 The learning curve is steep during the first year in Civil Air Patrol, both for parents and cadets. We toss around a lot of acronyms (like SAREX, FTX) that make it seem like a foreign language. But here are some of the things we have found helpful in orienting you toward CAP.
- CAP is not the military -- We are a corporation that functions as the auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Our cadets employ Air Force customs and courtesies, practice Air Force drill and ceremonies, and wear Air Force-style uniforms. However, we are not boot camp. The lion's share of our cadets do not join the miltary after they leave high school, but some do and we are proud of their service.
- Air Force funding is limited -- Although CAP cadet programs would not exist without Air Force funds, the USAF funds only a Blues uniform, study materials, and CAP's basic equipment, mission funds, and some training funds. USAF money also keeps encampment costs relatively low. However, cadets must purchase many of thier own uniforms and gear and provide their own transportation, as a rule.
- CAP is rich in history -- For a great overview of Civil Air Patrol, you can browse this Wikipedia article that tells you more than you probably ever want to know.
- CAP cadets progress at their own pace -- We know that cadets have other things going on in their lives that can interrupt CAP, such as band, sports, musicals, academics. Basically, the cadet who attends and participates gets a lot of out of CAP; those who don't, won't. We do, however, expect more out of cadets once they reach leadership stages on the staff.
- CAP teaches life lessons -- At KY073, our emphasis is on how our cadets apply CAP's four core values to their lives inside the squadron and outside the squadron, at home and at school. These core values are Respect, Excellence, Integrity, and Volunteer Service. If they place these core values first, then success in CAP will ensue at all levels. And we hope success will follow in their personal lives.
Uniforms & Hair & GearUniforms, Hair, Appearance Cadets are expected to be in some type of uniform for each and every CAP function: - BDUs -- Woodland camo blouses and shirts, 073 squadron cover, squadron tee beneath blouse, black boots, blue belt with black buckle, all proper insignia.
- Blues -- Air Force dress blue shirt and slacks, service cap, blue belt with silver buckle, black dress shoes and socks, white tee underneath, all proper insignia.
- PT -- Physical training uniform is black squadron tee, 073 squadron cover, shorts or pants for running, running shoes and socks.
Uniforms are to be worn ONLY to and from CAP events and activities. Wear of partial uniforms to school or to non-CAP activities is prohibited. However, our squadron allows wear of a Blues uniform for school picture day or for a formal school dance. Cadets must uphold CAP core values at all times while wearing their uniforms. Hair for males and females should be off the collar and off the ears. Male hair should be no more than 1 1/2 inches long. Female hair must be pulled back and secured. No beards or goatees. No bright colors whatsoever for dyed hair. No mohawks, but high & tight is acceptable. No bright nail polish or large, gaudy jewelry. Ear studs or short earrings for females only. No earrings or studs for males. Emergency Services Gear - Cadets should bring their 24-hour gear to all ES meetings, which are normally the first and second Thursdays of the month. A 24-hour gear list is attached below and can also be found in the cadet's squadron binder.
- In contrast, 72-hour gear is used for overnights and missions. It consists of everything the cadet would need for 72 hours outdoors, but should be able to be carried in one trip, not multiple trips. The 72-hour gear list also is attached at bottom of this page and found in the cadet's squadron binder. The cadet replenishes 24-hour gear with items kept with the 72-hour gear.
- You may wish to view the Ground Team Equipment slides, attached at the bottom of this page.
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How Parents Can Help and Participate - Help with food at our functions.
- Help transport cadets if our van is overflowing -- This is especially true as our numbers grow. It is vital as we get into the summer encampment season.
- Join our Parents Advisory Board to give us feedback and help plan.
- Invite other potential cadets to join and parents to visit -- Cadets who get two other people to join CAP will receive a Recruiter Ribbon.
- Find out how we can visit your school to spread our message -- Send us names and contact information of teachers and administrators, and let us know your school events where we might particiapte.
- Join CAP as a Cadet Sponsor Member.
- Join CAP as a full-fledged Senior Member.
CAP Core Values
Cadets are expected to model and uphold the Civil Air Patrol core values, not only at CAP activities, but also in their lives outside the squadron.
- Respect -- This includes speaking well of other CAP cadets, CAP senior members, and the CAP organization in general. It does not mean we cannot disagree or that we cannot critique behaviors. It does mean that we disagree and critique in a professional manner where communication is a two-way street.
- Excellence -- This does not mean perfection. It does not mean extending yourself in an unsafe manner or beyond your capabilites. It means doing the best you can do at any given task. And it means asking for help when you have hit a brick wall despite your best efforts.
- Integrity -- This is basic honesty. It means doing the right thing, even when no one is looking.
- Volunteer Service -- Service to others before self is a basic Air Force core value. In CAP, however, serving and helping others should NEVER involve putting yourself at undue risk. This value also encompasses helping your fellow man when you are not wearing the CAP uniform.
In addition, you should also know that CAP has a bright-line policy that prohibits drug, tobacco, and alcohol use by cadets at all times.
Useful Links and Other Resources |
Ċ ď Steve Burke, Apr 22, 2009 10:59 AM Ċ ď Steve Burke, Apr 22, 2009 11:00 AM ć ď Steve Burke, Apr 22, 2009 11:02 AM
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The learning curve is steep during the first year in Civil Air Patrol, both for parents and cadets. We toss around a lot of acronyms (like SAREX, FTX) that make it seem like a foreign language. But here are some of the things we have found helpful in orienting you toward CAP.
