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Klosterman Instated as New Cadet Commander at Big Sioux Composite Squadron

January 24, 2022

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Brookings – Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Lydia Klosterman, of Brandon, is the new cadet commander of Civil Air Patrol (CAP)’s Big Sioux Composite Squadron, following a change of command ceremony on Thursday, January 20, 2022, held at the Brookings Airport. Colonel Michael Marek, South Dakota Wing’s Commander, participated in the ceremony and fielded questions from squadron members afterward.

Klosterman has been preparing for her new role for several months. Captain Tyler Gross, Big Sioux’s Commander, and 1st Lieutenant Rudy Trias, Big Sioux’s Deputy Commander, are both confident that she will encourage the cadets to take more leadership roles and continue mentoring newer members, help organize activities for cadet learning and development, and continue in her own training.

“Over a 4-month period, through many tasks and interviews, she has proven she is the right choice for the Cadet Commander position of Big Sioux,” said 1st Lieutenant Trias. “These past few months she has presented pride and professionalism, and she holds the ideal character for a fine Cadet Commander. Congratulations to C/2nd Lieutenant Klosterman!”

Klosterman has been an active member of Big Sioux Composite Squadron since early 2018. During her first year in CAP, Klosterman competed in the National Cadet Competition. She received a Region-level Commander’s Commendation in 2020 for the support she provided to the North Central Region’s inaugural virtual conference, helping to ensure a successful event for the over 900 registrants. Locally, Klosterman has participated on Big Sioux’s CyberPatriot team for multiple seasons and plans to compete again in the next CyberPatriot season.

Big Sioux had the honor of Colonel Marek attending and participating in the Change of Command Ceremony. Along with being involved in the ceremony, Marek discussed CAP activities and members’ goals for the coming year. “With Phase 1 implemented, we still are looking forward to all the activities and events that are scheduled,” said Trias. “Colonel Marek had a Q&A with our members and provided a good sense of morality provided the current events that are happening around the world today. Thank you, Sir, for visiting our Squadron.”

The CAP Cadet Program develops young leaders, ages 12 and up. Cadet members are challenged and rewarded with the confidence, self-worth, and accomplishment that comes from rising to the occasion and making a real and measurable difference.

Big Sioux Composite Squadron meets every Thursday at 5:30 PM at 413 W Second St S, Brookings, SD 57006. Adults (18+) interested in becoming involved with Civil Air Patrol may contact the Squadron Commander, Capt. Tyler Gross, via email at Tyler.Gross@sdwg.cap.gov. Youth interested in joining the cadet program (over age 12, but younger than 18) may contact the Deputy Commander of Cadets, 1st Lt. Rudy Trias, via email at Rudy.Trias@sdwg.cap.gov.

South Dakota Wing, CAP, has close to 400 members with units based in Brookings, Custer, Miller/Faulkton, Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Spearfish and Tea. The wing can deploy its six aircraft, ground teams, and small search drones to assist in emergency response and other support to local, state, tribal and federal agencies.

Tagged As: Change of Command

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