Members of the Jesse Jones Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) received promotions and awards at the group's March 30 meeting.

Cadet Airmen Harrison Dean of Strasburg, Micaiah DeLeon of Columbia, Tanner Jones of East Earl, Noah Hermosillo of Wrightsville, and Hayden Greiner of York were promoted to cadet airman first class and received the Arnold Ribbon, marking their successful completion of Achievement 2. Cadet Senior Airman Gabe Catherman of Windsor was promoted to cadet staff sergeant and received the Wright Brothers Award and Certificate. This milestone signifies the completion of the first phase of the cadet program and advancement into the noncommissioned officer ranks. Cadet Staff Sgt. Julius Acosta of Lancaster and Nathan Williams of Morgantown were promoted to cadet technical sergeant and received the Rickenbacker Ribbon. Cadet Maj. Judah Acosta of Lancaster completed Achievement 15.

In addition, the Jesse Jones Composite Squadron recently named Lt. Col. Chris Porter as its new commander and recognized Lt. Col. Glenn Baugher for his dedication and leadership over the past three years. The change of command ceremony took place on April 13 and was presided over by the Pennsylvania Wing Group 2 commander, Maj. Jayson Hansen.

Porter has a long history with the Jesse Jones Squadron. He began as a cadet in the 1980s and went on to serve as squadron commander from 2016 to 2018. He has also held key leadership roles within the Pennsylvania Wing, such as deputy director of operations, homeland security officer, and Group 2 commander. His two children also participated in the Jesse Jones Squadron as cadets, continuing their family legacy in CAP.

Porter's experience, professionalism, and long-standing commitment to the CAP were factors in his selection as leader of the squadron. Porter shared that he is looking forward to supporting a program that challenges cadets, helps them grow their leadership skills, fosters community service, and provides activities that allow cadets to grow their qualifications while having fun.

During Baugher's tenure as commander, the unit supported numerous missions, provided service and support to the community, and saw both cadets and senior members advance in their training development. The cadets received many high-level commendations, were accepted to military academies, and earned private pilot licenses. Baugher also led the squadron to be awarded commendations such as Quality Squadron of the Year, Squadron of the Year, and Emergency Services Squadron of the Year.

Under Porter's leadership, the squadron remains committed to serving the community, supporting the Lancaster Airport and aviation industry, and developing the next generation of aviators, academy cadets, and leaders. The squadron meets each Monday except holidays at 7 p.m. in the Venture Jets hangar, which is located at the Lancaster Airport near the intersection of Lititz Pike and Millport Road. Visitors are welcome.

The Civil Air Patrol is the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. To learn more, visit http://www.cap.news or http://www.gocivilairpatrol.com. Information about Squadron 304 is available by following the squadron on Facebook.