Congressman Presents Award To North Caldwell Youth

New Jersey Congressman Rodney P. Frelinghuysen presented Civil Air Patrol Curtiss-Wright Composite Squadron’s John Rogacki, a North Caldwell resident, with the Gen. Ira C. Eaker Award during a ceremony at the American Red Cross in Fairfield last week.

The General Ira C. Eaker Award is earned upon successful completion of all of all 16 achievements of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program, and is presented to cadets who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, character, fitness and aerospace education, a release stated.

Rogacki joined the Civil Air Patrol in May 2010 and currently serves as the Cadet Commander of the Curtiss-Wright Composite Squadron.

Additional leadership experiences include the National Honor Guard Academy and Regional Cadet Leadership School.

After completing his senior year at Seton Hall Preparatory School in West Orange, Rogacki plans to study engineering and pursue a career in the military, a release stated.

“In my five years of being a CAP cadet, I have learned the values of respect and excellence,” Rogacki stated. “Being part of the Civil Air Patrol has also allowed me to grow as a leader.”

About 200 of the 24,000 cadets in CAP achieve this award annually, a release stated.

The Curtiss Wright Composite Squadron meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday evenings at the American Red Cross in Fairfield. Prospective cadets, ages 12-18, and parents are welcome. For more information, email alisa.vural@njwg.cap.gov.

Photo courtesy of Keith Behrle

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