Squadron Commander

Captain Estelle Roche was born in 2004 in Marseille, France, and moved to the United States at the age of ten. She is graduating in Spring 2026 with a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland–College Park.

Captain Roche joined the College Park Composite Squadron in September 2017 at the age of thirteen. During her cadet career, she completed numerous Emergency Services qualifications, participated in real-world search and rescue missions, and earned a “Find” ribbon. She ultimately achieved the prestigious General Carl A. Spaatz Award, recognizing exceptional excellence in leadership, character, physical fitness, and aerospace education.

Throughout her service, Captain Roche has been deeply involved in community and operational missions, including COVID-19 relief efforts, College Park Day, Women in Aviation Day, and other outreach initiatives. Her leadership roles include serving as Cadet Commander of her squadron, Executive Officer of Warrior Challenge, Cadet Commander of Airmen Leadership School, and a Standards and Evaluation Officer at Tri-Wing Encampment.

Captain Roche’s accomplishments have been recognized at the local, state, and national levels. Her awards include the Air Force Association NCO of the Year (2018) and Cadet of the Year (2022), the Daughters of the American Revolution Cadet of the Year (2019), and the Maryland Wing Cadet of the Year (2024).

 Captain Roche earned the WINGS Scholarship and completed her Private Pilot Certificate through Civil Air Patrol, attending both the Robert Ayres Memorial Flight Academy and the Advanced Flight Training Academy.

In July 2023, Captain Roche spent three weeks in Australia as a U.S. ambassador during the International Air Cadet Exchange. She transitioned to senior membership in February 2025 and served as Deputy Commander for Cadets. In January 2026, she was selected as Squadron Commander of the College Park Composite Squadron, where she now leads and mentors the next generation of cadets.