CAP's
cadet program is designed to inspire the country's
youth to become leaders and good American citizens
through their interest in aerospace. Cadets work their
way through a series of achievements by completing
studies and other activities. As they progress, they
earn higher rank, awards and ribbons, or certificates.
Some of the achievements include aerospace education,
moral leadership, physical fitness, drill and ceremonies,
leadership laboratory, and other special activities.
They may become eligible for national or international
special activities and academic or flying scholarships.
Although membership in Civil Air Patrol does not obligate
anyone to join the military, when cadets complete
their initial training phase, they earn the General
Billy Mitchell Award, which entitles them to enter
the Air Force at a pay grade of E-3, should they choose
to enlist.
One
of the most popular activities of cadets, is the flying
program. Cadets are eligible for orientation flights
in military and CAP aircraft. Other activities include
search and rescue, first aid, CPR, radio communications,
summer encampments, cadet officer school, survival
training, model rocketry, and the like. Advanced cadets
may participate in the International Air Cadet Exchange
where about 120 cadets and their adult escorts travel
to one of some 20 foreign countries. In return, cadets
from foreign lands visit the United States as guests
of Civil Air Patrol and the US Air Force. These trips
promote goodwill and understanding among the world's
youth who share a common interest in aviation.
