Becoming a Civil Air Patrol Member

1.  Learn about the Civil Air Patrol missions from this site, and: CAP National Website     2.  Find one or more Civil Air Patrol squadron(s) near you to visit:   Squadron Locator     3.  Attend a meeting at one or more squadron(s) to:   Talk with the Commander and members about the squadron; Observe how they conduct their meetings as there will be variations.   4.  Select the squadron that you like best and fits best with your schedule and talk with the unit commander about membership.     If it seems like a good fit, the commander will probably recommend attending a few more meetings before filling out an application and paying your National & Local Dues.       For Parents:     Civil Air Patrol's National Headquarters publishes the following guides for parents of prospective cadets: Parents' Guide to CAP (PDF, 720K)   This brochure explains the basic goals and policies of the CAP Cadet Program. The contents include: Welcome Overview of the Cadet Program Cadet Activities Cadet Membership Partnering with Parents Testimonials       Investing in America's Youth   (PDF, 1.8mb)   This pamphlet summarizes how CAP transforms youth into leaders through the Cadet Program. Subtitled "A Strategic Overview of CAP Cadet Programs," the pamphlet considers what long-term outcomes the Cadet Program achieves for America and the cadets themselves. Contents include discussions about how CAP: Develops leadership skills in youth Develops youth into responsible citizens Develops character in youth  Inspires in youth a love of aviation and space Introduces youth to aerospace careers Motivates youth for academic success     Some Tips on Membership   1.  Civil Air Patrol is an all volunteer organization.  Being an effective participant does require a certain degree of commitment.       2.  Come with a good "can-do" attitude.  Look forward to being challenged and being supported in your accomplishments.   3.  Respect your uniform.  You will be a member of the Auxilliary of the United States Air Force, and according to regulations will be permitted to wear a variant of the Air Force uniform.  Keep it neat, clean, and pressed at all times.  Learn how to use an iron if you don't already know.  Keep your shoes and boots polished.   4.  Come prepared to have fun.  There are many opportunities for fun activities in Civil Air Patrol.  Understand that sometimes there is a certain amount of work to be accomplished in order for the fun stuff to happen.  Pitch in, and everyone will benefit.     Membership Forms:   Cadet Form (CAPF 15)    Cadet Membership Form {DOC}     Senior/Officer Form (CAPF 12)    Senior/Officer Membership Form {DOC}