News

MICAP holds long-awaited awards ceremony

July 11, 2021

Now that Florida Wing of the Civil Air Patrol has gone to the more relaxed Phase III restrictions, allowing up to 50 members to meet, the Marco Island Senior Squadron (MICAP) has finally had the opportunity to recognize the achievements of its members during the past year.

The achievements and awards kept piling up during the long COVID-19 pandemic months of restrictions and online meetings – because the Civil Air Patrol volunteers never rest.

Although all the Squadron meetings were virtual, members still had the opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge through online study and proficiency events that were scheduled through the COVID-19 year, while strictly following all the protocols and guidelines set forth by both the National Headquarters and CDC.

Forty seven awards were presented, in addition to several rank advancements. The promotions went to:

Robert Corriveau to Lieutenant Colonel
Steve Macera to 1st Lieutenant
Robert Nager to Lieutenant Colonel
Mark Senda to Captain

The highlight of the evening was the awarding of the Meritorious Service Award presented to the newly minted Lt Col Robert Corriveau for his outstanding duty performance as project administrator for the hangar-rebuilding project. The MICAP hangar had been destroyed by Hurricane IRMA.

The Southeast Region of the Civil Air Patrol, comprising Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee as well as the territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, has awarded Major Robert Corriveau the Meritorious Service Award on January 24, 2021. It is one of the highest awards a member can receive. It is given for an outstanding achievement or meritorious service rendered specifically on behalf of the Civil Air Patrol that clearly stands out from other achievements that have contributed most to the success of the organization in the service of our nation.

Between September 2017 and August 2020, Major Robert Corriveau has displayed exceptional leadership, professional confidence, and unusual devotion to duty in the performance of his assignment as Project Administrator and Vice Chairman of the Squadron Building Committee for the Hangar Rebuilding Project. Without exception, his responsibilities have been carried out successfully and in an exemplary manner.

Commander Boone described Corriveau's effort, "Bob never gave up when running into adversity while pushing through the complexities of seeing this project through. Managing expectations and the deliverables of all of the stakeholders including FEMA, the US Air Force, the Civil Air Patrol, the State of Florida and Collier County would have overwhelmed a lesser person. "

The commander added, "We are all volunteers and have chosen to be here to dedicate our time and efforts to Civil Air Patrol and our community. Recognizing the personal development, achievements, and promotions of our members is one of the most honorable ways we can thank them for their devotion."

The evening was a success with the members and guests enjoying an informal barbecue in the rebuilt hangar, in front of the shiny, recently polished search and rescue aircraft. The squadron still hopes to have a general open house for our Marco and Naples neighbors, once all the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Stay tuned.