Civil Air Patrol

Civil Air Patrol is the official United States Air Force Auxiliary shaping American youth, ages 12-18, to be the best versions of themselves they can be. Originally founded 1941 in WW2, the CAP was made to support the Army Air Corps by patrolling and locating Nazi Submarines on the US Coast and giving opportunities for civilians who couldn't enlist/commission to support their country during the world's time of struggle. The main missions that CAP supports are Cadet Programs, Emergency Services, and Aerospace Education.

According to CAP-USAF's Fact Sheets, there are more than 28,000 cadets nationwide with 1,400 squadrons. In the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program, one of the core components is Cadet Encampment. Across the country, hundreds to thousands of cadets attend a week-long event called "Encampment." This is an opportunity given to Cadets to gain leadership experience, and teamwork values, and to instill camaraderie. Encampment is the thing that makes cadets. It is also a required component of the "Mitchell Award." This award is the award that makes Cadet Officers. As of 8/1/2024, I have attended 2 encampments. Both as a student in Virginia Wing Winter, 2023, and Virginia Wing Summer, 2024, Advanced Training Squadron. If you are a cadet or someone interested in being one, I highly recommend attending your local state's encampment. It is going to be one of the biggest milestones, and most engaging experiences you will take in real life. Each state/wing is unique, however for Virginians, you MIGHT get to experience chances to fly in military-grade helicopters, jump from rappel towers, experience military-like training environments, meet individuals from all around the state or region, shoot at pneumatic firing ranges, and a lot more.

As a cadet, you are a volunteer to your community, state, and nation. It is part of the cadet oath, "I pledge that I will serve faithfully in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program, attend meetings regularly, participate actively in unit activities, obey my officers, wear my uniform properly, and advance my education and training rapidly to prepare myself to be of service to my community, state, and nation." Emergency Service is not mandatory by most units, however, it is extremely important to serve your community through Emergency Services. Did you know that CAP conducts 85% of inland searches and rescues in the U.S.? Yes, we do. Search and rescue/emergency services are NOT limited to going into a forest with a team and some backpacks and yelling out an individual's name. There are many paths you can take in Emergency Services. Whether that be radio operations at the mission base, or being an aerial photographer to view the area. Cadets & Seniors, regardless of age (except administration and aircrew,) may all pursue ES qualifications.