Mitchell Award Receipent

Londonderry, N.H. February 25 –The Civil Air Patrol Cadet program is a youth development program that incorporates leadership skills, aerospace, aviation, and military customs and courtesies. There are multiple squadrons in all fifty states and Puerto Rico.

Londonderry High School Freshman Talia Batherwich joined the Manchester Cadet Squadron in August 2021 and became one of the squadron’s flight commanders in October 2022. On Thursday, February 9, Colonel Darin Ninness, the New Hampshire Civil Air Patrol Wing commander, presented her with the Mitchell Award, named in honor of Brigadier General Billy Mitchell. To receive the award, Talia had to pass a comprehensive leadership and aerospace exam, meet the physical fitness requirements, graduate from encampment, and pass a board of review. Only 15% of cadets in the program earn this award. For completing this milestone, Captain Julie McAdoo, the squadron commander, promoted Talia to the rank of Cadet Second Lieutenant. She is only the second cadet in the Manchester Squadron to receive this award in almost three years.

In addition to the CAP Cadet Program, Talia is on Londonderry High School’s girls’ soccer team and a member of the marching band’s drumline. Talia is considering a career in the United States Air Force after high school.

About Civil Air Patrol

Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.