Cadet 2nd Lt. Noelle Joubert helps guide a CAP Cessna 182 out of the hangar.
2nd Lt. Hannah J. Bennett
Public Affairs Officer
Danville Composite Squadron
Virginia Wing
VIRGINIA – When Herman Joubert’s daughter, Noelle, expressed an interest in a career with the Air Force early in high school, he knew volunteering in the military branch’s civilian auxiliary would be a good way for his daughter to experience military life.
He joined Civil Air Patrol along with her. After more than two years in the organization, including command positions for both, neither Joubert has regretted their experience.
“I joined Civil Air Patrol to get a handle on the military,” remembered Noelle Joubert, now a cadet second lieutenant in the Danville Composite Squadron. “I wanted to go to the U.S. Air Force Academy and knew I needed to get some leadership experience and learn how to wear a uniform properly.
“I was already sold on CAP before I went to the first meeting. It was everything I expected it to be,” she said.
The father-daughter duo first heard of CAP from a friend at church who was involved with the Danville squadron.
“We also ran into someone from the Air Force Academy, a recruiter who was in town to award an appointment to a former CAP cadet. I thought, ‘Look at the potential results of this program: the Air Force Academy!’” said Herman Joubert, who now holds the rank of captain in the Danville squadron, where he serves as finance and recruiting and retention officer.
“We received a very warm welcome and were sold on CAP during our first visit,” he recalled.
“My interest in joining was primarily the cadet program.” Herman Joubert said. “It seemed like a very well-rounded program. What a wonderful opportunity for young people to develop leadership skills and character!”
Capt. Joubert served as the Danville unit’s commander from 2008 to 2009. During his tenure, squadron members photographed hurricane damage, assisted with radio communications at a major wildfire and participated in training exercises with military pilots.
“I’ve been blessed with a staff of very capable, talented people. My biggest challenge was to give them room to be individuals; it’s worked out beautifully,” he said.
His daughter just completed a yearlong stint as cadet commander of the squadron. She was responsible for planning activities and overseeing the training of about 15 fellow cadets.
Both Jouberts also served on staff at two summer cadet encampments.
“Senior members are there to facilitate cadet activities and serve as mentors – to steer them in the right direction,” Capt. Joubert said. “There was never any real conflict between Noelle and I. CAP didn’t change our relationship – it actually made it better!
“I learned when to step back and let her do things; she asked for help if she needed it. There was a very honest and trusting exchange between us.”
Home-schooled since kindergarten, Cadet 2nd Lt. Joubert graduated from high school in June. She has also completed dual-enrollment classes at Piedmont Community College in North Carolina while maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average.
“We’re really proud of her,” her father said. “I don’t worry about her. She has her head screwed on straight. The determination to achieve her goals and the motivation to do what it takes to succeed is built into her.”
