ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - Every Maryland Freestate ChalleNGe Academy class has the unique opportunity to learn about aviation from experienced pilots in the Silver Wings program.
Twenty-five cadets are selected from each class to participate in this program that is held on four Saturdays on Martin State Airport in Middle River, Md.
The cadets learn about the basics of flying and learn more about aviation careers. On the last Saturday of the program the cadets get to have the experience of flying in an airplane. After the completion of the program, they receive wings to put on their uniform, a certificate, and a Young Eagles Logbook, for recording their first flight and subsequent flights. In addition, they will also receive an access code to an online pilot training course free of charge.
During the program, cadets get a chance to visit an air traffic control tower, fly in a simulated plane, learn how to chart a course and tour the Maryland State Police Aviation Unit.
"About one thousand cadets have been through this program since it began in 1996," said Richard Knauer, a Freestate ChalleNGe Academy staff member and pilot.
Knauer said that the Freestate ChalleNGe Academy program, which is operated by Maryland National Guard, teaches students about different careers they can pursue after they graduate the program. Freestate ChalleNGe Academy, located on APG South, gives youth who withdrew from traditional high school a second chance at an education.
"This is just one of the many opportunities that cadets can receive at Freestate," Knauer said. "There are many careers in the aviation industry. Flying is a wonderful feeling; it is like soaring with the angels."
Cadets are selected for the program based on interest and points accumulated. While enrolled in the academy, cadets earn points for good behavior and academic excellence. The more points a cadet has, the more opportunities they have to be selected for special programs.
"There are many careers in the aviation industry," Knauer said. "Flying is a wonderful feeling; it is like soaring with the angels."
Cadet Kyle O'Dowd, who aspires to be a fighter pilot for the Marines, said that the Silver Wings program is an awesome opportunity.
"If you are doing everything you are supposed to (at Freestate ChalleNGe Academy) you get to go out in the community and have these experiences," he said.
O'Dowd said that he thought it was "pretty amazing" to see the police get a call to go on a mission while the cadets were touring the Maryland State Police Aviation Unit.
"We got to see what their job is really like, how they react under pressure," he said. "I want to have a job like that someday."
O'Dowd said he has been accepted into Fishburne Military Academy after he graduates from Freestate Challenge Academy.
Cadet Diamond Cheeks said that she wanted to participate in the program to conquer her fear of flying.
"It will be my first time flying," she said. "I am a little nervous but excited at the same time."
I feel fortunate to be able to give back to youngsters, help them develop an interest in aviation," said Jim Cooke, a Silver Wings volunteer, who noted that most Silver Wings volunteers are former and retired military.
Social Sharing