Character Development Program Thrives at Raleigh-Wake Composite Squadaron

By: Capt Richard Hart, CAP

CDI Instructor, Raleigh-Wake Composite Squadron

The Character Development program at the Raleigh-Wake Composite Squadron is thriving.

Under the guidance of two Character Development Instructors, the program fosters active

engagement by bringing in guest speakers and encouraging cadets to assist in leading the

monthly sessions.

One recent guest was 2d Lt Aaron Spangler from the Indiana National Guard. Lt Spangler,

until recently a vicar at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Raleigh, N.C., is working

toward becoming a military chaplain. When asked if he would visit the cadets, he readily

agreed and led a session on fortitude. The cadets responded enthusiastically, voting to

invite him back for another session. His follow-up presentation on inclusivity was equally

impactful, as he engaged cadets with his openness and down-to-earth approach. During

both sessions, Lt Spangler connected the topics to his personal experiences, providing

real-life examples. He also offered guidance to cadets during exercises. 

Assisting Lt Spanger were Cadets Delilah Hawse and Michaela Steele who organized and

led the cadets exercise session on inclusivity. Working with materials provided by the

squadron’s CDI instructor, Capt. Hart, CAP, they tailored the session to the audience by

adjusting and adding questions. Their collaborative approach resulted in significant cadet

engagement.

Another example of cadet involvement was the CDI session on Feedback. It was led by

Cadet Ethan Campbell, then the Cadet Commander of the Raleigh-Wake squadron. He

meticulously planned the session and used a detailed agenda to manage time and cadet

engagement, delivering a polished presentation.

2d Lt Heather Geary, CAP, one of the squadron's Character Development Instructors,

consistently brings fresh ideas to the program, drawing from her professional life. She

brings years of experience mentoring and coaching diverse teams and leading Scrum

Master Community of Practice. 

Both Capt Hart and Lt Geary also attend other monthly meetings and exercises,

practicing the Ministry of Presence and engaging in Cadet Programs activities outside of

the Character Development meetings. This visibility makes them approachable to both

cadets and senior members.

The Raleigh-Wake Composite Squadron is fortunate to have strong support from the

Chaplain Corps and dedicated Character Development Instructors. The future is bright,

and the well-being of our members remains a top priority.

For More Information:

Capt Richard Hart, CAP