Submitted Photo Cadets and adult members prepare an aircraft for cadet orientation flights in October 2023. Photo by Jorge Miranda, Civil AIr Patrol.

Minot’s search and rescue team, Civil Air Patrol Magic City Composite Squadron, opened its doors to prospective new members this past Saturday at Avflight, 2400 N. Broadway.

Visitors came from various backgrounds, including aviation enthusiasts, AFJROTC cadets, pilots and emergency management professionals. The squadron is looking to expand its number of trained staff and be better positioned to find those who are lost and respond when the community is in need.

The squadron’s assigned aircraft, drone, emergency equipment and educational materials were on display. More than a dozen members volunteered to share CAP’s mission and their personal experiences.

Adult leaders for the cadet program will begin offering lessons for new members Tuesday, April 30, at 6:30 p.m. at Avflight. This will allow the group to complete initial training quickly and participate in emergency training at the first opportunity, though anyone aged 12 and older is welcome to join their first meeting anytime in the year. Interested individuals can stop by any Tuesday evening during a meeting to find out how to get involved.