Wreaths Across America is famous for the iconic scene of deep green Balsam Fir wreaths, each crowned with a bright red bow, resting against the white marble headstones of Arlington National Cemetery; these scenes have become part of America’s collective memory. Here in Minot, that same spirit lives through MinotWreaths.org, where the rows of wreaths at Rosehill Memorial Park Cemetery create a winter tableau just as moving, just as symbolic, and just as cherished by our community.
The fuel behind MinotWreaths.org is the Cadet Program of the Civil Air Patrol Magic City Composite Squadron. These young leaders and their CAP mentors are the ones who walk door to door for sponsorships, put up posters in local businesses, and who, last year, brought in over one third of the 1,000 wreath goal on their own. As autumn arrives, the cadets have once again started their engines, preparing for another season of honoring our veterans with the same determination, reverence, and teamwork that define both Wreaths Across America and Civil Air Patrol.
MinotWreaths.org will have a special presence as the Civil Air Patrol Magic City Composite Squadron opens its doors to the community for a hands on, family friendly Open House. Designed to showcase the excitement, purpose, and opportunities CAP offers youth and adults across the Minot region, representatives from MinotWreaths.org will naturally be on hand to share how the CAP cadets support veteran remembrance efforts, sponsor wreaths, and participate in the annual ceremony honoring those who served.
Wreaths Across America Minot Coordinator Robyn Stoner shared just how much the mission means to the youth who carry it forward. “Wreaths Across America has helped our CAP cadets understand the sacrifices made by the men and women who came before them; they hold a genuine love for this country. Last year, our cadets earned over one third of our 1,000 wreath goal. They walked, they talked, they persevered. They showed up in every kind of weather because they knew the mission mattered. And since 29% of every wreath sponsorship comes back to our community to fund the cadets’ program for an entire year, these young people were quite literally building and sustaining the very program that shapes them. I applaud them for lifting their squadron, their community, and the legacy of our veterans. Their effort is heartfelt, and their pride is earned.”
The Civil Air Patrol Open House will feature interactive tables staffed by senior members and CAP cadets, giving visitors the chance to ask questions, explore hands on displays, and hear directly from the youth and adults who make CAP one of Minot’s premier leadership and aerospace programs. Guests can walk through CAP’s four pillars — Aerospace Education, Leadership, Fitness, and Character Development — and meet the mentors who teach them, while engaging with the cadets who bring those values to life through service, training, and teamwork.
“We’re excited to welcome families, educators, and community members to see what CAP is all about,” said Deputy Commander for Cadets Captain Zach Haun. “Whether you’re interested in aviation, emergency services, youth leadership, or passionate about community service and honoring veterans, there’s something here for everyone.”
Visitors will have the opportunity to speak with pilot Major Ben Conlin about Cadet Orientation Flights in the CAP Cessna, and with Cadet Zeke Hoverson, a 16 year old who is in the final stages of earning his private pilot license. Local EMT and Trinity educator Brian Eveleth, who guides cadets interested in medical and emergency services careers with his real world experience, will be available, as well as Captain Darran Tiwarie, who will introduce potential cadets to CAP’s flight simulator.
In addition, Major Nolan Hulick and GTM3 Certified Cadet Jeannie DeHaan will showcase the Magic City Squadron’s new Cadet Ground Team Training program. This program prepares and certifies cadets to join the squadron’s Search and Rescue efforts as official members of the CAP Ground Team — a milestone that blends rigorous training with real world mission readiness.
Open House will be held Tuesday, September 8th, 2026 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Minot Armed Forces Reserve Center, 3420 2nd Street NE, Suite 2, Minot, ND
The event is open to the public, and anyone can see what Civil Air Patrol is all about.
