Civil Air Patrol (CAP) units from southcentral Pennsylvania participated in a search and rescue exercise at J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation in Newmanstown on Jan. 13. The Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304 of Lititz, Reading Composite Squadron 811, Gettysburg Composite Squadron 308, Harrisburg Composite Squadron 306, and Capital City Composite Squadron 302 participated.

The training involved various skills and scenarios that are essential for effective and safe search and rescue operations. The participants advanced their training in radio communications, first aid and transport of injured people, how to build fire and emergency shelter, how to use maps and compasses during mission conditions, and how to use open terrain search techniques. The training was led by experienced instructors who provided feedback and guidance to the trainees.

The exercises helped cadets and seniors to enhance their knowledge and abilities and identify any areas in which they may need to improve to effectively and efficiently perform mission objectives in the event that they are called to serve the community or nation during national emergencies, natural disasters, downed aircraft situations, or missing person searches. The training event also provided an opportunity for the squadron members to earn certifications and strengthen their teamwork and leadership skills.

This activity was primarily organized by the Group 2 commander, Maj. Chris Porter, and Group 2 deputy commander Maj. Jerome Broad, who is a member of the Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304. Broad has many years of emergency service mission experience.

Jesse Jones Squadron 304 meets at 7 p.m. each Monday except holidays 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 official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. To learn more about the local squadron, visit https://jessejones.cap.gov or search for "Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304" on Facebook.