Cedar Rapids Senior Squadron (IA-051)

In 1979, the Cedar Rapids Composite Squadron that was chartered in 1941-42 was split into the Cedar Rapids Senior Squadron (IA-051) and the East Iowa Cadet Squadron (IA-078).  In November 2012, both squadrons remerged into the Cedar Rapids Composite Squadron (IA-129). The 1979 IA-051 patch was adopted sometime between 1994 and 1997 and was designed by 1st Lt Robert Cummings.

Design

The Cedar Rapids Senior Squadron emblem is a shield design composed of three elements. When the emblem was created, the Civil Air Patrol never officially adopted USAF heraldry rules and thus squadrons could use shield or disc designs. The emblem contains a red scroll and the words “SENIOR SQUADRON” in white letters. The border of the emblem is red. The background of the shield is USAF blue. The first element is an eagle located at the honor point. The eagle is facing sinister with its head at the dexter sinister position. Within the eagle’s talons is a red scroll with the words “SEMPER VIGILANS”. The second element is a green State of Iowa with a red star. The third element is the words “IOWA WING” located at the chief position and “CEDAR RAPIDS” located at the base position.

Significance and Symbology

The blue background, red trim, and white lettering is to represent the US colors. The State of Iowa outline represents the Iowa Wing. The red star represents the location of the unit within the state: Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The eagle is derived from the former Air Defense Command patch, which the designer served under while in the US Air Force. It represents the eagle displayed on the Iowa flag. The eagle is carrying a banner in its talons, which reads “Semper Vigilans” (CAP motto). This is Latin for “Always Vigilant”. The original design had major Iowa rivers drawn but were eliminated due to production requirements.