Archive for November 21, 2014

| November 21, 2014
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OCS CADETS EARN AEROSPACE EXCELLENCE AWARD

By 1stLt Eric Perquin, Aerospace Education Officer

OCS 2014 AEX recognition Award

Upon resuming the task of the Squadron Aerospace Education Officer (AEO) one of the first tasks was to meet with the Cadet Staff and get their input on what they would like to achieve for the year. One of the goals they set forth was to achieve the Civil Air Patrols Aerospace Excellence Award. Another request was to start the Model Rocketry Program.  Their wish was my challenge.

The next step was to let the Cadets know what was expected of them and how much effort would be required to complete our objectives, and they did not disappoint. We chose some of the AEX activities to tie in with Model Rocketry in an effort to achieve both goals. Enthusiasm filled the classroom during every meeting.

LtCol Robert McCartney accepts the AEX award from 1stLt Eric Perquin on behalf of the Squadron

Cadet Aerospace Officer C/LtCol Christopher Pineda was instrumental in the program’s success along with assistance from C/Majors Henry and Norrie. Their ability to maintain discipline in the classroom and their knowledge of the subjects at hand were invaluable.

Congratulations to the Cadets of Omaha Composite Squadron, the Cadet Staff and the Senior Members who made this award possible. Excellence indeed.

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| November 19, 2014
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OCS TAKES AEROSPACE EDUCATION TO THE WATER

By 1stLt Eric Perquin, CAP.
Omaha Composite Squadron Aerospace Education Officer

 

Cadets receive a briefing prior to the exercise

In Aerospace Education it is not ‘Rocket Science’ figuring out that Cadets prefer a hands on approach over a classroom presentation. As the old adage goes, “the best way to learn something is to get your hands dirty” or in this case “wet”. With that in mind the Omaha Composite Squadrons AE program set about to try a new approach to demonstrating aerodynamics: Kayaking.

Cadets prepare to launch kayaks

Upon meeting at the Lake Wherspan boat ramp the Cadets were given some basic instructions on the fundamentals of kayaking. On hand were 8 kayaks representing 4 different hull designs. After a safety briefing and a gear check it was time to hit the water.

 

Now this is a classroom!

After a few minutes of familiarization with the handling of their kayaks we moved on to the experiments. It became immediately apparent that the boats handled differently depending on the design. We discussed the principles of Pitch, Roll and Yaw and applied them to the kayaks stability in the water. Two hull designs were very maneuverable but less stable. Another had the handling characteristics of a B-52 yet was smooth as silk through the water. Our fourth design was a pleasing compromise between the other two. Cadets also noticed that the more maneuverable the kayaks were the slower and harder they were to maintain in a straight line.

 

Unfortunately time was limited and our event ended way to soon. The Cadets took a lot out of our experiment and had a great time in the process. Armed with its success, we will be planning a weekend event next summer. Special thanks to Maj J Pineda for brining his kayaks and acting as our safety officer. Also to C/Maj C Pineda for his assistance in getting to activity together. Paddle on.

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