Delegate Oates Flies with Virginia Civil Air Patrol

Delegate Delores Oates, representing Virginia’s 31st district, had a unique opportunity this past weekend. As a Civil Air Patrol (CAP) member, she flew over her district from the Front Royal-Warren County Airport. Captain Samantha Stahl of the Winchester Composite Squadron piloted the flight, which included aerial views of local landmarks, including Delegate Oates’ residence.

Delegate Delores Oates and Capt. Samantha Stahl gives a thumbs up before boarding the Civil Air Patrol aircraft for an orientation flight over Virginia’s 31st district.

This was Delegate Oates’ first experience flying in a small aircraft. She expressed her excitement, stating, “I was able to enjoy the beauty of our community this morning from the air thanks to Captain Samantha Stahl and the Winchester Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol. We took off at the Front Royal-Warren County Airport and cruised over the 31st District! I must admit I asked about flying lessons! Stay tuned!”

Every member of the Virginia General Assembly is also a member of the Civil Air Patrol. The Commonwealth of Virginia supports CAP’s emergency services, cadet programs, and aerospace education missions. The Virginia Wing, comprising over 2,000 members, performs volunteer efforts valued at approximately $9 million annually. The Wing operates out of 21 locations across the state.

The cadet program focuses on leadership growth and career exploration for youth aged 12 to 21. Civil Air Patrol’s aerospace education mission supports educators and outreach events like Girls in Aviation Day and STEM activities in schools. The Wing’s twelve aircraft facilitate orientation flights for cadets, some of whom go on to obtain their private pilot licenses. Members train to provide emergency response by air and ground, supporting the state during emergencies.

About Virginia Wing

Civil Air Patrol’s Virginia Wing includes 21 squadrons throughout the Commonwealth and has approximately 2,250 members, twelve light aircraft, six small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS), and 28 multi-mission vehicles. These resources support federal, state, local governments, emergency responders, and law enforcement agencies. Missions include search and rescue, homeland security, disaster relief, humanitarian assistance, and counter-drug efforts. For more information, visit Virginia Wing.

About Civil Air Patrol

Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force in 1948, the Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization focused on youth development, aerospace education, and promoting general aviation. CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Dedicated to serving communities, saving lives, and shaping futures, CAP continues to make significant contributions to American society.

For more information, visit CAP News or Go Civil Air Patrol. Follow Civil Air Patrol on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.