Ellijay CAP Cadet Air Force Academy Bound

Cadet/Lieutenant Colonel Robert Mallinak is a receipient of the Ira Eaker Award and will depart for the United States Air Force Academy in June 2015 Dedicated, inspired, and motivated are just a few words which describe Cadet/Lieutenant Colonel Robert Mallinak. As a young man working to mow neighborhood lawns, volunteering with the Knights of Columbus painting homes, yard work, wood splitting and stacking, raising funds for disabled citizens program helped form his early work ethic and community service spirit.

As a Civil Air Patrol Cadet he has served in many capacities including Cadet Commander, Flight Commander, First Sergeant, Flight Sergeant, Squadron Cadet of the Year 2012, and Squadron SAR(Search and Rescue) Training Leader. He has earned the Billy Mitchell Award, Amelia Earhart Award, Ira Eaker Award and the Carl Spaatz Award.

That only begins to describe the person he is. He carried a 3.86 GPA and scored 35 of 36 on the ACT. Simultaneously, he has been enrolled at Kennesaw State University taking 6 13 credit hours respectively in 2013 and 2014.

But Robert wanted to attend the Air Force Academy. He knew what was required and set forth accomplishing the required credentials to be nominated as a candidate. He quickly discovered that every worthwhile goal will encounter obstacles. Through his diligence and dedication to the task, he overcame each obstacle and was recently appointed to the Air Force Academy. His nomination included recommendations from both Georgia U. S. Senators and U. S. Representative.

Group 5 Commander and past 507 Ellijay CAP Squadron Commander, Major Sam Burrell, stated,

“Having known and worked closely with Robert Mallinak since I interviewed him for entry to the 507th, I knew that his potential was unlimited. His dream has always been to attend the U. S. Air Force Academy and it was a pleasure watching him complete the requirements for his achievement. He has been a strong leader and Cadet Commander that others have emulated. His successes and great can-do attitude make volunteerism more enjoyable!”

Captain Lex Fisher, Commander 507 Ellijay Civil Air Patrol Squadron said,

“C/LTC Mallinak epitomizes the CORE values of CAP and the best example of a fine young cadet who aspires to improvement and growth. He has been a leader who sets the example for other cadets and senior members as well”.

Deputy Commander/Cadets, Captain Jennifer Williams stated,

“The leadership contributions C/LTC Mallinak has made to the squadron have marked his legacy. He is an outstanding cadet with the ability to organize, plan and implement programs without supervision. Cadet Mallinak has always been available to guide other cadets in the program with positive feedback and has challenged them to grow within Civil Air Patrol and their personal lives.”