Deer Valley Squadron History

The squadron known today as Deer Valley Composite Squadron 302 resulted from combining two squadrons. Luke Senior Squadron 302 was chartered in 1957. Deer Valley Cadet Squadron 307 merged with Luke Senior Squadron 302 in 1985 to become Deer Valley Composite Squadron 302.

The original squadron 302 patch was similar to the current one. Though a color image of the previous patch has not been found, it featured an eagle as its major design element.

The current squadron patch was designed and adopted in 2026.

The emblem is a circular disc bordered in black. The central field depicts stylized desert canyon walls in copper with a winding blue river flowing between them. Above the canyon is a red and gold sunburst inspired by the Arizona state flag, centered on a copper five-pointed star. A large black hawk in a descending posture dominates the foreground, while two smaller birds appear in flight in the background against the sunburst. Above the disc is a silver scroll bearing the squadron motto, “Surpassed by None,” and below is a matching scroll inscribed “Deer Valley Comp Sq 302.”

The significance of the colors and symbols used in the design includes:

• The emblem reflects the mission, heritage, and geographic location of Deer Valley Composite Squadron 302, Arizona Wing, Civil Air Patrol.

• The red and gold sunburst is derived from the design of the Arizona state flag and represents the squadron’s service to the citizens and communities of Arizona. The copper star symbolizes Arizona’s identity as the Copper State and represents leadership, guidance, and the spirit of volunteer service embodied by Civil Air Patrol members.

• The desert canyon landscape and winding river represent the distinctive terrain of Arizona and the environment in which Civil Air Patrol members frequently train and serve in support of search-and-rescue, disaster-relief, and other emergency services operations. These elements also reflect the squadron’s connection to the communities it serves throughout the state.

• The hawk represents vigilance, strength, and mastery of the air. Shown in a descending posture, it symbolizes readiness to respond swiftly and effectively whenever called upon to serve. Black hawks are found in the North Phoenix/Central Arizona area, primarily nesting along riparian corridors like the Agua Fria River and nearby waterways.

• The three birds in flight symbolize Civil Air Patrol’s three primary programs: Emergency Services, Cadet Programs, and Aerospace Education. Their movement across the rising sun represents opportunity, growth, and the development of future aerospace leaders.

• The motto “Surpassed by None” reflects the squadron’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and dedication to service.