Civil Air Patrol
For more than 50 years, the Civil Air Patrol has aggressively performed the missions Congress mandated in 1946: Aerospace Education, Cadet Programs, and Emergency Services.Aerospace EducationAmerica's love of manned flight started with the Wright brothers and continues unabated during this century. World War II showcased the important role aviation would play in the future and national leaders recognized the importance of stimulating public interest in aerospace activities.CAP, as the civilian Auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, was most suited to perform this mission. Their efforts focused on two different audiences - internal CAP members and the general public. Aerospace educators working out of CAP's National Headquarters at Maxwell AFB, Ala., provide materials that are current and reflect the highest standards of educational excellence. The congressional charter also tasked CAP to stimulate public interest in aerospace issues. These external programs are primarily conducted through our nation's education systems. These workshops highlight basic aerospace knowledge and focus on advances in aerospace technology. Textbooks, learning tools, and visual aids geared to stimulate interest in aerospace matters also are provided for teachers to use in their classrooms. Started in 1951, these workshops have reached hundreds of thousands of young people. CAP also plans and executes the National Congress on Aviation and Space Education. NCASE is the premier aerospace education conference held in the nation. The NCASE is designed to promote an understanding of aviation and space education to motivate and encourage teachers to incorporate aerospace education into their curriculum. It also encourages aerospace leaders to speak out on aerospace issues facing our nation today.
Civil Air Patrol
Overview
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, federally supported nonprofit corporation that serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force (USAF). Founded on December 1, 1941, CAP is dedicated to supporting America's communities through a variety of missions and programs.
History
Established just before the United States' entry into World War II, CAP played a crucial role in national defense efforts. Initially, it was part of the War Department and worked closely with the Army Air Corps. During World War II, CAP conducted significant missions, including antisubmarine patrols, where they sank two enemy submarines and saved hundreds of crash victims. Following the war, CAP was permanently established as the auxiliary of the newly formed U.S. Air Force in 1948.
Mission and Programs
CAP's mission includes serving America's communities by providing emergency response services, promoting youth development, and fostering aerospace education. Its core programs are structured around three main areas:
- Aerospace Education: CAP offers comprehensive resources and training in aviation and STEM fields for members and the public.
- Cadet Programs: These programs focus on developing young people through leadership, character development, and aviation education.
- Emergency Services: CAP provides support for search and rescue operations, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance.
Operations and Structure
Civil Air Patrol operates a large fleet of aircraft and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), with over 60,000 members across the U.S. Its organizational structure is similar to that of the U.S. Air Force, with eight geographical regions, 52 wings, and multiple groups, squadrons, and flights. CAP is headquartered at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama and works in collaboration with CAP-USAF, which provides day-to-day support and oversight.
Core Values
The Civil Air Patrol is guided by four core values:
- Integrity
- Volunteer Service
- Excellence
- Respect
Activities and Services
CAP conducts a range of operational missions daily, including:
- Search and Rescue (SAR)
- Disaster Response
- Counterdrug Operations
- Aerial Target Missions for training U.S. Air Force pilots
- Special-use Airspace Surveys
- Orientation Flights for educational institutions
- Support for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Forest Service
Recognition and Legacy
In recognition of its service during World War II, CAP members were collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014. Today, CAP continues to serve communities nationwide, embodying its motto: "Semper Vigilans" (Always Vigilant).
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