Civil Air Patrol

Bemidji Civil Air Patrol cadets were honored with Achievement and Character Based Awards at the squadron’s Annual Dining Out and Awards program held recently at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Bemidji.

“Major Kenneth Hartwig Cadet of the Year” Award:  C/SSgt Mandy Bushong of Bemidji

[Pictured L-R:  Major Kenneth Hartwig, C/SSgt Mandy Bushong and Minnesota Wing Commander Col. Thomas Theis]

The Cadet of the Year Award is given to the cadet who has earned the highest number of points in a year and has not won the award before.  Cadets earn points by attending meetings, participating in activities, community services, passing written and physical fitness tests, promoting, earning Top Cadet of the Night and recruiting.  Cadet of the Year recipients are given a plaque and $100.

“Major Kenneth Hartwig Cadet of the Year” Runner Up Award:  C/TSgt Christopher Madsen of Bemidji

[Pictured L-R:  Major Kenneth Hartwig, C/TSgt Christopher Madsen and Minnesota Wing Commander Col. Thomas Theis]

The Runner Up Cadet of the Year Award is given to the cadet who has earned the second highest number of points in a year.  Runner Up  Cadet of the Year recipients are given a plaque and $50.

Air Force Association Award:  Deputy Cadet Commander C/2d Lt Rebekah Schrader of Lake George

[L-R:  C/2d Lt Rebekah Schrader, Group 1 Commander Lt. Col Keith Bischoff]

Each year, each squadron may select one outstanding cadet of the year.  The Air Force Association (AFA) proudly supports these accomplished cadets with an award package containing a medal, ribbon and certificate.

VFW Officer Award: Cadet Commander C/2d Lt. Douglas Coutlee of Hines

[L-R:  C/2d Lt Douglas Coutlee, VFW Commander Bruce Malterud (hidden), Capt. Robin Helgager, 1LT Jeff Madsen]

The VFW Officer of the Year award is an annual award for the Outstanding Cadet officer at the squadron level.

VFW Non-Commissioned Officer Award went to: Squadron 1st Sgt C/MSgt David Helgager of Laporte

[L-R:  C/MSgt David Helgager, VFW Commander Bruce Malterud, Capt. Robin Helgager]

The VFW Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year award is an annual award for the Outstanding Cadet Sergeant at the squadron level.

“Major Terrence Best Service Before Self Award”: C/SSgt Mandy Bushong

[L-R:  C/SSgt Mandy Bushong, past Northland Squadron Commander,  Major Terrence Best]

This Character based award was named in honor of pastNorthland Commander, Major Terry Best.  It was created for the cadet who has shown self sacrifice and service to their fellow

cadets.  Specifically, setting the example of strength of character, integrity and teamwork. Thinking of others before themselves.  Leading by Example.

“High Speed, Low Drag” Award:  C/TSgt Christopher Madsen

[L-R:  C/TSgt Christpher Madsen, Capt. Robin Helgager]

“High Speed, Low Drag” Award:  C/TSgt Christopher Madsen

This second Northland Character Award is for the cadet who pulls their own weight, is self motivated, active in a high percentage of squadron activities, and motivates others with their positive attitude.