Southeast Minnesota Composite Squadron Heraldry (NCR-MN-047)
Click on the image to learn about our squadron.
SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA COMPOSITE SQUADRON
MINNESOTA WING, CIVIL AIR PATROL
U.S. AIR FORCE AUXILIARY
Motto:
Respira Ignem - Breathe Fire
A squadron member who breathes fire is one who is assertive, motivated, and leads by example. The squadron's motto reminds members to always do their very best and give maximum effort.
Emblem Significance:
White Dragon
The White Dragon, a symbol of the squadron since 1991, faces the position of honor and the direction of progress.
- White represents the purity of the squadron's cadet program and the transformation of youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders.
- The Dragon's wings are poised showing the squadron's readiness and commitment to be available when the community requires.
- The four scales on the Dragon's breast and near its heart represent the values of Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence, and Respect, which serve as the ethical framework for Civil Air Patrol's service to America.
- The Dragon's red eye reflects the red star below, showing the squadron is Always Vigilant, and represents the boldness of the squadron and its passion for service.
Map of Minnesota
This is a homage to the Minnesota Wing emblem.
- Gold is the color of wisdom, representing the continuing education and training that our members have dedicated themselves to.
- The red star identifies the location of the squadron's headquarters in Rochester, Minnesota, with the points of the star representing surrounding communities from which squadron members come.
- The Dragon protectively surrounds the area of Southeast Minnesota on the map with its tail.
CAP Charge
This is the original Civil Air Patrol symbol from the Office of Civilian Defense.
Together, the red, white, and blue fields behind it represent the squadron's patriotism and support of our great nation.
- The Dragon displays this symbol with pride.
Color Symbolism
Blue and Yellow are the colors of the U.S. Air Force, representing our relationship with, and support of the branch as its civilian auxiliary.
- Ultramarine Blue represents the sky, the primary theater of operations.
- Air Force Yellow represents the sun and the excellence required of all personnel.
Designed by Maj. Ace Browning, Historian, Southeast Minnesota Composite Squadron
Submitted by Capt. Tony Knauer, Commander, Southeast Minnesota Composite Squadron
Approved by Maj. Jeff Rezac, Commander, Group Four
Approved by Col. Bill Hienz, Commander, Minnesota Wing
Authorized November 19, 2023, by Col. John O'Neill, Commander, North Central Region
