Tri-Wing Encampment

Helpful Links -

• Tri-Wing Encampment Home Page
• 2019 Encampment Guide and Packing List
• Tri-Wing Facebook Page 
• Twitter   (not used this year)

What is it and why should I go? 

Tri-Wing Encampment is a week-long summer program that happens every year. It incorporates lessons on various careers, drilling movements, aerospace, and teaches cadets to lead others and embrace a warrior spirit as they endure through the week. TWE offers many incredible experiences, such as obstacle courses, teamwork challenges, flights in a Cessna, blackhawk or chinook, and more. Attending encampment is also a requirement for the Mitchell Award and attending NCSAs.

Contact information and location:

Camp Fretterd Readiness Center

5404 Rue Saint Lo Drive

Reisterstown, MD 21136-4540
twepersonnel@mdwg.cap.gov 

How can I go as cadre? 

The registration form for cadet cadre.

FAQ, answered by those who've been there:

Who is able to attend?

Any cadet who has gained their curry achievement is viable to attend, and will need to receive their squadron commander's approval. The cost is $200 for Maryland Wing; if this is an issue, check out the cadet encampment assistance program.

Are medications allowed?

Yes, however you will need to fill out a separate form (found here, or here for asthma), and receive the medications from the medics. However safety is a number one priority.

What can I bring?

Make sure to only bring what is included in the packing list, or it will be confiscated for the entire week. Some items on the list, such as sunscreen, will also be provided by the medics for a safer experience, and there will be little to no free time for leisurely items such as lotion.

Should I be worried about the intensity?

TWE is to help cadets grow into the best members they can be, and this can be challenging. The cadre will yell and hold high standards. Nonetheless, throughout the week as everyone adjusts, aspects will loosen up and become more fun. You will need 80% of all subjects to graduate, however as long as you show hard-work and effort, you will see that the cadre only want to help you to succeed.

Advice?

Do not over-pack, and have a regular sleep schedule and meal routine before attending encampment. Remember to work with your flight mates and develop bonds with them; you will have to rely on each other to get the most out of the experience, and improve scores. Volunteer whenever the opportunity arises, and use regular customs and courtesies. Finally, study all memory-work and manuals(CAPM 39-1 and CAPR 60-1) before arrival. 

Pros and Cons 2019 :

Pros-
-"It's a good learning experience, helped me forge bonds, and there are lots of fun things to do"
-"I met great people and got to do cool stuff"
-"I had to go out of my comfort zone a lot, but I feel that really helped me grow as a leader and as a person, and I'm excited to have more opportunities available."
-"Medics were always there to act as comfort for overwhelming situations, and health concerns"
-"You learn a lot on drill leadership and general CAP knowledge, you can also get some unforgettable experiences like riding in a black hawk, and you can meet new cadets with different cultures"
-Dietary restriction options are available for meals, and canteens are provided for continual hydration

Cons-
-"Unreliable schedule changes and the cancellation of certain activities[due to weather and timing]"
-"Time fillers, and not knowing what is going on"
-"Barracks were cold and loud",
-"Very expensive but there are grants for cadets who can't afford it"
-"It can be really intimidating at first, but the staff are well trained"
-The showers are open bay and cadets will have to rush to finish in approximately thirty seconds