Civil Air Patrol Marco Island Squadron Hosts Camp Mackle Rocketry Program

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Posted Wednesday, August 7, 2024 8:00 pm

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By Maj. Jesse L. Baker | Aerospace Education Officer, Marco Island Senior Squadron, Civil Air Patrol

Forty-seven children, along with their counselors, experienced the thrill of aerospace engineering as they built and launched rockets at Camp Mackle. This engaging program, hosted by the Marco Island Senior Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), provided a unique educational opportunity for local youth.

Building Enthusiasm for Aerospace Education

Camp Director Dawn Snyder expressed the campers' excitement: “The kids have been buzzing with anticipation all week for Friday’s rocket launch program.” The event kicked off with an inspiring session led by Lt. Col. Robert Nager, commander of the Marco Island Squadron. He shared the history of CAP, its community roles in search and rescue, and its contributions during hurricanes through aerial photography and environmental studies.

Lt. Col. Nager also highlighted CAP's cadet program, which allows young people to learn to fly and advance their futures through aerospace education. The children were thrilled to try on headsets used in CAP aircraft, sparking numerous questions about CAP’s operations and how they could join the organization.

Diverse Expertise and Hands-On Learning

2nd Lt. Lex Akwete, assistant aerospace officer, spoke about the diverse backgrounds within CAP, noting that not all members are pilots or former military. “Our organization benefits from a wide array of skills, from science and technology to community service,” he said.

Maj. Baker led the educational portion, explaining the differences between solid and liquid fuel rocket engines and how both were used in the Space Shuttle. Demonstrating how rockets can burn in oxygen-free space captivated the audience, transitioning smoothly into the practical session of building and launching air-powered rockets.

Launch Day Excitement

With enthusiasm high, the children constructed their rockets using card-stock cylinders, paper nose cones, and fins. Using a compression mechanism made from PVC piping and bicycle pumps, they launched their creations, with rockets reaching impressive heights and varying flight paths. After the launch, each child received a Civil Air Patrol emblem to attach to their rockets, celebrating their successful completion of the program.

Reflections and Future Plans

Reflecting on the event, Lt. Akwete shared, “It was exhilarating to see children ages 6 to 13 so excited and motivated to learn about rocketry.” Lt. Col. Nager added, “Supporting youth development through aerospace education is a core mission of Civil Air Patrol. The smiles and excitement on the children’s faces are the greatest rewards for our efforts.”

Maj. Baker concluded with a forward-looking statement, “Space is no longer the final frontier; it is an invitation to boundless exploration.”

Continued Commitment to Community Service

The Marco Island Senior Squadron remains dedicated to serving the community. Based at the Marco Island Executive Airport, the squadron conducts U.S. Air Force-assigned missions across the local area, including disaster response efforts during events like Hurricane Ian. Their work includes emergency communications, victim location, evacuation, and aerial damage assessment for state and federal agencies.

As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, CAP relies on donations to support its emergency response, education, and outreach initiatives. For more information or to donate, visit CAP’s donation page or follow them on Facebook.

Contact Information: Civil Air Patrol - Florida Wing, Marco Island Senior Squadron 2003 Mainsail Drive, PO Box 225, Naples, Florida 34114, Robert.Nager@FLWGCAP.US, 239-307-7936.

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