My name is Charles James, but I prefer to be called Chuck.  My jobs with the squadron consist of  being the Squadron Commander, Emergency Services Officer and  Cadet Orientation Pilot . The one I like best is when I fly with the Cadets on their Orientation Flights. I received  my Private License in late 1969 or 1970; it's been so long I can't remember.  I later earned the Commercial Pilot Certificate, Multi-Engine, and Instrument Rating.

On an orientation flight, I show the kids the various parts of the airplane and describe their functions. We go through the entire Preflight Checklist and then we apply what we've discussed and incorporate what they have learned in Aerospace Education Class by actually flying the airplane. The more flights a Cadet takes,  his/her aviation knowledge expands and it furthers his/her understanding on the safety of  flight. 

I normally bring two Cadets aboard.  We take off  and fly for about half an hour and land at a neighboring airport.  There I let the youngsters switch seats. There is nothing that comes close to  the experience of seeing a kid for the first time (under my guidance and supervision, of course) behind the controls of an airplane for the first time. I always look forward to every flight with my Cadets.

Again, I thank you for your support and trust you have placed in CAP and hope to see you on the flight line some time soon.

Sincerely Yours,

Chuck James

Squadron Commander