Civil Air Patrol

Overview

Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, federally supported non-profit organization that serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force (USAF). It was founded on December 1, 1941, and is headquartered at Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery, Alabama. CAP's mission is to support America's communities with emergency response, diverse aviation and ground services, youth development, and promotion of air, space, and cyber power through aerospace education.

Missions and Programs

Civil Air Patrol operates under five congressionally mandated purposes:

• Encourage and aid citizens in developing aviation and maintaining air supremacy.
• Provide aviation education and training.
• Foster civil aviation in local communities.
• Assist in meeting local and national emergencies.
• Support the Department of the Air Force in non-combat programs and missions.

These mandates are condensed into three primary programs:

• Emergency Services: CAP members conduct search and rescue missions, disaster response, and homeland security operations. Notably, CAP performs 90% of inland search and rescue missions in the U.S.
• Aerospace Education: CAP promotes aerospace, aviation, and STEM-related careers through educational activities and curriculum. This program supports both CAP members and the broader community.
• Cadet Programs: The cadet program focuses on leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character development for young people. Many participants go on to become leaders in aviation and aerospace fields.

History

The origins of CAP date back to 1936, when Gill Robb Wilson envisioned mobilizing civilian aviators for national defense. In 1941, the Civil Air Patrol was formally established under the direction of Major General John F. Curry. Following World War II, CAP was incorporated on July 1, 1946, and designated as the Air Force's civilian auxiliary in 1948.

Structure

Civil Air Patrol is structured similar to the U.S. Air Force, with a hierarchical command system. Its organizational units include National Headquarters, regions, wings, groups, squadrons, and flights. CAP operates in all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, supported by Civil Air Patrol-U.S. Air Force (CAP-USAF) detachments.

Operations

CAP conducts a wide range of missions, including search and rescue, disaster response, and support for counterdrug operations. They also participate in aerial target missions to enhance combat readiness and execute special-use airspace surveys. Additionally, CAP supports humanitarian efforts, such as transporting medical supplies and personnel for organizations like the Red Cross.

Notable Engagements

During major crises, CAP has played significant roles, such as providing early aerial photography over the World Trade Center site after the September 11 attacks and assisting during significant natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes.