The North Carolina Wing Cadet Competition in 2026 introduced several changes to its format, shifting from a team-based approach to one that emphasizes individual performance. According to event organizers, cadets could now sign up either as individuals or as part of a traditional team. Individual competitors were grouped into “pseudo-teams” for the duration of the event. Teams wishing to compete together had the option to participate in Color Guard categories, but these choices did not affect final scoring.
Scoring procedures also changed this year. Instead of awarding overall placements, each event had its own separate award. Organizers stated that these updates were made to align with practices at the Mid-Atlantic Region Cadet Competition.
Four teams participated in this year’s competition, representing six different squadrons: 111th Search and Rescue Composite Squadron (NC-111th), Asheville Composite Squadron (NC-019), Apex Cadet Squadron (NC-301), Cape Fear Composite Squadron (NC-023), Iredell Composite Squadron (NC-162), and Johnston County Composite Squadron (NC-143).
Cadets competed in seven required events: Public Speaking, Team Leadership Problem, Uniform Inspection, Standard Drill, Standard Written Exam, Aerospace Exam, and the Cadet Physical Fitness Test. Two optional Color Guard events—Parade Sequence and Indoor Posting—were also available. Awards were given per event rather than for overall placement.
The competition began on Friday evening with check-in and an orientation session led by Cadet Adjutant C/Lt Col Zachary Partin. Activity Director 1st Lt Ian Barnes conducted a safety briefing and Lt Col Daniel Guadelupe spoke about team spirit before competitors took the Standard Written Exam.
Saturday’s schedule started early with the Physical Cadet Fitness Test followed by other competitive events throughout the day. Judges used breaks between activities to reset while cadets prepared for upcoming events. After dinner, participants completed the Aerospace Education Exam before scores were finalized.
On Sunday morning, after room inspections, cadets gathered for an awards ceremony attended by North Carolina Wing Commander Colonel Brendan Kearns; Chief Master Sergeant Chris Cozzi; and Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Guadelupe.
During the ceremony, C/Lt Col Diana Good served as Master of Ceremony and welcomed remarks from several leaders before awards were distributed. Three outstanding members received coins for their contributions: “C/CMSgt John Appleton for his outstanding sportsmanship,” “C/Capt Alilah Richardson for her outstanding leadership,” and “1stLt Calvin Williamson for his outstanding leadership.”
Group awards included:
Public Speaking – NC-143 (Johnston County Composite Squadron)
Parade Sequence – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Standard Element Drill – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Indoor Posting – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Team Leadership Problem – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Uniform Inspections – NC-162 (Iredell Composite Squadron)
Cadet Physical Fitness Test – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Standard Written Exam – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Aerospace Education Exam – NC-019 (Asheville Composite Squadron)
Individual honors went to C/Maj Andrew Tharpe of NC-162 for Best Uniform; C/2d Lt Jonathan Duchac of NC-019 for Highest Standard Written Exam Score; and C/SMSgt Robert Moser of NC-023 for Highest Aerospace Education Exam Score.
