Lt. Col. Kevin Pegelow will serve as the South Dakota Wing’s next commander, with a change of command set for December, according to Col. Tom Theis, commander of the North Central Region. Pegelow, the wing’s vice commander since Dec. 5, 2024, will succeed Col. Michael Marek, whose command commenced Dec.1, 2021. Pegelow joined Civil Air Patrol as a Wisconsin Wing cadet in October 1992. He achieved CAP’s top cadet honor, the Gen. Carl A. Spaatz Award, in December 1997. He subsequently filled a number of roles in the Wisconsin Wing’s Tri-City Composite Squadron through 2006, focusing on leadership, emergency services, and operations and also serving as deputy commander for cadets. After moving to South Dakota in 2021, Pegelow rejoined CAP after a 15-year break. “I wanted to give back to the organization that provided so many wonderful experiences and lasting friendships as a young member,” he said. Pegelow holds a Master rating in cadet programs; Senior ratings in emergency services, safety, command, finance, professional development, personnel, and administration; and technician ratings in aerospace education and communications. He has served as South Dakota Wing director of finance and assistant chief of staff and as Rushmore Composite Squadron deputy commander and deputy commander for cadets. He has attended 12 encampments and two National Blue Beret activities. Earlier this year he participated in CAP’s National Emergency Services Academy for incident commanders. His awards include, Meritorious Service, six Commanders Commendations (Wing). and an Achievement Award. Pegelow is a retired plant manager and safety director for a Midwest precast concrete company and will soon be celebrating his 13th anniversary with his wife Ella.