Civil Air Patrol Assists South Dakota Air National Guard Training Mission
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Civil Air Patrol’s South Dakota Wing played a crucial part in South Dakota Air National Guard 114th Fighter Wing aerial intercept training March 16.
Wing pilots simulated adversary aircraft flying in restricted airspace. The training exercise, known as “Felix Keynote,” helped the Air National Guard’s F-16 pilots prepare for the possible need to intercept aircraft experiencing emergencies, violations of Temporary Flight Restriction areas, and other aerial incidents.
“We really appreciate the support Civil Air Patrol provides us via the Felix Keynote program,” said Maj. Ryan “Ike” Shuck of the Air National Guard. “They provide a platform that allows us to accurately practice homeland defense, and their dedication and professionalism make working with them a pleasure. The dissimilar training is invaluable to our ability to be successful in this no-fail mission.”
CAP is the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force, with responsibilities that are part of the Air Force support to civil authorities to save lives, relieve suffering, prevent property damage and provide humanitarian assistance. In addition, CAP promotes aerospace education, and its cadet program develops leadership among young people.
"It is always my pleasure to assist the South Dakota Wing as the incident commander for their missions,” said Col. John Seten, a past South Dakota Wing commander and now emergency services officer for CAP’s North Central Region. “Intercept missions are especially important because they allow CAP to work with our parent organization, the U.S. Air Force, and assist them in training for the security of our nation's airspace."
With close to 400 members in South Dakota and units in Brookings, Custer, Miller/Faulkton, Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Spearfish and Tea, the wing can deploy its six aircraft, ground teams and small search drones to assist in disaster response and other support to local, state, tribal and federal agencies.
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Civil Air Patrol’s South Dakota Wing played a crucial part in South Dakota Air National Guard 114th Fighter Wing aerial intercept training March 16.