Cadet Wings Graduates Reflect on the Program

Hear from two recent Cadet Wings Graduates, C/Lt Col Witte and C/Col Kazemi, about their time in the program and plans for flying in the future.

I would like to personally thank the James C. Ray Flight Training Scholarship, Lt Col Mark Bailey, and the Cadet Wings Team for supporting my dream of becoming a pilot. With this scholarship, I have not only been able to earn my Private Pilot Certificate, but I have also learned how to effectively work towards difficult achievements, which is a valuable skill that I will use for the rest of my life.

I hope to continue my journey in aviation by earning my glider license and start flying for Civil Air Patrol. I would also like to get my complex and high-performance endorsements. This funding allowed me to accomplish my first step to a successful life in aviation and I will forever be grateful. Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity.

C/Lt Col Witte earned her Private Pilot Certificate on June 17th, 2024, and is Cadet Wings Graduate #331.

Having recently graduated from a Civil Air Patrol flight academy in June [2023], I was thrilled at the prospect of returning to the skies. Thanks to the Cadet Wings program, I progressed from solo flights to earning my private pilot’s license. The financial support not only facilitated this achievement but also allowed me to create lasting memories. I fondly recall flying over the UGA stadium with my instructor and taxiing alongside FedEx 767s in Chattanooga. These experiences were transformative and unforgettable.

On April 7th, 2024, I successfully passed my checkride and became a private pilot—a milestone that has profoundly changed my life. It has opened doors to numerous opportunities in my aviation career. Currently, I am pursuing additional training in Civil Air Patrol aircraft to acquire high-powered, complex aircraft, and instrument ratings. Moreover, one of my aspirations is to attend the US Air Force Academy and join their flight team, a dream now within reach thanks to the Cadet Wings program. Cadet Wings not only made me eligible but competitive for this esteemed opportunity, enhancing my flight knowledge and skills significantly.

Reflecting on my journey, I firmly believe that the Cadet Wings program is invaluable for CAP cadets like myself. It has not only enabled me to obtain my pilot’s license but has also empowered me to pursue my passion for aviation with purpose and determination. I am deeply grateful for this support and hope that this program continues to receive funding so that future aerospace enthusiasts can also achieve their dreams.

C/Col Kazemi earned his Private Pilot Certificate on April 7th, 2024, and is Cadet Wings Graduate #298.

Cadet Wings is a merit-based program for cadets pursuing a Private Pilot Certificate (PPC). Cadets complete their training at a local flight school (sometimes referred to as "FBO") or with CAP flight instructors using our CAP Cessna 172 aircraft. Funding for this program comes from the United States Air Force and other funding partners such as the Ray Foundation with the goal of developing tomorrow's aerospace leaders. To learn more about the Cadet Wings program, visit our website. Applications for the program will close on Sunday, September 15th, at 12 noon Central time.