AFA Recognizes Civil Air Patrol Cadets with National Aerospace Education Award 

The Air & Space Forces Association has been a 30-year partner with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) to recognize cadets who exemplify excellence in aerospace education, leadership, and service. Through the AFA Education Council’s annual National Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Cadet of the Year Award, AFA highlights young leaders whose achievements reflect both organizations’ shared mission: developing citizens of character and advancing aerospace and STEM literacy nationwide.

The 2025 honoree, Cadet Capt. Daniel J. O’Connell of Missouri Wing’s Platte Valley CAP Composite Squadron, stands as a powerful example of how AFA recognition celebrates not just academic achievement, but innovation and impact. O’Connell demonstrates exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing aerospace and cyber education across the Kansas City region. 

Advancing Aerospace Education in CAP

O’Connell has been a driving force in expanding aerospace learning within his squadron. He played a key leadership role in the squadron’s model rocketry program, guiding cadets through propulsion and trajectory concepts while supporting multiple successful launches. His hands‑on instruction increased cadet engagement and improved understanding of core aerospace principles.

He further expanded outreach during a collaborative Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Young Eagles flight event, assisting with flight line operations and introducing youth to aviation and CAP opportunities. His participation strengthened community partnerships and connected young people to aerospace pathways.

Leadership in UAS and Cyber Operations

Recognizing the growing importance of unmanned aerial systems, O’Connell helped lead drone training for cadets, co‑teaching mini‑quadcopter flight skills and encouraging interest in UAS‑related career fields.

His cyber education contributions have been among his most notable accomplishments. He helped present an interactive cybersecurity game for CAP cadets, supported an AFA CyberPatriot CyberCamp hosted at Summit Tech Academy, and competed on a multi‑squadron CyberPatriot team that advanced to the elite Platinum Tier at the state level.

O’Connell also served on his high school’s CyberPatriot team, which placed fifth nationally in the semifinal round, demonstrating deep technical ability and teamwork.

One signature project was the creation of an accessible cybersecurity escape room designed specifically for youth who are blind or visually impaired. The project expanded the reach of STEM education and exemplified inclusive, mission‑focused innovation.

Commitment to Aviation Training

In addition to his instructional work, O’Connell has continued advancing his own aviation goals. He has logged multiple CAP orientation flights, progressed toward his glider private pilot license, and completed his powered solo flight with Aspire Aviation Academy in Kansas City. As a high school senior this year, he is dual‑enrolled in college aviation coursework at Metropolitan Community College in preparation for a career in professional flight. Next fall, he plans to begin his major in commercial aviation at the University of North Dakota.

Embodiment of AFA and CAP Values

Lt. Col. Clyde M. McNally, commander of the Platte Valley Composite Squadron, praised O’Connell’s achievement, noting, “C/Captain O’Connell represents the best of Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program—forward‑thinking, service‑minded, and dedicated to the future of aerospace.”

O’Connell’s influence has extended far beyond his home squadron, shaping youth programs, cyber teams, and aerospace activities across the Kansas City metro area.

AFA’s Enduring Partnership with CAP

Through the Aerospace Education Cadet of the Year Award, AFA reinforces its strong partnership with CAP in inspiring and educating the next generation of aerospace leaders. Recognizing outstanding cadets highlights the remarkable achievements taking place within CAP. Honoring the national awardee at AFA’s annual Air, Space, & Cyber Conference brings well‑deserved visibility to these exceptional young leaders. Cadet Capt. O’Connell’s accomplishments exemplify the power of this partnership and reflect the innovative, service‑centered spirit AFA works to foster across the nation.