Laconia Composite Squadron News
Laconia Composite Squadron (NH-056)
Alton Bay Ice Runway Field Trip
February 15, 2026
Alton NH - Approximately 20 members of Hawk Squadron assembled at the Alton Bay Ice Runway for an unforgettable day of learning and adventure all while the town’s Winter Carnival was happening around us!
Members enjoyed a variety of engaging activities, including a scavenger hunt, ice safety instruction, and hands-on learning about airport operations and different types of aircraft. They even learned about the airport’s mascot, Chilly! It was an exciting and educational experience for everyone involved.
A special thank you to our Pilot and Senior Member M. Polhemus, for delivering a great lesson to our cadets and sharing his knowledge and experience.
With an incredible 131 landings recorded on February 15, it was truly a great day on the ice. For many of our members, this was their first time visiting the ice runway and we look forward to continuing this amazing tradition in the years to come!
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Daughters of the American Revolution Outstanding Cadet Medal
February 5, 2026
Laconia NH - During our February leadership meeting, we were honored to welcome Jo Ann Ford, Vice Regent of the daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Mary Butler Chapter, NSDAR, of Laconia, NH. She presented the DAR Outstanding Cadet Medal to our Cadet Commander, C/Capt Mileydi Jaynes, in recognition of her dedicated service to the Civil Air Patrol program and her outstanding contributions to the local community. This prestigious award highlights her leadership, commitment to service, and positive impact on those around her. Congratulations to C/Capt Jaynes on this well-deserved honor, and thank you to the DAR Mary Butler Chapter for their continued support of our cadets and youth leadership development. Following the ceremony, Hawk Squadron cadets participated in a class on critical thinking and decision-making, using the OODA loop, led by C/Capt Jaynes.
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The Hawk Composite Squadron have a new squadron patch!
January 2026 - Laconia NH - The Hawk Composite Squadron Patch contains the following symbolism:
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Hawk: The hawk represents the squadron’s mascot and the Cadets. The hawk rising represents reaching new heights and achieving greatness, while climbing in rank and flying upward.
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Civil Air Patrol Roundel & 4 Stars: The shield displays the roundel used during World War II by Civil Air Patrol, to represent the organization. Its placement above the Golden Hawk and centered at the top of the patch represents cadets flying toward their future in the Civil Air Patrol. Next to the roundel are four stars, symbolizing CAP’s Core Values: Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence, and Respect. Together, these values guide cadets in their journey and serve as the foundation upon which their future in CAP is built.
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Red Track: Represents the cadet's pathway to excellence.
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Hawk Squadron Christmas Party 2025
December 18, 2025 - Laconia NH - On December 18, during our final meeting of 2025, the Hawk Squadron cadets hosted their annual Christmas party! The cadets celebrated a year full of accomplishments with lots of fun, laughter, and teamwork.
The squadron decorated their Christmas tree, welcomed a special visit from Santa, and played a festive gift game with him. Cadets also enjoyed exciting activities like Candy Cane Musical Chairs, Hungry Hippos, Holiday Karaoke and Wrap-a-Cadet. Delicious desserts and appetizers were generously provided by our amazing families.
To give back this holiday season, the cadets also filled out cards for the New Hampshire Veterans Home.
This celebration marked the end of a great year and the beginning of excitement for what’s ahead. Thank you to everyone who helped make 2025 such a success!
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Hawk Squadron supports Laconia 50th Anniversary Christmas Village celebration
December 4, 2025 - Laconia NH - During the evening of December 4, sixteen cadets and three adult members from the Hawk Squadron in Laconia proudly answered the call to support our community during Day 1 of the Laconia 50th Anniversary Christmas Village celebration.
Working alongside town officials including the Mayor, Fire Department, and Sheriff’s Department our cadets welcomed families into the village and helped create a fun, memorable experience for local children. They ran games, assisted with writing letters to Santa, managed the coloring station, and more.
After ensuring that every family was cared for, our cadets were able to participate in the festivities themselves and even meet Santa.
Once again, Hawk Squadron demonstrated its commitment to the Civil Air Patrol core value of Volunteer Service, stepping up without hesitation when the community needed support.
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Veterans Day 2025
November 11, 2025
Laconia NH. Cadets were invited by VFW Post 1670 to post the colors during their annual Veterans Day ceremony. Afterward, they enjoyed lunch with local veterans and spent meaningful time hearing stories about their service.
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Annual OSG Paintball Event
November 8, 2025
Center Barnstead, NH, On Saturday, November 8, cadets from the Hawk Squadron (Laconia) joined members of the Mount Washington Squadron for their annual paintball event at OSG Paintball. Throughout the day, cadets worked together in teams to complete objectives, practice communication, and build their leadership and teamwork skills all while having an exciting and action-packed time on the field!
Events like these not only bring squadrons together but also give cadets the chance to apply what they’ve learned in fun, challenging, and hands-on ways.
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Hawk Sq Members attend NER-NY Joint Wing Conference
October 25, 2025
Four members of the Hawk Squadron, New Hampshire Wing Civil Air Patrol, traveled to Lake George, New York, to participate in the NER–NY Joint Wing Conference held at the historic Fort William Henry Hotel.
The event brought together CAP members from across the Northeast Region for a weekend of professional development, collaboration, and shared learning. Attendees had the opportunity to take part in seminars, meet fellow cadets and senior members, and engage with leaders from across the organization.
Hawk Squadron’s very own C/1st Lt Jaynes distinguished herself by serving as part of the Cadet Public Affairs staff, contributing to the communication efforts that helped capture and share the highlights of the conference.
The weekend was filled with learning, networking, and camaraderie, making it a valuable and memorable experience for everyone who attended.
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Hawk Squadron Cadets Visit the Wright Museum of World War II
October 18, 2025
Wolfeboro, NH - Members from the Hawk Squadron – Laconia visited the Wright Museum of World War II in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. The trip offered an immersive educational experience that brought history to life for the young cadets. Throughout the day, cadets explored the museum’s extensive exhibits, which showcase the people, events, and innovations that shaped the course of World War II. From displays of military artifacts to interactive exhibits on the home front, the visit provided a powerful look at the challenges and triumphs of the era.
The experience allowed cadets to gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who served, both overseas and at home. By connecting directly with history, they developed a greater appreciation for the courage, ingenuity, and resilience that defined the “Greatest Generation.” This visit reflects the Hawk Squadron’s ongoing commitment to hands-on learning, leadership development, and honoring the legacy of service that continues to inspire future generations.
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Laconia Cadets Represent Hawk Squadron at EAA Young Eagles Event
October 4, 2025
Laconia, NH — Cadets from the Hawk Squadron were recently invited to take part in the local Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) chapter's annual Young Eagles event. The squadron set up a Civil Air Patrol (CAP) recruiting table to share information about CAP's mission and opportunities with attendees. As part of their display, the cadets showcased a CAP aircraft in a static exhibit, drawing interest from aviation enthusiasts of all ages. The event provided a unique platform for cadets to engage with the community and spread awareness about Civil Air Patrol’s focus on aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services.
In addition to their outreach efforts, the cadets participated in a riveting workshop hosted by EAA members Frank and Mike, gaining hands-on experience and insight into aircraft construction and maintenance techniques. The event was a success for both the EAA and CAP, strengthening community ties and inspiring the next generation of aviators.
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Gilford's Olde Home Day - Laconia NH056 - Community Service
August 22, 2025
Gilford NH - Volunteer service is a core value of Civil Air Patrol, and cadets from the Laconia Hawk Squadron demonstrated that commitment during Gilford’s annual Olde Home Day.
When town officials sought assistance for the event, held in late August, they turned to the local Civil Air Patrol squadron. Cadets responded by volunteering their time and energy to support the community celebration.
Members of the squadron arrived the day before the event to assist with setup and returned afterward to help with cleanup efforts. Their work included removing fireworks debris and trash from the field, ensuring the area was safe and clean for residents.
These cadets gave up hours of their weekend to serve their community, It’s a true example of leadership through action.
The Laconia Hawk Squadron plays an active role in events throughout the Lakes Region, encouraging cadets to lead by example through community service.
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2025 NH Wing Model Rocketry Competition - Concord NH
August 9, 2025
Concord, NH - Four cadets represented our squadron at the annual Model Rocketry Competition. They launched the rockets they built during our July meetings. Our squadron proudly won 1st place in Time Aloft.
Thank you to the cadets who attended and represented Hawk Squadron at this event: C/SrA Feinauer, C/A1C Martinez, C/CMSgt Suckling & C/SrA Pitman. Also, a special thank you to our senior members for their support: Maj Cray, Capt Glennon & Event Host: Maj Sicks-Panus
Congratulations to everyone for your hard work and excellent representation of Hawk Squadron!
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Leadership Development Night
July 3,2025
Laconia, NH - We received a special visit from NH Wing - Lt Col Darlene Cray, who joined us for some awards presentation. Her presence added a sense of honor and recognition to the evening, as cadets were acknowledged for their dedication and achievements.
C/2dLt M. Jaynes received the official “BILLY MITCHELL Milestone Award” from Lt Col Cray
C/CMSgt T. Sanschagrin receiving certificate of appreciation from Lt Col Cray
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Aerospace Education Activities
July 10, 2025
Laconia, NH - We are grateful to our AE instructors, Maj Panus and Capt Gleason, for making it possible for us to use the WinnAero Ace Academy Simulator Labs for this meeting. As Ace Academy was hosting their summer camp at the same location as our meetings.
Find out more information about the academy here: ACE Academy – WinnAero
