Punta Gorda, Fla. -- 1st Lt. John M. Osborn was honored for his commitment and effort over the years at a recent year end party held by the Charlotte County Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol.

Lieutenant Osborn joined CAP as a young 87 year old. "He quickly showed the younger members what volunteerism and commitment to an organization was all about," said Major Jim Kaletta, Charlotte County Squadron Commander. "It didn't take him long to get involved and to start to volunteer." To this John replied, "That's why I joined!"

Kaletta continued, "As we look back on his CAP career, none of us can remember a time when his hand was in his pocket when a volunteer was needed.  If we needed a radioman, John was there; needed a flight scanner, John was there.  He never passed up a chance to fly, so if we needed an observer for a mission, John raised his hand.  If we needed a senior member to accompany a group of cadets for the day or evening, John was the man."

It wasn't long before John got the name "Mr. Volunteer".  "He exemplifies the meaning of the word and never let us down," said Kaletta. "When a request for a volunteer went out, it was a game to see if anyone could beat John's hand in the air.  It was rare that he wasn't first.  He did lose a couple of times, however, that I can remember.  He was on vacation!" 

John was conscientious about training and took to the skill development classes right from the start. He completed training and received both A CUT and B CUT radio endorsements. He was dual qualified in both air and ground specialties; a UDF ground team qualification, and both Mission Scanner and Mission Observer qualifications. He completed the training requirements for the Airborne Digital Imaging System Operator/Cameraman and was instrumental in the Charlotte County squadron's development of the nationally utilized airborne imaging system. 

During the evening's celebration, John's service was honored. He received a commemorative plaque extolling his volunteer service on behalf of the Civil Air Patrol, the community and the nation.  He also received the Distinguished Service Medal to add to his long list of accomplishments in a short number of years.  "Receiving the Distinguished Service award is a great distinction," said Kaletta. "And for me it is an honor to recognize someone who exemplifies the core values of CAP."

This past summer, age finally caught up with John. He removed himself from flying status for safety reasons surrounding the physical demands of aircraft ingress and egress.  "This is a problem that many of us can appreciate", said Kaletta, "Mounting that plane is not the easiest of tasks ,even for the younger members!"

John loved to fly and always was eager to take over the controls when offered - "John get us to Boca Grande".  Having his wings clipped has been a real cross for him to bear. Though he has officially retired from CAP, his belief in volunteerism is strong and he has committed to continue his work with the squadron as his health permits. Commander Kaletta said, "Even if he is not around physically, it will be difficult for the members not to feel his presence." 

"John taught us many lessons about what it is to be an 'active' member of a volunteer organization. These are important lessons and the organization is better because of his efforts" said Kaletta. "His mentorship set an example that will remain a part of the Charlotte County Composite Squadron."