Brandon Bates Hollifield was awarded the General Billy Mitchell Award at the Effingham Cadet Squadron meeting of the Civil Air Patrol on Aug. 5,. This award honors the late Gen. Mitchell, an aviation pioneer, advocate and staunch supporter of an independent air force for America.

The first milestone of the cadet program, the Mitchell Award is earned after completion of the first eight achievements of the cadet program. In addition, the cadet must pass a comprehensive 100-question examination covering leadership theory and aerospace topics.

Cadets who receive the General Billy Mitchell Award are also eligible for advanced placement to the grade of E-3 (airman first class) should they choose to enter the Air Force. They are also eligible for advanced credit in Air Force ROTC, various CAP scholarships and CAP special activity opportunities.

Group IV Commander Maj. Gene Warnock was on hand to present the award. Additionally, Hollifield was promoted to the rank of cadet second lieutenant, having met all of the requirements. Others receiving promotions included Cameron Exley and Austin Karp both being promoted from cadet senior airman to cadet staff sergeant.

Capt. Mark Knight presented the monthly aerospace education lesson during the meeting as well.