South Dakota Wing Holds NESA Training Team Tabletop

Close to forty South Dakota Wing members participated in a day-long online training event Saturday (Jan 13) highlighted by mission staff training by CAP’s National Emergency Services Academy’s Mobile Training Team (NESA-MTT).

The NESA online tabletop instructor, CAP Lt. Col. Robert Ditch (pictured), led participants through a series of modules and breakout discussion sessions based on a scenario of CAP involvement in a state-wide flooding disaster mission. The topics directly addressed CAP’s involvement and practical considerations in such a mission, and also the broader picture of management of a large multi-agency disaster mission.

“Thanks especially to the folks who organized the day and led the classes,” said Lt. Col. Mike Cassidy, South Dakota Wing’s director of operations. “It was great having a good turnout for both the training and the table top exercise. Attendees included cadets and seasoned Civil Air Patrol senior members actively engaged throughout the day. Feedback has been very positive and I look forward to more of this type of training in the future. Well done all!”

Earlier in the day, South Dakota Wing instructors presented on topics including radio communications planning, the SARTOPO mapping platform for mission management, and map reading/navigation skills.

“Service is one of the core values of CAP,” said Col. Michael Marek CAP’s South Dakota Wing commander. “The lessons we have learned over the last few years about distance collaboration and learning have opened the door to opportunities to work with experts from across the country. Everything we do to elevate our experience and proficiency allows us to serve our local communities, state, tribes, and nation that much better.”