NJ Wing Group 223 Hosts Model Rocket Launches

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. (Aug. 20, 2026) -- Civil Air Patrol’s New Jersey Wing Group 223 hosted a low-power model rocket launch Aug. 15 at Dorbrook Recreation Area in Colts Neck, giving 22 cadets from six squadrons an opportunity to explore rocketry through hands-on aerospace education.

Participating units included Atlantic City, Bud Jackson, Jimmy Stewart, Pineland, Raritan Valley and Schweiker composite squadrons. The launch allowed cadets to apply the principles of rocketry in a safe, educational and enjoyable setting. Participants could bring their own model rockets, and 90 rockets were launched, ranging from simple single-stage designs to more advanced two-stage rockets.

The event complemented Civil Air Patrol’s aerospace education program and encouraged cadets to work toward the Model Rocketry Badge.

“Model rocketry is a great way to take aerospace education out of the classroom and put it directly into the hands of our cadets,” said Lt. Col. Michael Castania, New Jersey Wing director of aerospace education and NHQ Aerospace Education Outreach coordinator. “These launches give cadets the opportunity to apply what they have learned, experiment, solve problems and see the principles of flight and propulsion in action. Just as importantly, they can have fun while developing an appreciation for the science and technology behind aerospace.”

Maj. Rob McClellan, commander of Group 223, said the event demonstrated the value of hands-on learning.

“There is something special about watching a cadet build a rocket, prepare it for launch and then see it successfully fly,” McClellan said. “It turns aerospace education into an experience they can see, hear and feel. Whether a cadet was working toward the rocketry badge, launching for the first time or simply watching, the goal was to give everyone an opportunity to enjoy aerospace education.”

Safety was a key component of the event. Lt. Col. Vanchure served as flight safety inspector, providing guidance and ensuring the launch followed the National Association of Rocketry’s Model Rocket Safety Code. Vanchure, an Aerospace Education Member, also works with K-12 school groups to promote aerospace education.

Cadets and senior members held key staff positions during the launch. C/SMSgt Evan Grosshandler served as flight preparation officer, helping participants prepare their rockets and teaching them how to properly load the materials needed for a safe and successful launch. Capt. Joseph Podesta Jr., commander of Pineland Composite Squadron, and Lt. Joshua Toscano, range control officer, oversaw range safety. Col. Steven Tracy, a former New Jersey Wing commander, served as launch director.

Vanchure also shared techniques for improving rocket performance. Cadets learned how adjustments, such as modifying parachutes, can improve stability and flight performance.

Col. Amy Myzie, New Jersey Wing commander, attended the event and joined the cadets by successfully launching a model rocket.

The activity was open to participants interested in launching model rockets as well as those who simply wanted to observe. Cadets were encouraged to use the opportunity to work toward their Model Rocketry Badge or explore rocketry for the first time.

Civil Air Patrol’s aerospace education program uses activities such as model rocketry to help cadets develop an understanding of aerospace concepts while building skills in teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and technical proficiency.

For more information about Civil Air Patrol’s Model Rocketry program and aerospace education opportunities, visit the Civil Air Patrol Model Rocketry program.

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.

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For More Information:

Lt. Col. Bill Petzinger, CAP

1+ 609-306-0966

Email: public.affairs@njwg.cap.gov