So, who actually runs this?

I think there's still value in a non-social-media forum. The memes might be fun for some, but trying to get useful information from Reddit or Facebook can sometimes be a challenge.

I'd be open to helping out here, if needed. I don't have any experience administrating a forum, specifically, but I host several websites and have experience with that side of things (webserver configuration, certs, DNS, etc.) and would be willing to learn how to run SMF.

At the moment, I don't think it's actually possible to compete the sign up process, so that could definitely be keeping participation numbers low.

For the record I firmly believe this forum should be preserved and represents an outstanding records of CAP issues over the years.

I'd say in any case that we are done here. Not sure if there is any value of an archive of all the history on the board, but that's where we seem to be now.

Sorry but no updates since February for updates. Anyone knows anything let me know.

March 19, 2026

2nd Lt. Chester Wojnicki
GLR-IL-049
Illinois Wing

Chester Wojnicki
July 25, 1950 - March 4, 2026

Chester Wojnicki, born July 25, 1950, in Szczurowa, Poland, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was the beloved husband of Halina Wojnicki; devoted father of Beata Dempsey and Renata Sobczak; proud grandfather of Danny, Elyse, and Addison Dempsey, and Oakley and Ellie Sobczak; and great-grandfather of Daphne Dempsey. He was also a cherished brother to Anthony Wojnicki and Stanley Wojnicki.

From a young age, Chester dreamed of building a life in the United States and pursuing his passion for aviation. Through determination and hard work, he came to America and built a life he was truly proud of for himself and his family.

Aviation remained one of the greatest passions of his life. He was a longtime member of the aviation community at Chicago Executive Airport and enjoyed participating in Civil Air Patrol meetings, where he shared his knowledge and enthusiasm for flying with others.

Chester also owned and operated his own electrical and HVAC business, where he applied his strong work ethic, practical skills, and ability to fix or build almost anything.

A man of deep Catholic faith, he lived his life guided by devotion to God and love for his family.

He will be remembered for his determination, humor, and the lasting impact he had on the lives of those who knew him. His legacy lives on through the love he shared and the family he cherished.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Edmund J. Donovan
New York Wing
NY-048

Edmund J. Donovan, 79, passed away on February 11, 2026 surrounded by his family. He lived in and loved the community of Throggs Neck. He taught Physics, Earth Science and Driver's Ed for 40 years at Salesian High School. He served the Throggs Neck Community for greater than 40 years with the Auxiliary Police at the 45th precinct attaining the prestigious rank of Captain. He was lovingly known as "The Colonel" a rank he achieved with the National Guard Auxiliary. He was involved in many more organizations including the Knights of Columbus and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He loved Irish music, Doo Wop, tea and toast, and all things military. Ed was preceded in death by his parents John and Bridie, his adopted parents Mary and James Holcroft, his siblings Peggy, Sissy, and Donnie and by his wife Florence. He is survived by his four children: Edmund (Meghan), Matthew (Stephanie), Katie (Rob), and Sean (Casey). He also leaves behind six loving grandchildren: Connor, Emma (Dizzy), Troy, Lily, Reilly, and Paige. It is with a heavy heart we say goodbye to a Bronx legend. The Colonel is once again dancing with Flo to the "12th of Never" in the great ballroom in the sky.

As you were.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Larry Brown
Maine Wing
ME-035

Larry Brown of Columbia, TN, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 14, 2026. He now gets to soar the skies with the angels. Larry was born on August 3, 1954, in Woodbury, NJ, the son of Andrew E. Brown Sr. and Loretta May (Sandelier) Skermont. His stepfather, Joseph Skermont Sr., had a large influence on his life.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Kay Esther (Zobel) Brown; his loving children, Rebecca Kay Esther Bulkley and spouse, Chad, of Lewisburg, TN, and Joseph Victor Brown of Columbia, TN; his cherished grandchildren, Connor Bulkley, Alanna Bulkley, and Hunter Bulkley; his treasured brothers, Andrew E. Brown Jr. of Malaga, NJ, Edward Brown and partner, Rene Mastoddi, of Norwood, PA, and Mike Shipman and partner, Laurie Raines, of Corinth, MS; dear sister, Dorita Brown of Williamstown, NJ; and several beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his loving parents; stepmother, Emmi Brown; caring stepfather; his treasured brother, Peter Brown; and beloved stepgrandchild, Aiden Bulkley.

Larry graduated from Rutgers University (ROTC) in January 1977. He was a member of the Rutgers Queens Guard, national champion drill team and performed at the 1973 Edinburgh Military Tattoo attended by the Queen of England. He served as an USAF intelligence officer for 4 years. Then he graduated pilot training in 1982 & flew the KC-135 (air refueling tanker) 1982-1999. During this time, he upgraded to instructor/evaluator pilot and served as a Command Post Operations specialist, KC-135 simulator instructor, PACAF Exercise planner and AF Liaison to the Bangor Air National Guard. He flew in 3 combat tours: 1st Persian Gulf War, Bosnia and Kosovo. In 1988, he earned his Master of Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. After retiring from the USAF, he was a pilot for American Airlines. Larry was also a Civil Air Patrol pilot and a squadron commander for Caribou Composite Squadron and Bangor Composite Squadron in Maine. He greatly enjoyed giving orientation flights to the cadets.

He deeply loved spending time/playing games with his grandchildren. He was an avid pilot in online aviation games alongside his Check Six Squad of friends. Larry was a fan of Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Elvis Presley; and the TV shows: Big Bang Theory and Ghosts. He was a gifted storyteller. His family and friends will miss his tales of life.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Roland J. Zavada
New York Wing
NY-001

Roland "Rollie" Zavada, age 98, of Pittsford, New York, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.

Born to Susan and Oldrich Zavada, Rollie lived a remarkable life defined by service, education, innovation, and an enduring passion for aviation and motion picture technology. He earned a degree in Chemistry from Purdue University, a degree in Photographic Science from the Rochester Institute of Technology, and later an MBA from the University of Rochester.

A proud veteran of the United States Army Air Forces, Rollie served his country honorably during World War II and the Korean War. His dedication to aviation continued long after his military service through his active involvement in the Civil Air Patrol.

Rollie had a distinguished career with Eastman Kodak Company, earning numerous awards in recognition of his professional achievements and technical contributions. His expertise and passion for motion picture technology led to his involvement with the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, where he was a respected and valued member of the professional community. In recognition of his many contributions to the field of imagery, the graphic arts industry honored him by establishing an award in his name. The "Rollie" Award is presented to an individual demonstrating remarkable contributions to the industry. An enduring tribute to his impact and legacy.

Even after his retirement, Rollie continued to consult with Kodak, sharing his deep technical knowledge and expertise. His final professional assignment was to authenticate the photographic film related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy—an extraordinary responsibility that reflected the trust and respect he commanded within the field.

Flying was more than a hobby for Rollie—it was a lifelong love. Whether serving his country, volunteering with the Civil Air Patrol, or advancing motion picture technology, aviation and science remained at the heart of who he was. In addition to achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he served as Chief Check Pilot for the New York Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, mentoring and evaluating fellow pilots with the same dedication and excellence that defined his life. His career reflected both technical brilliance and a deep curiosity about the world.

Beyond his professional and aviation pursuits, Rollie enjoyed woodworking and sports car rallying. He found satisfaction in crafting with his hands and excitement on the open road—hobbies that reflected both his precision and his adventurous spirit.

Rollie is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Carol Zavada; his son Christopher Webber and his wife Andrea; his son Andrew Webber and his husband Gregg; his grandchildren Leire, Julen, Iosu, and Iker; and his great-grandchildren Ander and Zuri; his sister Doreen Guba; and numerous cousins. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, and his legacy of service, integrity, intellect, and passion will live on through all who knew and loved him.

His life was one of purpose, dedication, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

February 26, 2026

Capt. Ernest J. Drew
South Carolina Wing
SC-002

Ernest James "Jim" Drew, born September 29, 1948, in Marion, South Carolina, passed away early Saturday morning, December 13, 2025, at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, South Carolina, following an illness.

Jim was raised in Marion, where he attended school and built lifelong connections in the area. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Drew and Elsie Mae Alford Drew and by his beloved wife, Linda Collins Drew, whom he married in 1967. They shared 54 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2022.

Jim retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service with BellSouth/AT&T. Service was a defining part of Jim's life. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, stationed in San Pedro, California, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Jim also devoted his time to mentoring and leadership, serving as a Boy Scout troop leader, where he shared his love for the outdoors. An accomplished pilot, he volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol, combining his passion for flying with service to others.

Above all, Jim's greatest devotion was to his faith and his church, Mullins First Baptist Church. He served faithfully as a deacon and on numerous committees. In later years, he became the church's audio-visual specialist, implementing systems that allowed church services to be broadcast and shared with a wider community.

Jim is survived by his son, James Burke Drew (Laura) of Holly Springs, North Carolina, and his grandson, Rowan Drew; his sister, Gwen Haigh of Elgin; brothers, John Drew of Mullins and Lonnie Drew (Vickie) of Moncure, NC; his brothers-in-law, Mike Collins (Faye) of Mullins and Steve Collins (Karen) of Florence; a special friend, Stewart Hickman of Greer, SC; along with several nieces and nephews.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Terry E. Spitzer
Iowa Wing
IA-000

Terry Eugene Spitzer, 91, passed away on January 21, 2026, at his home in Kalona, Iowa, after a year-long battle with Amyloidosis.

Terry was born on September 8, 1934, in Hagerstown, Maryland, the son of Lee F. and Elsie R. (Hager) Spitzer. His family moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he graduated from Flower Bluff High School. Terry attended McPherson College in Kansas for two years. He then served in the United States Army Airborne from 1954 until 1955. Terry worked in the printing business in the Chicago area until moving to Kalona, Iowa, in 1959.

On June 4, 1960, Terry married Delores J. Yoder at the English River Church of the Brethren near South English where they were both members and Deacons. Terry and Delores were blessed with four sons: Anthony, Bruce, Craig, and David. You may notice that their children's names begin with the alphabet A, B, C, and D. Terry and Delores always said that E was for End. Terry worked at several printers in Iowa City before purchasing Kalona Graphics in 1976 which he ran for 21 years, the last 14 of which were in partnership with his son, Anthony. Terry retired from the printing business in 1997. He was a founding member of the Kalona First Responders and served as an EMT/Paramedic for Washington County Ambulance for many years. He was a charter member of the Kalona Lions Club. Terry was the pool manager and lifeguard at the Kalona swimming pool for several years and worked in security at the Riverside Casino for nearly 10 years from the time it first opened. Terry's quest for new knowledge and a new challenge continued into his later years when he studied and became a Pharmacy Technician at nearly 80 years old. Because he loved being around people, he continued to work full time until he became ill when he was 90.

His passion for aviation started early and culminated when he built the Kalona Air Park west of Kalona in 1968 and operated Kalona Flying Service teaching dozens of people the joy of flying – as his slogan said "Learn to Fly – It's Fun!" - until 2024. He was a private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor. Being awarded the Wright Brothers award for 50+ years of dedicated service in aviation safety in 2015 was a milestone in his aviation career. Terry enjoyed restoring airplanes and especially enjoyed his Piper Cub. He was also active in the Civil Air Patrol where he achieved the rank of Lt. Colonel. He was active with the Kalona area Boy Scouts, Troop 234, including taking young men to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and sponsoring an Explorer troop with a focus on aviation. Terry's love of history and antiques carried into cars as well and his most prized auto was his 1910 Ford Model T. He loved driving his red Chrysler convertible with the top down every chance he got.

Survivors include four sons: Anthony (Diane Van Hoozer) Spitzer of Kalona; Bruce Spitzer of Aurora, Illinois; Craig (Bill Aasberg) Spitzer of Kalona and David Spitzer of Milan, Illinois; four grandchildren: Cody Spitzer, Jesse (Becky) Spitzer, Travis (Teresa) Hartley, and Sheena Hartley; five great grandchildren: Mason, Braden, Sage, Aviana and Stella; sisters Joan Gould of

Sarasota, Florida; and Jeri Roberts of Corpus Christi, Texas; and sister-in-law Margaret Spitzer of Corpus Christi, Texas. Terry was preceded in death by his parents; wife Delores in 1997; two brothers: Earl (Janice) Spitzer and Howard Spitzer; and mother-in-law Emma Yoder.