Informational Pamphlets

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Frequently Asked Questions


Q: How much does it cost to join CAP?

A: during your online application National and Wing dues will total $69. Squadron dues are $40. Bring a check made payable to "Civil Air Patrol" to your first squadron meeting after joining.

Q: What are the age requirements for joining CAP?

A: Youth aged 12-18 may join CAP as cadets and remain cadets until age 21. Adults of any age are welcome to join CAP, too. Parents, grandparents and guardians are encouraged to join as a Cadet Sponsor Member or as a Senior Member.

Q. When does the squadron meet?

A. We meet weekly on Tuesday  evenings between 1900 and 2100. We have special activities on the weekends and during the summer. 

Q: Are cadets obligated to join the military?

A: No, but many do. Cadets who earn the Billy Mitchell Award may enter the Air Force at an advanced grade (E-3) if they choose to enlist. The service academies and ROTC also look favorably on CAP experience. Approximately 10% of the USAF Academy cadet corps got their start in CAP. Many of our squadron's cadets have gone on to the USAFA, USNA, USMA, ROTC and joined the corps of cadets at universities across America. 

Q: What level of commitment is expected from cadets?

A: CAP expects cadets to participate actively, but of course we recognize that school and family take priority. There may be seasonal sports or other commitments that conflict, and we support our cadets' participation in them. If you are unable to attend a CAP activity, please use the chain of command to communicate that in advance. If you have a seasonal conflict, let your chain of command know what to expect from you for attendance. As soon as the conflict ends, come back to CAP with enthusiasm. Like any extra-curricular activity, cadets will get out of CAP only what they put into it.

Adult Supervision

Q: Who leads and supervises the cadets?




A: No. Of course, school comes first and CAP expects cadets to maintain "satisfactory performance" at school, as defined by the cadet's parents. Because CAP emphasizes self-discipline, it's not uncommon for parents to see their son's or daughter's grades increase as a result of their wholehearted participation in the Cadet Program. The more actively and enthusiastically a cadet participates, the more they get out of the program.


Q: Why do cadets wear uniforms?


Q: What uniforms do cadets wear?

A: The basic cadet uniform is the short-sleeve Air Force style blue uniform and the ABU uniform. See the "New Cadet" section for more details.

Q: How do cadets obtain uniforms?

A: New cadets are eligible to purchase the Air Force style blue uniform when they earn their Curry Award ( their "first stripe.") They will receive a $100 voucher toward the purchase of the uniform. The uniform must be inspected before wearing and on the first wearing. See the "New Cadet" section for more details. The ABUs should be purchased by the cadet. See the "New Cadet" section for more details.

Q: How do cadets obtain uniform insignia?

A: Vanguard is CAP's official supplier of uniform insignia. Earned insignia is supplied at the initial earning by the squadron. Lost or damaged insignia needs to be replaced by the cadet.





Q: What's involved with cadet orientation flights?



Cadet Promotions

Q: How do cadets advance and earn promotions?




Q: Does CAP have activities outside the squadron meetings?

A: Yes. Visit the CAP National Activities page for information about Encampment, Leadership Schools, National Special Activities, and more.



Q: Does CAP offer any scholarships?

A: Yes. See the CAP National scholarships page for details