About Tri-Wing Encampment
Mission, vision, and information about the 2026 Summer Encampment
Mission & Vision
CAP National HQ — Mission
CAP National HQ — Vision
Each Cadet Will:
- ✓Develop leadership skills
- ✓Investigate aerospace sciences and related careers
- ✓Commit to a habit of regular exercise
- ✓Solidify their moral character
Tri-Wing Mission Statement
To serve as a premier cadet training and leadership development opportunity within Civil Air Patrol. The encampment's challenging, yet positive, age-appropriate and military-like training model helps students push beyond their comfort zones with emphasis on personal growth. Student graduates will have explored a variety of aerospace-themed activities and left with a newfound appreciation for aerospace and military service.
Encampment Commander's Welcome
Lt Col Gary Renfrow, CAP — Encampment Commander
I am honored and excited to serve as this year's Encampment Commander! I recently retired from a rewarding career in the Federal Government as a member of the Senior Executive Service in the Department of Homeland Security, following a distinguished career in the U.S. Air Force. I began my Air Force service as an enlisted member and then later commissioned as an officer. I can honestly say that Civil Air Patrol's cadet program was a key part of my development during my youth, a fact that I would not trade for anything. My goal is to provide every cadet at this year's encampment with an experience that is just as meaningful, if not more so.
This year, the Tri‑Wing Encampment (TWE) will be hosted at Joint Base McGuire‑Dix‑Lakehurst (JBMDL), rather than Camp Fretterd in Maryland. While Camp Fretterd has been a valued and long‑standing partner, JBMDL offers an unparalleled environment. It brings together active‑duty U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard operations, providing a truly unique opportunity to live, learn, and train in a joint military setting.
I have already selected an exceptional team of senior member and cadet leaders to serve as this year's cadre, and I could not be more confident in their abilities. Chosen in February through an initial screening and rigorous weekend assessments — including early morning wakeups, physical training, written and practical exams, and continuous evaluation — these leaders have been thoroughly tested and are fully prepared to deliver an outstanding experience.
General encampment inquiries can be directed towards twepersonnel@mdwg.cap.gov.
Lt Col Gary Renfrow, CAP
2026 Tri-Wing Encampment Commander
Coming Soon
2026 Cadet Pre-Encampment Guide — watch this space.CAP Encampment Opportunities
Visit the CAP Encampment website for all available encampment opportunities.Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL)
2026 Encampment Location — New Jersey
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) provides for an awesome and unique environment that includes U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard operations in one large military base.
JBMDL is a significant U.S. military installation in New Jersey, serving as the only tri-service base in the Department of Defense, combining the operations of the former McGuire Air Force Base, Fort Dix Army post, and Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst. This unique joint-base environment offers cadets an unparalleled opportunity to live, learn, and train alongside active-duty service members from multiple branches of the armed forces.
Location
Burlington County, New Jersey
Services Present
Air Force · Army · Navy · Marines · Coast Guard
Encampment Dates
11–18 July 2026
About the 9th Training Wing
Encampment is one of the most important milestones for any Civil Air Patrol cadet. By nature of the encampment's regimented lifestyle and military-like training model, encampment is certainly one of the most challenging but worthwhile experiences that cadet students and cadre may experience in their youth.
In keeping with this tradition of excellence, the 9th Training Wing strives to provide a challenging, safe, and rewarding experience for every cadet who attends. Our cadre is selected through a rigorous screening and assessment process to ensure every cadet receives the best possible experience.