Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does CAP do?
A: CAP participates in flight training, emergency services, search and rescue missions, as well as squadron level activities, which can be anything from training, to camping with other squadrons.
Q: Why does CAP sound so much like Boy Scouts?
A: First of all, we are not affiliated with them AT ALL. Some members are also members of scouts, but the similarities top there. We have a chain of command that in no way resembles the organizational properties of the Boy Scouts. We are the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force, and as such, we wear uniforms that resemble theirs, we do flight time in our own aircraft, and our drill teams are far ahead of anything the scouts have.
Q: Do you wear uniforms?
A: Yes. We wear standard Battle Dress Uniforms, or BDUs, and Blues uniforms for official occasions, and for week 1 of our schedual.
Q: Where do cadets fit into the program?
A: Cadets who are certified for search and rescue, CPR, and ROA certified, can participate on a ground team that would search for lost hikers, downed airplanes, etc. Cadets also have the option to participate in the flight program, which allows cadets to fly a Cessna small aircraft with an FAA certified pilot.
Q: How old do you have to be to join CAP?
A: You must be either twelve years old, or in the sixth grade to join as a cadet, and at least 18 years old to join as a senior member.
Q: Who can join CAP?
A: Anyone who fits the age requirements may join CAP.
Q: Do you learn to fly?
A: If you chose to. The cadet orientation program gives any cadet the opportunity to fly for free.
Q: Does flying cost any money?
A: The cadet orientation course is free, and the pilot training program costs approximately $45 an hour to fly. That program allows you to earn an FAA certification as a private pilot. A normal private pilot can charge as much as $200 an hour.
Q: How much does it cost to join?
A: $41 to join as a cadet. This can be negotiated if there are any money difficulties.
Q: What training is available?
A: CAP members can be qualified for Ground Team, which includes ROA (radio operators authorization), CPR, and First Aid by the American Red Cross, map and compass reading skills, and practice missions. Members can also receive flight training in a Cessna 172R, and teamwork, and leadership schools are also offered.
Q: How do I convert from normal time to military time?
A: (you will need to know this, since many times in the schedule, as well as on activity notifications is in military time) You simply add 12 hours to any p.m. time. For example the meeting times are at 1800-2030hrs.
1800 2030
-12 hrs -12 hrs
6:00 pm 8:30 pm
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