Education program designed to teach cadets on different aspects of aviation and aerospace.
"Maj. Mongo selflessly took time from his busy schedule… to spread his passion for aviation to the next generation of aviators. He engaged these young cadets in a way that drew a very strong interest,” said CAP Aerospace Education Officer 1st Lt. Daniel "Bud" Oakey. "This type of community outreach, where VaANG professionals have direct impact on the lives of our neighbors, is exactly what the VaANG is, people doing amazing things all the time.”
"Because a lot of our Virginia Guardsmen are citizen soldiers, we have a unique opportunity to give back and help mold the younger generation of up and coming civil and military leaders within the communities we call home. The Chesterfield Civil Air Patrol is one of those coummunites,” said Maj. Mongo. “Getting a chance to meet some of the cadets we've flown with, watch their drill, commanders and young leaders reminded me that our future is in good hands. Maybe we'll be flying side-by-side in F-22s someday soon."
As a total force partner and auxiliary of the United States Air Force, the CAP performs search and rescue missions, provides comfort in times of disaster and works to keep the homeland safe. Its 56,000 members selflessly devote their time, energy and expertise toward the well-being of their communities. Additionally, they promote aviation and related fields through aerospace science and technology education and help shape future leaders through CAP's cadet program offered to youths, ages 12 to 21. The program includes aerospace education, leadership training, physical fitness and moral leadership.