Change Of Command
McGuire Civil Air Patrol Squadron Announces Change of Command
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst - (March 11, 2024) –Civil Air Patrol’s Maj Thomas B. McGuire
Jr Composite Squadron hosted a Change of Command Ceremony today to officially mark the transition
of leadership from Capt Frank D’Agostino to 1st Lt Justin Hawkins. Group 225 Commander Maj Dana
Ruggieri officiated the ceremony. In addition, the McGuire Composite Squadron welcomed the new
Cadet Commander C/Maj Nathaniel Hawkins.
Capt D’Agostino will transition to deputy commander for cadets. Capt Joy Hoschek was named deputy
commander for senior members.
In his new role, 1st Lt Hawkins is poised to continue the unit's legacy of excellence and service. He
brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the Civil Air Patrol mission. His previous experience
includes positions as the unit’s aerospace education officer and education and training officer.
The Change of Command Ceremony is a significant event in the life of any Civil Air Patrol unit,
symbolizing the continuity and tradition that is at the core of the organization's values. This ceremony
took place at the Kish Airman Leadership School, and was attended by the unit’s cadets, senior members
and parents as well as representatives from Group 225.
The McGuire Composite Squadron seeks new cadet and senior members who have an interest in the
CAP's focus of Cadet Development, Aerospace Education, Emergency Services and Community
Service.
If you are a student between the ages of 12-18, or an adult, and interested in Civil Air Patrol, please
reach out to Maj. Bill Petzinger via email bill.petzinger@njwg.cap.gov. Visit the squadron’s website for
more information. 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.