About

What is the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)?

Since the Civil Air Patrol's formation during the earliest days of World War II, this vigilant organization of citizen airman are committed to service to America.  Founded on December 1, 1941, to mobilize the Nation's civilian aviation resources for national defense, CAP evolved into a premier public service organization that still carries out emergency service missions when needed - in the air and on the ground.

As a Total Force partner and Auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, Civil Air Patrol is there to search for and find the lost, provide comfort in times of disaster and work to keep the homeland safe.  Its 60,000 members selflessly devote their time, energy and expertise toward the well-being of their communities, while also promoting aviation and related fields through aerospace/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) education and helping shape furture leaders through CAP's cadet program. 

Civil Air Patrol's missions for America are many, and today's adults and cadets perform their duties with the same vigilance as its founding members - preserving over 75 years of CAP's legacy of service while maintaining its commitment to nearly 1,500 communities nationwide. 

Mission Statement

Supporting America's communities with emergency response, diverse aviation and ground services, youth development and promotion of air, space and cyber power.

Vision Statement

Civil Air Patrol, America's Air Force auxiliary, building the nation's finest force of citizen volunteers serving America.

Core Values

Integrity, Volunteerism, Excellence and Respect.