Mount Airy Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol received national and state recognition at its meeting last night.

The all-volunteer squad, which organized in 1995 and includes 20 senior members and 45 cadets, has earned the Civil Air Patrol's Unit Citation for exceptionally meritorious service and outstanding achievement during 2001. The Mount Airy squadron is one of seven in the nation to receive the citation for its efforts last year. It also was named the Maryland Wing Squadron of the Year for 2001.

"This says we have accomplished a lot and that we are a squadron of distinction," said Maj. Kathleen McLellan, a squadron leader. "It means we are doing a great job."