Civil Air Patrol recruiting new members

  • Published
  • By Capt. Gail Harper
  • Edwards AFB Composite Squadron 84
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Today, Civil Air Patrol is over 72 years old, growing stronger each and every day. This is due to enthusiastic individuals willing to carry on the mission's core values: integrity, volunteerism, excellence and respect.

The CAP owes gratitude to the 1930s' legendary New Jersey aviation advocate, Gill Robb Wilson, who visualized general aviation as a potential supplement for United States Military operations. With the help of New York Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, the Civil Air Patrol was formed Dec. 1, 1941, just six days before the United States entered World War II.

Today, CAP is an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and is currently known for its three main missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services.

During WW II, CAP flew 24 million miles and found 172 submarines, attacking 57, hitting 10 and sinking two. By the end of the war, 64 CAP members were killed in the line of duty. After the war, the nation thanked and recognized CAP's value to its local and national agencies.

President Harry Truman signed Public Law 476, July 1, 1946, enabling the Civil Air Patrol as a charitable, nonprofit organization. On May 26, 1948, Congress passed Law 557 permanently establishing Civil Air Patrol as an auxiliary of the United States Air Force.

Today, Civil Air Patrol has a national count of more than 34,000 volunteer adults, senior members mentoring cadets and young adults.

The organization has broadened the horizons of many young students and adults through its cadet programs, which include aerospace education, leadership, character development and physical fitness. The organization provides unlimited opportunities and experiences for interested new members and its legacy paves the way for successful years in the future.

Presently, Edwards AFB CAP Composite Squadron 84 of the California Wing has an advantage over other CAP squadrons in the area because of its unique historical, aerospace education and experiences. The Edwards AFB flightline offers a lifetime of aeronautical testing and training. Our squadron has had the privilege to fly aboard the C-17 cargo aircraft and the KC-135 refueling tanker, as well as observing a midair refueling mission with the B-2 Stealth Bomber. Flightline tours, including NASA and Global Hawk are other opportunities on Edwards, which have been appreciated by current members.

Individuals interested in joining the Civil Air Patrol may attend a Squadron 84 weekly meeting, which are held Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. We are located at 1518 Forbes Ave., bldg. 1850.

For more information, contact Maj. Brian Bauer, CAP squadron commander at (505) 980-1496; or email bauerb.cap@gmail.com.