RAPID CITY, S.D. (Press Release) – Civil Air Patrol’s South Dakota Wing performed an additional series of COVID-19 vaccine delivery flights today at the request of the South Dakota Department of Health.

“We delivered this shipment of Pfizer vaccines to Prairie Lakes Hospital in Watertown and Mobridge Regional Hospital and Clinics,” said Col. Mike Beason, CAP’s incident commander for the mission. “Other than reimbursement for aircraft fuel and maintenance, Civil Air Patrol does not charge state and local government for missions like this.”

CAP is delivering vaccine in its role as the U.S. Air Force auxiliary, part of the Air Force program to support civil authorities to save lives, relieve suffering, prevent property damage and provide humanitarian assistance. In addition to the aircrew, other South Dakota Wing members assist with mission planning and logistical support.

“These South Dakota Wing members exemplify the community-minded spirit and professional-level preparedness of all Civil Air Patrol volunteers,” said Brig. Gen. Ed Phelka, CAP’s national vice commander. “This vaccine transport mission is yet another example of how CAP members step up to serve their communities, their states, and the nation.”

The South Dakota Wing has aircraft and aircrews in Sioux Falls, Pierre, Rapid City, Spearfish, Pierre and Brookings. The wing can deploy its six aircraft, ground teams and small search drones to assist in emergency response and other support to local, state, tribal and federal agencies.  The wing has more than 400 members in units in Brookings, Custer, Miller, Mitchell, Sioux Falls, Pierre, Rapid City, Spearfish and Tea.