This article originally appeared in K8 News on December 15, 2025. Find it here.
BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. (KAIT) – The Arkansas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol marked a new chapter in its history with a change of command ceremony at the Arkansas Aeroplex, the former Blytheville Air Force Base.
The ceremony signaled the return of the 120th Composite Squadron to Blytheville after a tornado destroyed the buildings they had been using in Jonesboro, where the squadron had operated for years.
Arkansas Wing Commander Charles Rine said the organization focuses on continuous growth and community engagement.
“Always growth. You know, we’re a community program, we’re helping the cadets as a leadership program, we’re helping our community with aerospace education, and search and rescue,” Rine said.
Rine said outreach remains one of their primary objectives.
“It’s important that we continuously bring and develop our community interactions and it’s important that we’re getting back to the community,” he said.
The Civil Air Patrol serves as an auxiliary branch of the Air Force, providing aerospace education and community support. Rine described it as the “best kept secret of the Air Force.”
Outgoing commander Lt. Col. Damon Travis began his Civil Air Patrol career in Blytheville in 1971 and served as squadron commander for the third time in Jonesboro. Travis said he was excited about the return to Blytheville.
“The young people in this area are going to understand what Civil Air Patrol is all about. If they decide they want to go to the military, this is a good stepping stone for them to move into the military. If somebody is wanting to learn how to fly, this is a good stepping stone,” Travis said.
Incoming commander Capt. Andrea Street said leading the squadron’s return to Blytheville is an honor.
“We’re hoping to dig in and continue our growth. Work with the agencies in Mississippi County and other agencies in Northeast Arkansas and become an asset to the community that we serve,” Street said.
Street said the historical significance of the Arkansas Aeroplex made the relocation meaningful.
“The total historical aspect is pretty amazing. And then to come back here to Eaker Air Force Base and Blytheville Army Airfield is quite significant. It’s actually pretty amazing that we’re getting to come back here,” Street said.
All three commanders expressed excitement about the future of the 120th Composite Squadron at the Arkansas Aeroplex.
