From the Commander

About the Commander

Major Erik Eichner joined CAP as a cadet in 2008. As a cadet, he advanced to the rank of lieutenant colonel. Maj Eichner held all leadership positions up to cadet commander and attended three encampments and National Blue Barret throughout his cadet career. As a cadet, he earned many emergency services qualifications: mission radio operator, urban direction finding team, flight line marshaller, ground team member, ground team leader, and ground branch director. As a cadet, he received 2 Commanders Commendation Medals for his actions at a SAREval and his term as CAC Wing Chair.

In 2017, Maj Eichner aged out of the cadet program and moved into the senior program. Three months into being a senior member, he was appointed Butte flight commander under the Gallatin Composite Squadron. Not too long after, with the help of his staff, the Butte flight grew to be a composite squadron. Maj Eichner currently serves in the Civil Air Patrol as a Montana Wing deputy commander and as a commander of the Butte Composite Squadron.

Commander's Statement

My vision is for the Butte Composite Squadron to continue to grow and advance our education and training as well as to increase our presence in our community. We have many opportunities for our members to grow as leaders of the future and to give back to many others before them. Our organization is volunteer but provides the members with self achievement, selfless service, and a purpose to help those around them. I will work endlessly to help my unit grow and push forward. Together as a team we will change lives of so many and be the leaders we were meant to be.

Semper Vigilans - DSNP