19028 Thunderbolt Cadet Squadron is an active Cadet Squadron of the Mass Wing of the Civil Air Patrol.
Leadership
The hallmark of The Cadet Program is Leadership development. As a military organization, you will learn military customs and courtesies. Cadets progress through the program earning Air Force Auxiliary Cadet Grades from the non-commissioned to commissioned grades. Each grade is earned by demonstrating
knowledge and ability to perform both leadership and aerospace skills. You hone your knowlege by performing in various command positions within the Squadron. Officer grades are earned by superior performance of duty over time and progression through the development programs. Cadets who have earned their promotion to the grade of flight officer are rewarded by recogition in the Armed Forces to automatic promotion to E2 upon entering Basic Training. Cadet Officers can earn grades up to Colonel, called the Spaatz award, usually awarded by the National Commander.
Aerospace
Cadets participate in Orientation Flights on Corporate owned Cessna 172's and 182s. Cadets can also fly on refueling missions from Pease Air Reserve Base or 'Fly' a C-130 Simulator at Westover Air Base.
Two Cadet's recently earned their SOLO WINGS at the Mass Wing Flight Encampment at Otis Air Reserve Base.
Ground Team
Thunderbolt Cadet Squadron's ground team is tough to follow! They train hard in physical fitness to be always ready. The Ground Team trains 3 days a week to meet the tough challanges that may be presented on search and rescue missions. The Ground Team carries beepers for instant notification of a mission. Members also attend the Ranger School, held at Otis Air Base one weekend a month. Qualified Ground Team members are certified in First Aid, Healthcare Provider CPR, Orienteering, Navigation, Woodsmanship, Survival, Legal issues, Triage, Radio Communications, Emergency Services and Air Support.
Drill Team
The drill team marches in parades and ceremonies for the public. They also compete in the Wing competition
and if really good, would represent the Mass Wing at Nationals.
Senior Program
The primary focus of Senior Members of Thunderbolt is to develop and provide an enviroment for the Cadets.
Many roles are filled by Senior members, Administration, Finance, Personell and Public Relations just to name a few. Those roles are vital to keep the squadron running smoothly. All senior members also choose areas of speciality. Cadet programs, Safety, Logistics and Supply, Aerospace Education, Flight Operations, Operations, Communications, Emergency Services and Medical are all needed for a complete program. All areas of speciality have three levels of proficiency, Technician, Senior and Master, that must be earned through training and experiance. There are a host of Senior training programs that are held throughout the state each year. Seniors progress through the Civil Air Patrol officer grades based on levels of training recieved, time in grade and duty performance. Courses taken through the Air Force Extention Course Institute may qualify toward local college credits. Advancement to senior executive ranks is earned by attending week long National Schools, taught by Military Instructors at Military Institutions.
The Senior Members in a Cadet Squadron are the vital link in the operation of the squadron. They participate actively in all squadron operations and missions.
