Stillwater Composite Squadron Heraldry (OK103)
STILLWATER COMPOSITE SQUADRON
OKLAHOMA WING, CIVIL AIR PATROL
U.S. AIR FORCE AUXILIARY
Purpose: To establish and maintain compliance with CAP heraldic standards for unit emblems as established in CAPR 110-3, Civil Air Patrol Heraldry Program.
Historical Significance: The squadron is one of the oldest in Oklahoma Wing and has the distinct honor of being the only squadron to ever form a senior member all-female drill team. The Capettes were formed in 1962 as the only Civil Air Patrol senior member all-female drill team and traveled nationally to promote interest in ROTC programs, the Civil Air Patrol and highlight the State of Oklahoma. The team was a sensational success catapulted to national fame, traveling the country to perform at America’s military bases. The patch incorporates an eagle tying the squadron to its love of aviation and its determination to promote leadership.
Heraldry: The components of this new design and their symbolism are described below
The Eagle: The eagle symbolizes people of action, occupied with high and important matters. A person of ingenuity and quick comprehension. With its exceptional vision the eagle is a master when it comes to accuracy and timing. It is also one of the most high-flying birds in the world, speaking to the squadron’s love of aviation.
The orange feathers are a nod to the founding of the squadron in 1962 at Oklahoma State University and to the Capettes.
The five five-pointed stars symbolize courage, freedom, grit, bravery and loyalty. It is a reminder of our country’s pioneering spirit. The star honors the local community, paying tribute to the squadron’s long history with the Oklahoma State University, known as the Cowboys, and the Capettes, the only Civil Air Patrol senior member all-female drill team of the 1960s.
The five stars growing in size, from sinister to dexter, recognize the squadron’s continued growth in advancing the aerospace program. The stars are also a nod to Civil Air Patrol’s Five Pillars of Wellness and Resilience; Mind, Body, Relationships, Spirit and Family.
Blue has the heraldic name of “Az-yoor” and represents loyalty, strength of commitments and ties. The three azure feathers next to the stars represent the three prongs of Civil Air Patrol; aerospace education, emergency services and cadet programs. The color orange is a rare tincture in heraldry, it represents strength, determination and courage. The four orange feathers below the stars point to the four Core Values of Civil Air Patrol; Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence and Respect. Finally, the two azure feathers below the orange represent the squadron’s vibrant adult and cadet programs.
The Roundel: The center of our emblem is a white roundel. The colors white and gray have the heraldic name of “Argent” and represent truth and peace. Roundels are an ancient heraldic charge, consisting of a simple circular shape. Its use dates from the earliest heraldic records, circa 1244 in the canting arms of Bisset.
Annulet: An annulet is a plain circular ring. It is an ancient charge, dating from circa 1255 in the arms of John de Plessis, Earl of Warwick, possibly derived from the links composing chain armor. The two gyoolz (red) and one argent (gray) annulets in the emblem are another nod to Civil Air Patrol’s three core programs; Aerospace Education, Emergency Services and Cadet Programs.
Done on this day, the twentieth day of August, two thousand twenty-one and of the Independence of the United States of America, two hundred and forty-five.
Design and Artwork: Capt. Brandon W. Lunsford, Sr
Reviewed by NHQ Historian Staff: Maj. Timothy Thornton, 20 Aug 2021
Coordinated Through Oklahoma Wing Commander: Col. Aaron E. Oliver, 20 Aug 2021
Approved by Southwest Region Commander: Col Martha C. Morris, 20 Aug 2021
