The Missions of Civil Air Patrol Emergency Services Cadet Programs Aerospace Education

Emergency Services
CAP conducts 85% of all emergency service hours spent in the United States. ES is comprised of Search and Rescue (SAR), Disaster Relief (DR), Civil Defense (CD), and Counter Narcotics (CN). SAR missions are conducted when someone is missing, usually an aviator. DR is conducted when Mother Nature has made life difficult for people and CAP comes to their aid. When there is some type of man-made disturbance in which people need help, CD operations are executed. CN missions are on going operations to assist various government agencies.

Cadet Programs
The CAP Cadet Program is the best, yet least known, youth program in the country. The program gives young people a chance to learn discipline, leadership, respect for others, aerospace knowledge, and more. Orientation flights are given to all cadets, and those interested may pursue solo flying and eventually a pilot's license. National Activities gives cadets the chance to compete nationally in Drill and Ceremonies, travel overseas to meet cadets of other countries (IACE), and many other specialty schools not available in other youth programs. The program also teaches cadets to become leaders in their community, state, and nation.

Aerospace Education
CAP is charged with educating itself and the general public about aerospace matters. Aerospace education is an integral part of both the cadet and senior training programs. Many early aerospace pioneers had a direct influence on the creation and development of Civil Air Patrol. Many of these pioneers are recognized by having their names associated with the various program achievements and awards. CAP also conducts aerospace classes at local schools and other community groups. A comprehensive model rocketry program gives both members and non-members opportunities to launch actual flying model rockets. These programs reinforce the importance of aerospace in our society.

I have been a member of Civil Air Patrol since January 1985. I served as a cadet until May 1992, achieving the grade of Cadet Colonel and earning the General Carl A. "Tooey" Spaatz Award. Earning the Spaatz made me eligible for a direct appointment to Captain upon turning senior member on 01 June 92. Effective 01 July 92, I was promoted to Captain. Serving in various capacities since then, I've gained valuable experience. Some of the positions I've had include Leadership Officer, Cadet Programs Officer, and Squadron Commander, as well as several staff positions at summer encampment. I am also heavily involved with SAR Ground Team operations as a Ground Team Leader. Effective 05 December 2000, I was promoted to Major and I continue to serve and learn. Being in CAP has been educational and rewarding, and I've met a lot of great people.

My current assignment is: Member, AuSable Valley Composite Squadron Michigan Wing, Civil Air Patrol

Secret Passages: [ Main | Army | Civil Air Patrol | Amateur Radio | Motorcycle | Sailing | Sheriff ]


Copyright © 1996-2009 by MAJ David M. Gillahan, CAP