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Pierre CAP Squadron Receives Memorial Gift

September 9, 2021

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Pierre - The family of long-time Civil Air Patrol (CAP) member Lt. Col Lois Schmidt, of Pierre, has given CAP’s Pierre Composite Squadron a memorial gift. Schmidt died August 11 at the age of 93.

“Lois was a treasured member of our Civil Air Patrol family in South Dakota,” said Capt. Ruth Carley, Pierre Composite Squadron commander. “She joined CAP as a cadet (youth member) during World War II and rejoined in 1969, serving continuously since then. Lois received the Congressional Gold Medal, presented by Governor Daugaard in 2015 for CAP service during the war years of 1941-1945 from Governor Daugaard in June of 2015.”

During a presentation ceremony on August 24, Fred and Anita Marso, Schmidt’s brother and sister-in-law told CAP members that she loved CAP. Anita Marso said that every time she went to Schmidt's home, there would be CAP paperwork on the table studying for a test or activity. The memorial contribution to CAP’s Pierre Squadron included bequest funds, and additional contributions from Schmidt and Marso family members.

The funds contributed may be used for any purpose approved by the squadron’s finance committee. Carley said that might include travel for training, purchase of needed equipment, and even possibly flight lesson scholarships for cadet members.

CAP is the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force, with responsibilities that are part of the USAF’s support to civil authorities to save lives, relieve suffering, prevent property damage and provide humanitarian assistance.

CAP has over 400 members in South Dakota. In addition to Pierre, units are located in Brookings, Custer, Miller, 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: Volunteering

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