History of the Patch

	GA-045 Sandy Springs Cadet Squadron "The Flyin' 45th" Version 1b

Joe Congleton, a former cadet commander of Sandy Springs Cadet Squadron, had created a patch design that incorporated Snoopy, the dog from the popular Peanuts comic strip. Snoopy was seated on the roof of his doghouse as a WWI Flying Ace, with 'The Flyin' 45th' on the top of the patch in reference to the squadron's charter number.

Harry Topliss, the cadet commander following Congleton, sent a letter to Peanuts creator Charles M Schulz requesting approval to use Snoopy's likeness. The artist responded in a personal letter dated July 25, 1967, stating that they "certainly may have permission to use Snoopy" in their patch, and that he was "flattered [they] should wish to do so."

Since 1967, SSCS members have proudly worn the 'Snoopy Patch' on their flight suits and pockets of their olive drab 'pickle suits', jungle fatigues, and Battle Dress Uniforms. Patch designer, Joe Congleton, left college to serve his country as a Huey Cobra pilot in Vietnam where he was severely injured and disabled. Harry Topliss who was cadet commander at the time the patch was made, retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the USAF Reserve.

This article about the patch appeared in the January-February 2008 issue of Civil Air Patrol's Volunteer magazine.

Information provided by:
Brian Berry, Lt Col, CAP
Commander, Sandy Springs Cadet Squadron
February 2007