What began on December 1, 1941, as a
civilian effort to augment America's defenses has become a
multifunctional volunteer organization that serves America today with
the same spirit of dedication and commitment. Since 1948, CAP has worked
arm-in-arm with our Air Force partners and each year provides more than
85% of all inland search and rescue support as tasked by the Air Force
Rescue Coordination Center at Langley AFB, Va.
In addition, CAP volunteer members repeatedly respond to calls from the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross
when
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Missions |
Membership
disaster strikes in the form of
floods, hurricanes, forest fires, or other natural and man-made
disasters. They perform valiantly and selflessly with little thought for
their own comfort and well-being, spending endless hours away from
family and jobs to serve their fellow Americans.
Equally
important is the work we do with the youth of America. Civil Air Patrol
Cadet Programs provides young men and women, ages 12-20, with a safe and
motivating environment in which to grow and explore opportunities in the
military and aviation industries. CAP presents an alternative life-style
to drugs and teenage violence, thus giving thousands of young people the
opportunity to embrace the leadership roles of the 21st century with
confidence and determination.
Each year presents many memorable challenges and opportunities for CAP
in all three of our mission areas: Aerospace Education, Cadet Programs,
and Emergency Services. Our volunteer members answer every challenge and
meet each opportunity with an unparalleled strength of character.
