The
Hilton Head Sun
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July 8, 2026 • Volume 29, Issue 7 • Complimentary • HiltonHeadSun.com
A flight path to the future By Edwina Hoyle Contributor
Safety concerns grow as e-bike use rises 10A
“Man must rise above the Earth – to the top of the atmosphere and beyond – for only thus will he fully understand the world in which he lives.” – Socrates The world today is changing at speeds never experienced in history, largely due to technology. Children still dream of being astronauts, pilots of planes or helicopters, military officers, engineers and scientists. They watched in awe as the Artemis rocket circled the moon. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) can prepare them to make their dreams come true. Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots, engineers, scientists, and business leaders first explored their careers through Civil Air Patrol, the volunteer, nonprofit auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its three missions are to develop its cadets, educate Americans on the importance of aviation and space, and perform life-saving, humanitarian missions. 1st Lt. Dave Allison has served in CAP for six years at the Hilton Head Composite Squadron, located in Bluffton. He said the cadet program is for local kids from 12-18 years of age, and offers expanded opportunities for careers in aviation, aerospace, STEM careers, or the military. Dues are only $35/year. Uniforms are required and scholarships are available to assist needy families. Gently used uniforms may be available. “When the cadets first come, they are shy and lack confidence. The change is amazing in the cadets. There is significant development in confidence and it’s a great experience. They wear their uniforms, stand up straight, do lots of public speaking, and even mentor and teach new cadets,” Allison said. “The cadets progress with experience in activity and academics. As they move up in rank, they take responsibility for training others.” Through their experiences as CAP cadets, young people develop into responsible citizens and become tomorrow’s aerospace leaders. The cadet program
focuses on four elements: leadership, aerospace education, physical fitness, and character development. Civil Air Patrol follows Air Force values, customs, courtesies, and traditions, but there is no military obligation for either cadets or adult members. Cadets learn about aviation and develop leadership and teamwork skills valuable in becoming responsible adults. The year-round program typically includes a two-to-three-hour squadron meeting each week, one Saturday event every four to eight weeks, and one sevento-10-day encampment each year, usually in the summer. “CAP is not a flight school, but cadets are eligible for five flights. Flights are done out of the Hilton Head Island Airport area, and the Air Force provides the planes and maintenance support,” Allison said. In addition to the cadet program, Allison explained that CAP also offers STEM teacher programs for middle schools, career fairs, and presentations about careers in aviation for K-12 grades. An Air Expo is held in conjunction with the Beaufort County Sheriff and Beaufort County Fire and Rescue, both of which
Dolphin tour blends wildlife with education
provide helicopters. Attendees can sit in a plane and get an overview of the craft. CAP is an all-volunteer organization made up of people including retired military members, airline pilots and other community volunteers. Allison said there are 30 adults, ten of whom are pilots, and 30 cadets. Males and females are welcome, and those with special needs will be accommodated. “Many of our CAP graduates are accepted into the Air Force Academy,” Allison said. “One is now a sophomore at the Air Force Academy and is certified as a glider pilot. Another kid who went through the program is now a pilot flying corporate and regional jets. CAP offers opportunity for everybody.” Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.
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Beaufort County approves $395.3 million school district budget 44A
Kevin Breedlove makes impact at Hilton Head 54A Recreation Center