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About Us
Since Civil Air Patrol’s formation during the earliest days of World War II, this vigilant organization of citizen Airmen has been committed to service to America. Founded on Dec. 1, 1941, to mobilize the nation's civilian aviation resources for national defense service, CAP has evolved into a premier public service organization that still carries out emergency service missions when needed — in the air and on the ground.
As a Total Force partner and auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, Civil Air Patrol is there to search for and find the lost, provide comfort in times of disaster and work to keep the homeland safe. Its 56,000 members selflessly devote their time, energy, and expertise toward the well-being of their communities, while also promoting aviation and related fields through aerospace/STEM education and helping shape future leaders through CAP’s cadet program.
Civil Air Patrol’s missions for America are many, and today’s adults and cadets perform their duties with the same vigilance as its founding members — preserving CAP’s 80-year legacy of service while maintaining its commitment to nearly 1,500 communities nationwide.
Click the link below to find a local squadron and then reach out to schedule a visit.
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JOIN AS A CADETCAP is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that serves as the civilian auxiliary to the U.S. Air Force. The Cadet Program is one of CAP's three main programs. As a CAP cadet, you will participate in a year-round program where you fly, learn to lead, hike, camp, get in shape and push yourself to new limits. The program transforms youth into dynamic citizens and aerospace leaders through a curriculum that focuses on four elements: leadership, aerospace, fitness and character. As you participate in these four elements, you advance through a series of achievements, earning honors and increased responsibilities along the way. Many of the nation's astronauts, pilots, engineers and scientists first explored their careers through CAP. The leadership skills, self-confidence and discipline you gain will prepare you to achieve whatever goals you set for yourself in life. |
If you’re between 12 and 18 years of age and dreaming about a career in aviation, space or the military, CAP’s Cadet Program is for you.
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JOIN AS AN ADULTThough Civil Air Patrol is known for its flying missions, CAP adult members do so much more than just fly. In fact, less than one-fifth of all CAP members are pilots or aircrew members. CAP adult members come from all walks of life including electricians, lawyers, educators, retail workers, clergy, truck drivers, and retirees. Really just about any career or background can be found in the ranks of the CAP adult membership. Adult members help out at the squadron with day-to-day operations like managing the finances or keeping inventory of equipment. In emergency services and operations, members may help with communications, transportation of goods, taking photos, or helping distribute water and food. CAP has more than 23,000 youth in its Cadet Program. Adult members help in all aspects of the cadet program, so it's a great opportunity if you want to be a positive influence in a young person's life. |
There are many opportunities to serve as a volunteer in Civil Air Patrol. Reach out to your local unit to find out how you can help.
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JOIN AS AN EDUCATORJoin as an Aerospace Education Member of Civil Air Patrol and enjoy many free aerospace and STEM educational opportunities ranging from a variety of K-12 curriculum materials and STEM Kits to participating in a teacher orientation flight aboard one of our Cessna aircraft at your local airport. This unique membership category is designed for formal or informal educators involved in promoting aerospace and STEM education in classrooms, homeschools, museums, libraries, or other youth organizations. |
