2 minute read

A New Era of Aviation Micromanagement Begins!

Introducing the latest episode in the ongoing saga of Air Safety and Boundary-Pushing Delegation: Col. Dennis R. Bissell, formerly lord of the skies (a.k.a. the North Carolina Wing), has been anointed as the new commander of Civil Air Patrol’s Mid-Atlantic Region. This appointment was part of a celestial alignment arranged by Maj. Gen. Regena M. Aye — the grand maestro herself!

Join us as we follow Col. Bissell through the thrilling transition from wing commander to regional overseer, where he not only rubs elbows with the luminaries of the CAP Senior Advisory Group but also enjoys the prestigious task of rewriting the Civil Air Patrol Constitution and Bylaws — truly the stuff of legends! Who needs action-packed maneuvers when you have regulations and governance to revamp?

In a heartwarming and humility-infused declaration, Gen. Aye lauded Bissell for his unyielding ability to see opportunities where mere mortals see only aviation red tape and phantom airfields. As he embarks on this illustrious path, Col. Bissell offers what could only be described as Olympic-level optimism about working with everyone under the sun, and possibly beyond, in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

The official crowning ceremony will happen in an arena befitting such an event — the West Virginia Wing Conference. A fitting reminder that leadership isn’t about telling people what to do but rather, grandiosely helping them “see the possibilities” while they try not to trip over the bureaucratic hurdles laid in their path.

For those fans who’ve followed Bissell’s long and storied epic through the Civil Air Patrol, there are plenty of familiar plot points: a journey from cadet commander (an age-old fairy tale favorite) to various illustrious positions like Inspector General and Director of Emergency Services. All the while, he has been amassing a war chest of awards, commendations, and glamorous titles fit for a sovereign ruler of volunteerism.

And let’s not forget his staunch dedication outside the CAP realm in strategic endeavors of a different sort — navigating the labyrinthine world of financial services. Truly, Col. Bissell is a Renaissance man for the modern age, blending financial savvy with the sage wisdom of airspace dominance.

In their flight plan for the future, his loyal subjects at the Mid-Atlantic Region can look forward to Col. Bissell’s renowned wit, charm, and penchant for simultaneously helping and baffling populace with the solemn statement: “Leadership isn’t about commanding people, but about helping others see the possibilities and grow.” Which, admittedly, sounds great in theory but may require a few more rewrites in practice.

Meanwhile, in the Bissell household, Jr. Aviator prodigies are making waves. His daughter, Cadet Lt. Col. Sara Bissell, is set to take the CAP Ranger program by storm, aiming for mastery status as a medic. Meanwhile, young Denny H. Bissell dreams of becoming the next great aircraft designer, presumably after conquering 8th grade.

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