Illinois Squadron Awarded Region Squadron of Distinction 2008

1st Lt. Tenia Hayslett (center) of Cornelius Coffey Composite Squadron stands with Lt. Col. Al Reynoso, Illinois Wing Group 2 Commander (left) and Lt. Col. Rick Oeth, Illinois Wing Vice Commander after the presentation of the certificate and streamer recognizing the squadron's award of Great Lakes Region Squadron of Distinction 2008
(Photo by Capt. James Kalemis)

GREAT LAKES, Ill -- The 2008 Great Lakes Region Squadron of Distinction was awarded to Illinois Wing's Cornelius Coffey Composite Squadron at the Graduation ceremony of the Illinois Wing Spring Encampment held on April 27th in the USS Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall, Recruit Training Center, Naval Station Great Lakes.  The presentation of the certificate and streamer was made by Illinois Wing Vice Commander, Lt. Col. Rick Oeth and Illinois Wing Group 2 Commander, Lt. Col. Al Reynoso to 1st Lt. Tenia Hayslett; Lt. Hayslett accepted them on behalf of the squadron's commander Capt. Susie McGee who was unable to attend the event. 

According to the National Headquarters website, each year, Region Commanders select one outstanding cadet or composite squadron from the region to be the Squadron of Distinction (SOD) for the year.

The criteria for this award is detailed in Award of CAP Medals, Ribbons, and Certificates, CAPR 39-3, paragraphs 27 – 28, which includes:
a. A minimum of 12 cadets on 1 January
b. An active cadet recruiting and retention program
c. Number of cadet milestone awards (Wright Brothers, Mitchell, Earhart, Eaker and Spaatz)
d. Number of cadet first-time encampment attendees
e. Participation in the orientation flight program
f. Percentage of cadets flying the back seat (code “99”) orientation flights.

The selected squadron will be the "Squadron of Distinction" winner and will receive a Squadron of Distinction certificate and streamer. Data used to help determine the award winner will be based upon calendar year data of the prior year.