Civil Air Patrol Cadets Honor Juneteenth at Ceremony
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE–DIX–LAKEHURST, N.J. (June 17, 2026) — Members of the Jersey City Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol proudly presented the colors during the opening ceremony of the NAACP Bayonne Branch's Juneteenth observance in June at 16th Street Park in Bayonne.
The squadron's color guard opened the ceremony by presenting the nation's colors, leading attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and rendering the National Anthem as the community gathered to commemorate Juneteenth National Independence Day.
In recognition of the observance, New Jersey Wing Commander Col. Amy Myzie shared a message with wing members on behalf of the New Jersey Wing Command Team, encouraging members to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth and Civil Air Patrol's enduring commitment to service.
"As we observe Juneteenth National Independence Day, we pause to reflect on an important chapter in our nation's history and the enduring values of freedom, service and unity that continue to guide us today," Myzie wrote.
She noted that Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the end of slavery and deliver the promise of freedom to those who had long awaited it.
"The spirit of Juneteenth resonates strongly with Civil Air Patrol's mission of service," Myzie said. "For more than eight decades, CAP volunteers have selflessly answered the call to serve their communities and nation through emergency services, cadet programs, aerospace education and support to our fellow citizens."
Capt. Bishoy Abdallah, commander of the Jersey City Composite Squadron, said participating in the Juneteenth observance reflected Civil Air Patrol's commitment to service and community engagement.
"It was an honor for our cadets and senior members to participate in this meaningful celebration," Abdallah said. "Presenting the colors at the NAACP Bayonne Branch's Juneteenth ceremony allowed us to honor those whose perseverance and sacrifice helped shape our nation's history while demonstrating Civil Air Patrol's commitment to service, respect and bringing communities together. I am especially proud of our cadets for representing our squadron and New Jersey Wing with professionalism and dignity."
Participating in the ceremony were Abdallah, Cadet Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Pierre-Louis, Cadet Capt. Riddhi Patel, Cadet Technical Sgt. Brandon Rodriguez, Cadet Technical Sgt. Asher Rosenfeld, and 1st Lt. Audrey Banks, the squadron's logistics officer and a member of the NAACP.
About Civil Air Patrol
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
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For More Information:
Lt. Col. Bill Petzinger, CAP
1+ 609-306-0966
Email: public.affairs@njwg.cap.gov
