Local cadet earns Billy Mitchell award

Luke Pentz, 13, of Emlenton was promoted on June 23 to the rank of cadet second lieutenant and was formally recognized by the Franklin squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) for earning the Major General William “Billy” Mitchell Award. He is pictured with CAP special guest, U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. Cresswell of the 311th Recruiting Squadron, in Franklin. To earn the award, cadets must pass a series of leadership and aerospace exams and physical fitness tests, attend character development classes and give oral presentations, and graduate from an intensive military-style basic encampment. Nationwide, only 15% of all cadets achieve this level. Mitchell cadets are looked on favorably when applying for the U.S. Air Force Academy and, if they enlist in the U.S. Air Force, are promoted to Airman First Class upon completion of Basic Military Training.