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Civil Air Patrol Remembers Veterans for Christmas

Cadets fold flag
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C/MSgt Alona Arnette, C/Amn Ysabella Bylica, C/Maj Maggie Thibodeaux and C/Amn Aliciana Bylica perform a flag folding ceremony at the North Carolina State Veterans Home in Kinston, NC. Photo Credit: C/SrA Anna Cunningham, CAP (click image to view full size)
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Goldsboro Composite Squadron Visits NC State Veterans Home in Kinston

By C/Amn Aliciana Bylica, CAP
Cadet Public Affairs Officer, NC-126

12/7/2019–KINSTON, NC–

On Saturday, 7 December 2019, the Goldsboro Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol (CAP) visited the North Carolina State Veterans Home in Kinston, NC to honor the residents this Christmas season. The visit opened with a posting of the Colors by the squadron’s Color Guard team, led by C/1st Lt Aidan Thibodeaux.

Following the posting, cadets conducted a flag folding ceremony led by C/Maj Maggie Thibodeaux. To conclude the presentation, the Honor Guard team meticulously presented the Missing in Action/Prisoner of War ceremony. The combination of these ceremonies emotionally moved many of the residents and viewers.  

C/SrA Zane Turbyfill addressed the veterans describing his father’s service and the inspiration his father and other veterans have given him “to follow their footsteps in service and sacrifice.” C/Amn Dylan Brock thanked the veterans for their service. Lastly, C/1st Lt Benjamin Michael spoke of his aspirations to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy and how CAP has helped him develop his leadership skills.  

Concluding the presentation, the cadets visited with the veterans, listening to their stories and taking to heart their words of wisdom. Alanna Cunningham, a Senior Member of CAP stated, “It was nice to see cadets meet with veterans, not only honoring them, but visiting with them. These veterans do not get the attention they deserve and they greatly appreciated it.” 

After spending time with the veterans in the social hall, the cadets went door to door handing out Christmas cards and continued to spend time with the residents. Ms. Kimberly Dixon, the Activities Director for the Veterans Home said, "The veterans thoroughly enjoyed the visit from the Goldsboro Composite Squadron on Saturday. The MIA/POW ceremony was the most touching part of the ceremony. The cadets were very polished during each demonstration."

Civil Air Patrol fosters four core values - one of which is community service. Opportunities such as this in serving the community instill an attitude of service before self and help bring the community together.