Civil Air Patrol

The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a federally chartered nonprofit corporation that serves as the civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. It was established in 1941 and is headquartered at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama. The CAP operates through eight geographic regions, divided into wings that cover each state, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. Each wing is further divided into groups, squadrons, and flights.

Mission

The primary mission of CAP includes:

• Emergency Services: Conducting search and rescue missions, disaster relief, and supporting homeland security operations. CAP contributes significantly to inland search and rescue efforts in the U.S., executing about 90% of such operations as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and other agencies.
• Aerospace Education: Providing educational programs to inform the public about aviation, space, and STEM careers. These programs are aimed at both youth and adults.
• Youth Development: Encouraging cadet participation in leadership development, safety training, and community service.

Operations

CAP operates the world's largest fleet of light aircraft, enabling access to any community in the United States. It conducts a variety of operational missions, including search and rescue, disaster response, counterdrug operations, and special-use airspace surveys. Additionally, CAP executes aerial target missions for maintaining air defense readiness and conducts orientation flights for cadets and educators.

Structure

CAP has more than 38,000 adult members and over 28,000 cadets organized into over 1,500 units. Its organizational structure mimics that of the Air Force, complete with ranks similar to those used in the military. The organization collaborates closely with the U.S. Air Force through the Civil Air Patrol–U.S. Air Force (CAP-USAF), which provides support and oversight.

National Impact

On average, CAP saves about 100 lives annually through its emergency services. The organization also supports community service projects and provides opportunities for both youth and adults to engage in meaningful volunteer work.

Partnerships

CAP collaborates with federal agencies and organizations like NASA for scientific research missions. For example, CAP has contributed to solar eclipse missions and plans to engage in an aviation weather mission in partnership with NASA.

Awards and Recognition

CAP cadets participate in national competitions such as the CyberPatriot and StellarXplorers programs, showcasing their skills in cybersecurity and space exploration. These activities highlight CAP's commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in aerospace-related fields.