Duluth Composite Squadron Heraldry (NCR-MN-016)
Click on the image to learn about our squadron.
DULUTH COMPOSITE SQUADRON
MINNESOTA WING, CIVIL AIR PATROL
U.S. AIR FORCE AUXILIARY
Motto:
Strive For Great
Serving as the squadron's guiding philosophy, this motto is a permanent reminder to push beyond the status quo. It challenges our members to rise above mediocrity, dedicating themselves to exceptional leadership and continuous personal growth.
Emblem Significance:
Silver Bridge
Represents the rich maritime and industrial heritage of the squadron's home in Duluth, Minnesota, anchored by its iconic aerial lift bridge. The choice of silver signifies structural integrity, purity of purpose, and a steadfast devotion to the region, reflecting our squadron's unwavering commitment to the growth, service, and betterment of our local community.
Ore Ship
Honors the industrial strength and maritime heritage of the Duluth-Superior harbor. Inspired by the legendary ore ships that drive Lake Superior's trade, it stands for our squadron's relentless work ethic, teamwork, and steadfast dedication to serving others.
Gold Braids
Gold symbolizes strength, honor, and exceptional leadership. Sixteen braids represent the squadron's charter number. These braids form an unbroken chain that signifies absolute unity, mutual support, and the combined strength of cadets and senior members working as one body. The braid also ties back to the rich maritime and shipping history.
CAP Charge
Honors Civil Air Patrol's historic origin under the Office of Civilian Defense. It symbolizes our squadron's spirit of courage, enthusiasm, and teamwork while representing CAP's three primary missions: Emergency Services, Aerospace Education, and Cadet Programs.
Color Symbolism
The navy blue field represents the vast expanse of aerospace and the deep waters of Lake Superior. This backdrop symbolizes vigilance, a profound depth of knowledge, and the squadron's mastery across a dual environment, mirroring Civil Air Patrol's operational reach from airborne emergency services and aerospace education down to ground team search and rescue and community-based operations.
History:
Designed by Maj. Ace Browning, Heraldry Manager, Minnesota Wing
Submitted by Maj. Justin Binion, Commander, Duluth Composite Squadron
Approved by Maj. Mike St John, Commander, Group Two
Approved by Col. Jason Suby, Commander, Minnesota Wing
Authorized July 28, 2026 by Col. Thomas Theis, Commander, North Central Region
