For the first time in history, an Indiana County resident was awarded the highest honor in the Civil Air Patrol during a ceremony Monday night.
Cadet Colonel Gwen Stahl was awarded the General Carl A. Spaatz award at the KCAC in front of colleagues, county officials and family members. General Spaatz was the first Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force and set a flight endurance record of 154 hours.
Photos courtesy of Jake Slebodnick:
Out of more than 4 million cadets enlisted in the national Civil Air Patrol, Stahl became the 2,409th recipient since its inception in 1964.
Additionally, she became just the third woman in Pennsylvania to earn this honor.
Stahl commended the efforts of her peers in achieving this award.
Stahl also said she plans to continue helping with the program.
Lt. Col. William Bracken watched Stahl grow both as an individual and as a member of the Civil Air Patrol. He said one of Stahl’s most unique features was her results-oriented mentality.
Indiana County Commissioners Robin Gorman and Sherene Hess presented Stahl with a proclamation for her efforts with the Civil Air Patrol. Gorman said Stahl has been a role model to the community and younger cadets.
Hess said that Stahl’s hard work got her to where she is today.
Lisa Stahl, Gwen’s mother, said her daughter has inspired her over the years.
Also in attendance were Sheriff Bob Fyock, Civil Air Patrol representatives and Brigadier General Duane Hart, who presented Stahl with the Spaatz Award.
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