The Primary Missions of Civil Air Patrol

In 1946, Congress granted a charter to Civil Air Patrol, charging its members with three missions. First, CAP was to promote aviation. As years passed, that mission expanded to include aerospace education as well. Second, CAP was to provide a training program to support the nation’s youth in contributing to society and preparing for successful adult lives. Finally, CAP was to continue its emergency services, the work for which CAP is still best known today.

 

Emergency Services

Our emergency services mission covers such areas as search and rescue, homeland security, disaster relief and life support activities, and emergency communications.

Search and Rescue Operations.

The Air Force authorizes “search and rescue” (SAR) missions. CAP members actually fly 4 out of every 5 air search hours directed by the Air Force, saving this country millions of dollars annually. CAP ground search teams work with state and local officials responsible for locating missing persons and aircraft. Qualified members participate in emergency services missions as radio operators, ground team members, and administrative personnel.

Homeland Security.

As a humanitarian service organization, CAP assists federal, state, and local agencies in preparing for and responding to homeland security needs.

Disaster Relief.

State and local emergency agencies often ask for help after natural disasters. Seniors and cadets operate communications equipment, help locate victims and clear debris. Pilots may evacuate the injured, transport medical supplies, and fly officials to and from affected areas.

CAP’s Help with Other Agencies.

The Red Cross, Salvation Army, and other agencies frequently ask CAP to transport medical technicians, life-saving medicines, and vital human transplant organs. They often rely on CAP to provide airlift and communications for their disaster relief operations. CAP has also helped the US Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary by performing “sundown patrols,” looking for boaters in need of assistance.

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Aerospace Education

The objective of the aerospace education mission is to promote an understanding and appreciation of the impact of aviation and aerospace in our everyday lives.

Internal Aerospace Education.

Internal aerospace education programs within CAP are a rigorous program to learn about aviation and aerospace principles.

External Aerospace Education.

The external aerospace education program provides education for non-CAP individuals through teacher workshops, primary and high school programs, and public information. Each year CAP sponsors workshops for interested educators and teachers, providing them with basic aerospace knowledge and methods that they can apply in their own classrooms.

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Cadet Programs

The CAP Cadet Program was derived from ground school and military drill. Since its inception on October 1, 1942, the Cadet Program has evolved, but the fundamental principles such as integrity have remained intact. Many cadets have gone on to become leaders in the Air Force, other branches of the military, and in civilian life.

CAP’s cadet program trains young men and women in teamwork, moral leadership, aerospace education, technical skills to support emergency services, and military history and customs. Through national encampments, a college and flight training scholarship program, and the International Air Cadet Exchange, CAP cadets broaden their horizons, learn to assume responsibility, feel self-confidence and set goals for their lives.

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