Marion County Composite Squadron

SER-FL-361

"Home of the Valkyries"

December 2008 Cadet Orientation Flights

By Lt Col Rick Bishop

The 361st Marion County Composite Squadron sponsored Orientation Rides for numerous cadets on 12-13 December 2008. On the first full day of flying, newly inducted 361st cadets from the recently formed Francis Marion Military Academy got their first chance at handling the controls of either a Cessna 172 or 182.

For the vast majority, it was their first time aloft and none of the cadets had ever piloted an actual aircraft. On the second day 361st cadets from the long established Ocala squadron took to the air for their first and second orientation flights which concluded in the late afternoon.

Senior member Mission Pilots provided ground and flight instruction for the eager fledglings while other Senior Members kept busy with communication and safety, making the experience most enjoyable for everyone involved.