Commander

Since 1 December 1941, the Civil Air Patrol has stood as America’s civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force—activated by citizen volunteers who answered the nation’s call even before Pearl Harbor. From early coastal patrols to modern disaster relief, Civil Air Patrol has remained committed to service, sacrifice, and readiness.

The Clearwater Composite Squadron carries that legacy into the 21st century.

Our motto—“Exto Paratus” – Stand and Be Ready—drives everything we do. We are a multi-mission unit committed to youth leadership development, emergency response, and aerospace education. Whether responding to disasters or representing CAP on the world stage, Clearwater exemplifies professionalism, preparedness, and service.

In 2022, following the landfall of Hurricane Ian, Clearwater deployed rapidly. Ground teams conducted field assessments, provided logistics support, and delivered high-value situational awareness to mission base and emergency partners across the state.

In 2024, the squadron faced back-to-back activations in response to Hurricanes Milton and Helene, which made landfall just weeks apart. Clearwater played a lead role in both operations. During Hurricane Milton, squadron members helped develop and execute a series of ground team missions that integrated WALDO field collection with ArcGIS-based disaster reconnaissance tools. These missions enabled real-time updates to mission base status boards—delivering accurate, geotagged damage assessments across Pinellas County. One of the first deployments included ground operations into Treasure Island, one of the region’s most heavily impacted areas.

Following Hurricane Helene, the squadron again mobilized to conduct assessments and transport essential supplies. As part of the interagency coordination effort, Clearwater personnel supported VIP logistics at St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport, transporting a FEMA executive ahead of the President of the United States’ visit to the disaster zone. The mission underscored the trust placed in our unit to operate at the highest levels of visibility and responsibility.

Our commitment to service extends beyond disaster response. In June 2024, Clearwater proudly led the national Civil Air Patrol delegation to Normandy, France, in commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Squadron members participated in ceremonies at the Brittany American Cemetery and marched in the historic streets of Sainte-Mère-Église, honoring those who came before and carrying their legacy forward.

Looking ahead, Clearwater continues to innovate:

• The CAP Readiness Optimization Course (CAPROC) is shaping the next generation of mission-ready members by training cadets and adult members in integrated cohorts.
• Strategic partnerships with Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater are expanding our joint-service capabilities and operational infrastructure.
• ArcGIS Disaster Recon missions are now a core component of the squadron’s response capability—merging digital mapping with field-based reporting to provide near-instant damage analysis and post-storm situational awareness.

Clearwater trains to serve. Clearwater leads from the front. And when the call comes, Clearwater is ready. This is the way.

We invite you to join us in service to something greater.

Craig Hormes, Capt, CAP.
Clearwater Composite Squadron
Florida Wing, Civil Air Patrol