What is the Spaatz Award?
The General Carl A. Spaatz Award is the highest honor a cadet can earn in the Civil Air Patrol cadet program. It is presented only after years of progressive training in leadership, aerospace education, character development, and physical fitness. Fewer than one half of one percent of all cadets ever receive this award, which includes passing a rigorous four-part examination covering leadership, moral reasoning, aerospace knowledge, and fitness. Recipients are promoted to the rank of cadet colonel upon achievement.
Civil Air Patrol cadets, their Junior ROTC counterparts, and students interested in aviation came together for a special presentation at the Gen. Carl Spaatz National U.S. Army Air Forces Museum in Boyertown, Pennsylvania. The event celebrated the legacy of the Spaatz Award, honoring decades of leadership excellence among Civil Air Patrol cadets.
The gathering marked the first stop of a public tour organized by the Spaatz Association, a group made up of current and former award recipients. The association displayed its Lifetime Achievement Award along with a large bust of General Carl “Tooey” Spaatz, a pioneer in American aviation history. The museum event brought prominence to the role of the award in shaping future leaders.
General Spaatz, for whom the award is named, was a key figure in U.S. military aviation history. He served as the first Chief of Staff of the newly formed U.S. Air Force after a distinguished World War II career commanding Army Air Forces in both Europe and the Pacific. After retiring from active duty, he became the first chairman of the Civil Air Patrol National Board.
Voices From the Event
Attendees heard from several featured speakers throughout the program. Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Keith Seiwell, founder and CEO of the museum, opened the event with an overview of its creation and mission, describing how the facility preserves aviation history and honors the legacy of General Spaatz.
Chris Boswell, appearing in full period attire as Gen. Carl “Tooey” Spaatz, shared stories from the general’s life and military career, offering insight into his leadership style and influence on modern airpower. His performance brought historical context to the significance of the award and helped younger visitors understand the connection between Spaatz’s legacy and Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program.
Maj. Julian “Cosmo” Gluck, the 2018 Air Force Times Airman of the Year and a Spaatz Award recipient, spoke about how lessons learned in Civil Air Patrol guided his development as a combat aviator. He emphasized the importance of discipline, character, and personal growth in the cadet program.
Col. Joe Abegg, Northeast Region chief of staff and a 1976 Spaatz Award recipient, offered reflections on his own path from aerospace engineer to Air Force command pilot to United Airlines captain. He highlighted the long-term value of leadership training and educational opportunities available through Civil Air Patrol.
Legacy and Impact
The Spaatz Award represents more than a personal accomplishment. It symbolizes a commitment to leadership, service, and excellence that carries forward into higher education, military careers, civilian professions, and community leadership roles. Past recipients include astronauts, military officers, engineers, and other distinguished professionals whose careers were shaped by early success in Civil Air Patrol.
During the event, CAP leaders encouraged students to pursue opportunities in aviation, leadership, and community service. While the Spaatz Award is rare, the cadet program offers multiple pathways for young people to build confidence, skills, and discipline.
Learn More and Get Involved
Civil Air Patrol welcomes adults and youth ages 12 and older who want to explore aviation, volunteer in emergency services, and support STEM education. Members can train in flight operations, search and rescue activities, communications, and youth mentorship. To explore opportunities or find a squadron near you, visit gocivilairpatrol.com.
