New Jersey Wing’s McGuire Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) recently soared to victory, clinching first place overall at the 2025 Northeast Region Cadet Competition held at Camp Smith, a New York Army National Guard installation located in Cortland Manor, NY. The team earned top honors in every scored event except one, showcasing their exceptional preparation, teamwork and leadership.
“McGuire’s outstanding performance is a testament to their discipline, leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Col Amy Myzie, Commander of New Jersey Wing. “We are incredibly proud of these cadets and their senior member mentors who supported them every step of the way.”
Representing New Jersey Wing, the McGuire Composite Squadron team competed against top cadet teams from across the region, excelling in a series of rigorous events that highlight core cadet skills. These included the Indoor and Outdoor Color Guard Practicals, a fast-paced Quiz Bowl competition testing leadership, aerospace knowledge and current events; and the Cadet Physical Fitness Test.
Each team in the competition consisted of six cadets and two adult escorts. The events are designed to test not only individual cadet knowledge and fitness but also teamwork, precision, and professionalism.
The McGuire Composite Squadron team consisted of Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Hawkins; Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hawkins; Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Sophia Loosa; Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Gabriel Carroll; Cadet Master Sergeant Amelia Kozachek; and Cadet Senior Airman Miranda Ring. The adult escorts were Captain Justin Hawkins, unit commander, and Second Lieutenant Chris Loosa.
The only event in which McGuire did not place first was the Team Leadership Problem, a scenario-based challenge designed to evaluate group decision-making and problem-solving under pressure. In that event, they finished a close second behind Vermont Wing’s Capital Composite Squadron. Despite this, the squadron’s consistency and excellence in every other category propelled them to the top overall spot. Also representing the New Jersey Wing with distinction, Jersey City Composite Squadron earned third place overall—a strong finish that highlighted the depth of talent and dedication within the state. Their efforts contributed to a proud day for the New Jersey Wing, with two of its squadrons among the top three finishers in the region.
