Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Maj. Jurnee M. Acosta, Lancaster, received the inaugural Jack Weckerle Scholarship on May 15 during a meeting of the local squadron.

The Jack Weckerle Scholarship has been established for members of the Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304 by Jack Weckerle, a pilot who began his career washing airplanes and retired as captain of a Boeing 747. He enjoyed flying for CAP, introducing cadets to aviation by flying them in orientation flights. All three of his sons also became pilots. Acosta will use her $2,000 check to further her pursuit of a private pilot's license. Two of Weckerle's sons, Keith and Jack Jr., were present for the presentation. Acosta's name was added as the first entry on a plaque recognizing the award by Squadron Cmdr. Maj. Jerome Broad.

Acosta received her Pre-Solo Pilot Award through CAP training in July of 2022. As a CAP cadet, she has also received the Crisis Service Award, an Achievement Award, a Commander's Commendation and other awards.

Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304 meets each Monday, except holidays, at 7 p.m. in the Venture Jets hangar, which is located on the Lancaster Airport near the intersection of Lititz Pike and Millport Road. Visitors are welcome.

To learn more about CAP, visit http://www.GoCivilAirPatrol.com or http://www.CAP.news. For more information about the local squadron, visit http://www.JesseJones.cap.gov or search for "Jesse Jones Composite Squadron 304" on Facebook.