Civil Air Patrol Rescue Training
Posted at: 07/24/2010 6:57 PM
| Updated at: 07/24/2010 7:01 PM
By: Alan Hoglund
ahoglund@wdio.com
Civil Air Patrol squadrons meet 4 times every year. On Saturday a Minnesota group, or "wing" met at the Duluth International Airport, to practice skills they'll need, in case of an emergency.
The Civil Air Patrol goes out on missions to help find downed planes, missing people, and even help with disaster relief.
Saturday, the Civil Air Patrol gathered aircraft assigned to their "wing," and went out to simulate an actual search and rescue mission. They did, so if and when an emergency happens, they will be prepared enough to launch rescue teams in response.
The Civil Air Patrol squadrons are made up of a flight, and ground team. Lt. Col. Tom Hollenhorst said the teams cooperate to more efficiently and successfully find their targets.
A volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol told Eyewitness News the teams on the ground are composed of leaders and cadets. She said some cadets get involved with the Air Patrol in hopes to someday become pilots. They are ages 12 to 21, and during their mission training they learn skills like first aid, map reading and basic survival.
Hollenhorst said it's important because someday their skills will be put into practice.
"We do unfortunately have real live search and rescue missions each year in the state of Minnesota," said Hollenhorst.
He said there are 22 different squadrons in Minnesota alone, but the organization is spread across the nation.
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