Santa Clarita / Antelope Valley : Ace Pilot Uplifts Young Offenders : Corrections: Dick Rutan steals the show during Sybil Brand’s birthday party at drug treatment boot camp.

Juvenile offenders aren’t easily impressed by old social workers, but fighter pilots are a different story.

The Los Angeles County Probation Department Drug Treatment Boot Camp in Lake Hughes held a 92nd birthday party on Wednesday for Sybil Brand, a pioneer who fought for more humane women’s prison facilities, and whose name graces the front of the Los Angeles County women’s jail, the Sybil Brand Institute.

Along for the celebration came Dick Rutan, a highly decorated Vietnam War fighter pilot and aviation pioneer best known for flying the homemade plane Voyager around the world in 1986 without refueling.

Although the 105 teen-agers seemed impressed with Brand’s vivaciousness and wit, it was the folksy Rutan who stole the show, spinning yarns about being shot down in combat and visiting the Reagans in the White House after his record-setting flight.

Dressed in military fatigues, the offenders--most convicted of drug-related crimes--seemed taken by Rutan’s message that they, too, could achieve their dreams if they devote themselves.

“It’s encouraging,” said Astor, who wants to study architecture when he finishes his 21-week term in two weeks. “It’s kind of uplifting after being here so long.”

Because they are juveniles, none of the boys’ last names can be released.

For Rutan, who lost a close race for Congress in 1992, visiting the boot camp was a way to reflect on his accomplishments.

“This is therapy,” said Rutan, who usually charges $5,000 as a public speaker, but who spoke to the youths for free. “I look at all those guys and think, ‘There’s nothing separating me from them.’ ”

Although he admits it is extremely tough, William, 17, said the boot camp has taught him discipline, responsibility and the harmful effects of drugs. He plans to join the Army when he is released.

The 16- to 18-year-olds in the boot camp go through a rigorous quasi-military program, attending school during the day while fixing county roads and helping flood-control workers at night. In many cases, the money they earn goes to repay victims of their crimes.

The military approach is effective, said boot camp Director Dennis Dyer. The young offenders seemed to agree.

“You can’t win,” Astor said. “But if you behave well and cooperate, they can help you.”