Ask anyone at Burris Laboratory School about junior Cameron Milleman, and you’ll hear some version of the same thing: he’s going places. Whether he’s picking up his trumpet, leading a squadron of Civil Air Patrol cadets, or representing Indiana on Capitol Hill, Cameron brings a blend of focus, humility, and drive that sets him apart.

But what makes his story so compelling isn’t just the list of accomplishments, it’s the energy and leadership he brings to everything he does.

Finding His Voice Through Music

Music is one of Cameron’s earliest passions, and it shows. His trumpet accomplishments read like milestones on a journey defined by dedication:

He’s auditioned for Junior All-State, earned a nomination for the IMEA Honor Band, and achieved Gold ratings at both regional and state Solo & Ensemble contests, performing at the most challenging level.

But for Cameron, it’s not just about the medals. It’s about the thrill of performance, the discipline of practice, and the joy of being part of something bigger than himself.

Discovering Leadership in the Civil Air Patrol

While Cameron’s musical journey is impressive, his involvement in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) reveals another side of him entirely, one shaped by service, leadership, and responsibility.

CAP, the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, offers cadets ages 12–18 experiences that go far beyond uniforms and drill practice. For Cameron, it has become a second home and the place where he discovered his capacity to lead.

Reaching the Top

One of Cameron’s proudest achievements is earning the rank of Cadet Colonel, an honor marked by receiving the Spaatz Award, the highest cadet achievement in CAP. Fewer than 1% of cadets nationwide ever reach this level.

It required him to pass comprehensive exams on leadership and aerospace, meet rigorous physical fitness standards, and master every requirement along the way.

But talk to Cameron about it, and he’ll tell you it wasn’t about the rank. It was about the growth: becoming someone younger cadets could look up to.

Leading Indiana’s Delegation to Washington, D.C.

One of the most impressive chapters in Cameron’s CAP story came when he served as the Government Relations Cadet Officer for the Indiana Wing. In this role, he was trusted with something extraordinary:

Planning, coordinating, and leading the entire Indiana cadet delegation to Washington, D.C.

This wasn’t an adult-run trip with cadets along for the ride. Indiana is unique, the whole thing is cadet-led, and Cameron was the one at the helm.

• He recruited and interviewed cadets from each congressional district.
• He trained them to contact their representatives.
• He booked transportation.
• Planned the itinerary.
• Handled last-minute curveballs like weather and illness.
• And then he led the team to meet with Indiana’s U.S. Senators and Representatives.

For many young people, that would be overwhelming. For Cameron, it was an opportunity, and he rose to it.

A Commander Who Lifts Others Up

Back home in Indiana, Cameron continues to lead as the Squadron Commander of the Anderson Composite Squadron (IN-GLR 223). His approach is hands-on and deeply relational. He works alongside senior members to design weekly programming. He teaches classes. He mentors newer cadets to build their confidence and leadership skills.

And he does it all with an eye toward the future, helping shape a squadron culture grounded in teamwork, integrity, and growth.

Thriving in High-Level Competition

Cameron’s squadron is also known for excelling in Cadet Competition, a demanding contest that tests everything from physical fitness and drill to speeches and team leadership.

Under Cameron’s influence and participation, the squadron consistently ranks among the top teams in Indiana and the Great Lakes Region, and has even competed on the national stage.

Cameron is frequently chosen as one of the cadets to represent the team in both prepared and impromptu speeches, roles that require confidence, quick thinking, and strong communication.

A Student Who Embodies Leadership and Heart

Cameron Milleman is many things, a talented musician, a dedicated cadet, an accomplished leader, but above all, he is someone who lifts others up.

From the practice rooms of Burris to the halls of the U.S. Capitol, Cameron leads with humility, discipline, and a genuine desire to serve. His curiosity drives him. His hard work defines him. And his compassion inspires the cadets who follow in his footsteps.

Burris Laboratory School celebrates Cameron not just for what he has achieved, but for who he is becoming: a thoughtful leader with a bright future ahead.