CAP Supports Air Guard Homeland Security Training on 9-11 Anniversary
A South Dakota Wing, CAP aircrew marked the anniversary of the 9-11 attacks by performing a Homeland Security mission for the South Dakota Air National Guard’s 175th Fighter Squadron.
The volunteer CAP aircrew simulated an unidentified aircraft in controlled airspace. It is the mission of the Air Guard F-16s to intercept and identify such aircraft. The Fighter Squadron pilots receive special training for such intercepts. The intercepts require elaborate coordination procedures, slower flight than usual for an F-16 and other special requirements of such missions.
“The training that Civil Air Patrol provides the 175th Fighter Squadron via the Keynote program is invaluable to our role as defenders of the homeland,” said Lt. Col. Ryan “Ike” Shuck, the 114 Fighter Wing alert officer. “They are the best available representation of a real-world scenario that we can’t replicate on our own. The Lobos are always grateful for the unique support that CAP provides.”
The training on September 11 was not formally a remembrance of the 2001 attacks, but the date was meaningful to the CAP and Guard aircrews.
“It was an absolute honor to serve as Pilot in Command with the Civil Air Patrol, supporting the 114 Fighter Wing and 175 Fighter Squadron Lobos in this vital mission for our nation’s defense,” said 2nd. Lt. Thor Bardon, CAP. “On the 23rd anniversary of September 11, the significance of working alongside such dedicated and professional teams is deeply felt. Their commitment to the mission of protecting our country is truly inspiring, and I’m proud that CAP could play a role in ensuring the highest level of readiness and training.”
