CAP-USAF Deputy Commander

CAP-USAF Deputy Commander Inspires CAP Cadets with Insights on an Aviation Career

MCGUIRE AFB [OCT. 21, 2024] — Civil Air Patrol-U.S. Air Force (CAP-USAF) Deputy
Commander Col. Andrew Stewart visited the Maj. Thomas B. McGuire Jr. Composite Squadron to share
his experiences and insights into a rewarding career in aviation with cadets.

Col. Amy Myzie, commander of CAP’s NJ Wing, attended the presentation during the unit’s weekly meeting at the Kish
Airman Leadership School and expressed her support for the mentorship of young aspiring aviators.
CAP-USAF, headquartered at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, provides support, advice and liaison
to Civil Air Patrol and oversight for its programs, with particular emphasis on safety and programmatic
requirements. CAP-USAF is the primary functional interface between CAP and other federal agencies.
While in the U.S. Air Force, Col. Stewart piloted the C-17 Globemaster III, a military transport aircraft
for large cargo. He also notably served at JB M-D-L in 2020 as the 305th Maintenance Squadron
commander, a role that is quite uncommon for a pilot.
Col. Stewart began his visit with an engaging presentation, highlighting the pivotal role of the 305th
Maintenance Squadron in ensuring the operational readiness of the C-17. His discussion encompassed
the challenges and rewards of a career in military aviation, emphasizing the importance of teamwork,
leadership and continuous learning.
During his address, Col. Stewart encouraged the cadets to pursue their passions and consider careers in
aviation, whether in the military or civilian sectors. He shared anecdotes from his extensive career,
illustrating how dedication and perseverance can lead to success in challenging environments.

“The future of aviation lies in the hands of the next generation,” Col Stewart stated. “It’s crucial to
inspire young individuals to explore the opportunities available to them and to pursue their dreams, no
matter how ambitious they may seem.”

After the presentation, cadets participated in a Q&A session, asking about flight training, career
progression, and daily life as a student at his alma mater, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Col.
Stewart answered each query thoughtfully, providing insights that resonated with the cadets’ aspirations.
“Col. Stewart’s visit served as a valuable reminder of the unique bond between Civil Air Patrol and the
U.S. Air Force. Our Air Force liaison officers are an important part of mentorship and community
throughout Civil Air Patrol,” said Col. Myzie. “We’re very grateful for his time, sharing knowledge and
insight about leadership and his career path with cadets.”
If you are a student between the ages of 12-18, or an adult, and interested in Civil Air Patrol, please
reach out to Lt Col Bill Petzinger via email bill.petzinger@njwg.cap.gov. Or visit the unit’s website:
https://mcguire.cap.gov.
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.