NJ Wing Cadet Receives Eaker Award During Encampment Visit by JB MDL Commander
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE–DIX–LAKEHURST, N.J. (Aug. 17, 2026) — Civil Air Patrol Cadet Lt. Col. Luke Patterson, a member of the Jack Schweiker Composite Squadron, was presented with the General Ira C. Eaker Award during the New Jersey Wing’s Basic Encampment at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JB MDL), recognizing his outstanding achievement in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program.
The award was presented by U.S. Air Force Col. Michael Stefanovic, Commander, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and the 87th Air Base Wing. Stefanovic served as the keynote speaker during Day 1 of the encampment, addressing cadets on military leadership and answering questions about leadership, service and life in the Air Force.
The General Ira C. Eaker Award is one of the highest achievements in Civil Air Patrol’s Cadet Program. It recognizes cadets who successfully complete the requirements for the Eaker milestone, demonstrating leadership, character, commitment and continued achievement in the program.
“Leadership is not simply about having a position or a title,” Stefanovic told the cadets. “It is about earning the trust of the people around you, setting the example and being willing to accept responsibility. Those are qualities that will serve you well regardless of the path you choose in life.”
Following his presentation, Stefanovic spent time answering questions from the cadets, discussing military leadership and sharing insights from his experience as an Air Force officer.
“Having Col. Stefanovic speak directly with our cadets was an exceptional opportunity,” said New Jersey Wing Commander Col. Amy Myzie. “Our cadets were able to hear firsthand what leadership looks like from someone who leads a major military installation and Air Force wing. His message reinforced what we strive to teach through Civil Air Patrol: that effective leadership is built on integrity, service, responsibility and setting the right example.”
The Eaker Award represents a significant milestone in Patterson’s Civil Air Patrol career and reflects his continued development as a cadet leader.
“Cadet Lt. Col. Patterson’s achievement is a testament to his dedication and hard work,” Myzie said. “The Eaker Award is not simply an accomplishment to be checked off a list. It represents the leadership growth, perseverance and commitment that a cadet demonstrates over years of participation in Civil Air Patrol.”
New Jersey Wing’s Basic Encampment brings cadets from across the state together for an intensive week of leadership development, military customs and courtesies, physical fitness, aerospace education, emergency services training and teamwork. The program challenges cadets to develop confidence and leadership skills while working as members of a team.
The opportunity to hear from senior military leaders such as Stefanovic adds another dimension to the encampment experience, allowing cadets to connect the leadership principles they learn in Civil Air Patrol with the experiences of military professionals.
For Patterson, receiving the Eaker Award during encampment provided a fitting recognition of his accomplishments in front of fellow cadets and senior leaders.
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.
Visit CAP.news or GoCivilAirPatrol.com for more information. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
-30-
For More Information:
Lt. Col. Bill Petzinger, CAP
1+ 609-306-0966
Email: public.affairs@njwg.cap.gov
