Civil Air Patrol - NorCal Group 5 Headquarters

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - Cadet Lt. Col. Casey T. Hartwell, 16, of Sacramento Composite Squadron 14, received the General Ira C. Eaker Award on January 16, 2002.

Cadet Lt. Col. Casey Hartwell (left) receives the General Ira C. Eaker Award from Congressman Doug Ose (R-Sacramento, CA). Click to view larger photo

Congressman Doug Ose, R-Sacramento, presented the award to Hartwell, saying, "Casey has displayed an outstanding commitment to the CAP program"

Hartwell was presented the award at his high school in front of over 100 guests, including local media. Also in attendance were Hartwell's parents who are also CAP members. Other attendees included leaders from the local school district, school board, and members of the high school's Air Force Junior ROTC program, in which Casey holds the rank of Major.

Casey joined the Civil Air Patrol in 1997 at the age of 12. He had been inspired by his dad, who had also been a CAP cadet, and later a career pilot. Casey soloed last August, two weeks after turning 16. He expects to get his private pilot's license later this year.

Casey takes a very active role in CAP and is sets the example for leadership in his squadron. He has been the vice chair for the California Wing Cadet Advisory Council since last year after having previously been a representative for his squadron, and then for NorCal Group 5.

Cadet Lt.Col. Casey Hartwell (seated center), listens with his parents as Sacramento Congessman Doug Ose speaks of Casey's 'outstanding commitment' to CAP. Click to view larger photo

No stranger to hard work and achievement, Hartwell is aiming for his Spaatz award next month. He received his Mitchell in 1999, and the Earhart in 2000. Two years ago, he was awarded the Air Force Association's Cadet of the Year award.

Even with his extensive involvement in CAP, Casey still manages to maintain and 3.7 grade average and is also a member of the schools swim team.

Casey's squadron leadership has described him as a very bright young man who is very driven towards his goals, and is able to maintain the necessary discipline to achieve them. Casey describes himself as just a "normal kid." "Anyone can do what I've done if they really want to, and I really wanted it, so I did."

Casey's future goal is to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy, and become an Air Force pilot.