GETTING STARTED
WEARING the UNIFORM
STAYING SAFE
ENJOYING a GREAT 1
ST
YEAR
CIVIL AIR PATROL USAF AUXILIARY
NEW CADET GUIDE
CAPP 60-20
April 2017
RALEIGH-WAKE COMPOSITE SQUADRON
The CAP CADET PROGRAM
Transforming youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders
Your Cadet Program is organized around four main elements. Everything you do as a cadet
will point back to one or more of these elements, in one way or another.
Leadership
CAP introduces cadets to Air Force perspectives on
leadership through classroom instruction, mentoring,
and hands-on learning. First, cadets learn to follow, but
as they progress, they learn how to lead small teams,
manage projects, think independently, and develop
leadership skills they can use in adult life.
Aerospace
CAP inspires in youth a love of aviation, space, and
technology. Cadets study the fundamentals of aerospace
science in the classroom and experience flight first-hand
in CAP aircraft. Cyber topics important to the national
defense represent a new frontier. Summer activities
allow cadets to explore aerospace-related careers.
Fitness
CAP encourages cadets to develop a lifelong habit of
regular exercise. The Cadet Program promotes fitness
through calisthenics, hiking, rappelling, obstacle courses,
competitions, and other vigorous activities. A compre-
hensive fitness test based on age, gender, and cadet
rank challenges cadets.
Character
CAP challenges cadets to live their Core Values. Through
character forums, cadets discuss ethical issues relevant
to teens. Chaplains often lead the discussions, but the
forums are not religious meetings. CAP also encourages
cadets to promote a drug free ethic in their schools and
communities.
WELCOME
t
o
t
he
You won’t just honor
America, you’ll solidify
your character.
You’ll learn to lead and
conquer challenges as a
team.
Where’s the best place
to study aerospace? The
cockpit!
Being a cadet means
getting into shape and
growing stronger.
C I V I L A I R PAT R O
1
FACTS ABOUT YOUR CIVIL AIR PATROL
O L
C A D E T CO R P S
BASIC EXPECTATIONS for 1st YEAR CADETS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Five First Tasks 3
Chain of Command 3
Wingmen Speak Up 4
Rank Up! Making the Grade 5
Physical Fitness 6
Cadet Uniforms 7
Cadet Awards & Decorations 10
Social Media 11
Drug-Free Ambassadors 11
SQ3R Study Skills 11
Personal Productivity 12
Cadet Super Chart 13
Personal Cadet Tracker 15
Your Cadet Career & Beyond 17
Y
G
V
G
V
G Z
Z
Y
Z
Y
Y V
G Z
V
“
O
f
f
w
e
g
o
i
n
t
o
t
h
e
w
i
l
d
b
l
u
e
y
o
n
d
e
r
,
C
l
i
m
b
i
n
g
h
i
g
h
i
n
t
o
t
h
e
s
u
n
.
.
.
”
2
CAPP 60-20, New Cadet Guide, April 2017
Supersedes:
New Cadet Guide
, November 2014
Revisions: Added Curry Blues Voucher, CEAP, and ABU information.
Updated cadet fitness test information. See page 5 for a note about
the CPFT. Updated SDA information on the
Cadet Super Chart
and
Personal Cadet Tracker.
Further SDA information is being released
later in 2017.
p Stay with CAP for at least 1 year.
Give the cadet experience a chance
to impact your life.
p Attend your weekly squadron
meetings.
p Attend one “Saturday” event per
month, if available.
p Attend encampment. It’s an
awesome, week-long, overnight
activity immersing you into all
facets of cadet life.
p Earn the Wright Brothers’
Award during your first year.
If a family, school, or other commitment requires you to miss a CAP
activity, please let your squadron leaders know in advance.
CAP’s BIRTH DATE 1 December 1941, six days before Pearl Harbor
CAP CORE VALUES Integrity Service Excellence Respect
CAP MOTTO Semper Vigilans — Always Vigilant
CAP’s THREE MISSIONS Aerospace Education
Cadet Programs
Emergency Services
CAP CADET MISSION To develop dynamic Americans and
aerospace leaders
CAP CADET VISION Today’s cadets . . . tomorrow’s aerospace leaders
The FOUR ELEMENTS Leadership Aerospace Fitness Character
of the CADET PROGRAM
Note: In some squadrons, some of
these positions may be kept vacant.
DEPUTY COMMANDER
FOR CADETS
(Composite squadrons only)
CADET
COMMANDER
YOU
Senior Members (adults)
are shown in red
Cadets are shown in blue
SQUADRON
COMMANDER
Your SQUADRON’S
CHAIN
of COMMAND
1
4
2
3
5
FIRST TASKS for NEW CADETS
6
Create an account in eServices
• Visit capmembers.com > “Register for eServices”
Get Into Uniform
• You need one uniform to get started. Eventually you’ll want to
have both the camouflage utility uniform (ABUs or BDUs), and
the service uniform, “blues.”
• Upon completing Achievement 1 and becoming a Cadet Airman,
you’ll qualify for the Curry Blues Voucher, which covers some of
the costs of the “blues” uniform.
•
Therefore, we suggest you obtain BDUs or ABUs first, and then
use the Curry Blues Voucher to obtain your “blues.”
• Uniform items may be purchased through a variety of sources.
The official source for CAP insignia and uniforms is Vanguard.
Shop with them at
civilairpatrolstore.com, (800)221-1264.
• If you’re near an Air Force base, you can buy uniform garments
(but not CAP insignia) at the Exchange or base thrift store.
• Speak to your squadron leaders about local options, too. Some-
times the squadron has a “supply closet,” and military surplus
stores could be another option.
Look Around
•
Look through this New Cadet Guide booklet.
Read Learn to Lead, Chapter 1
• You’ll need to pass a 25-question, open-book test on this material
to complete Achievement 1 and qualify for promotion to Cadet Airman
.
Pay attention to the learning objectives and use them to quiz yourself.
Pass the Learn to Lead Chapter 1 Test
• Take your online test at capmembers.com > eServices login >
Cadet Testing > Leadership Exams > Leadership Chapter 1 Exam.
• Record your passing score on the Personal Cadet Tracker on page 15.
Plan to Attend Encampment
• Encampment is a full immersion into all the opportunities of cadet
life. It’ll be the high point of your first year!
• Most encampments are 1-week in duration and held during the
summer. Ask your squadron for details and mark your calendar.
• The Cadet Encampment Assistance Program (CEAP, say “seep”)
can help you with tuition and uniform costs.
3
6
FIRST
SERGEANT
FLIGHT
COMMANDER
ELEMENT
LEADER
WINGMAN
First person to see for help
& the person you help
PARENTS
KEY FACTS to REMEMBER
SQUADRON
NAME
UNIT
CHARTER
NUMBER
CAPID
Region
Wing
Number
FLIGHT
SERGEANT
A single individual cannot run the squadron. It takes a team of
leaders called the “chain of command.” The “chain” is an order
of authority, a way in which leaders share the burden of running
the squadron, or a company, or any organization.
The chain links the most junior person – you, the new cadet –
with the highest ranking leader in the organization. Complete
the chart on the right to identify your squadron’s chain. You’ll
be expected to memorize this.
When you have a question or concern, use the chain to get
help. Try to resolve issues at the lowest level. You can look-up
a person’s contact information in eServices.
RALEIGH-WAKE COMPOSITE SQUADRON
M E R N C 0 4 8
“KNOCK IT OFF”
If you see something that does
not look safe to you, speak up! Any cadet
may sound the Air Force command, “KNOCK
IT OFF
” if he or she thinks someone might
get hurt.
When you hear “KNOCK IT OFF” immediately
stop what you are doing and await further
instructions.
Safety is serious business. No one wants to
get hurt, and if someone is injured, the
team might not complete its mission. Pay
special attention to what your wingman is
doing and how he or she looks or feels be-
cause you have a special duty to keep your
wingman safe.
The Air Force teaches that a wingman will always safeguard his or her
lead. And, that a lead never lets his or her wingman stray into danger.
Cadets at all levels have a role as wingmen.
Being a good wingman means taking care of fellow cadets and telling a
trusted adult when you see signs of trouble. This is extra important if your
wingman is about to make a poor decision or shows signs of hurting.
WARNING SIGNS of ABUSE
Keep your wingman and all fellow cadets safe from anyone who is trying
to hurt them. If you think a cadet is being abused, speak up. Tell any adult
you trust. And speak up if you see someone doing anything like this:
Giving a lot of special attention to certain cadets
Asking to see a cadet outside of CAP activities
Being sneaky or asking a cadet to keep secrets
Trying to be alone with a cadet for no good reason
Talking about stuff that is way too personal and creepy
Sending a lot of private texts or messages to a cadet
Pressuring a cadet to lie to someone
Making a cadet disobey normal CAP rules and regulations
HOW to SOUND THE ALARM
Don’t worry about following the chain of command, just go see an adult
you trust and tell of your concerns. No one can “order” you to keep quiet.
No one can try to get back at you for being a good wingman. If you bring
serious problems to CAP senior members, they will keep that information
as private as they can, telling only those adults who have a need to know.
REAL COURAGE
Sounding off with your concerns is not a sissy or childish response. Doing
so may feel uncomfortable, and so it takes guts A four-star general put it
this way. “We value courage in this business.” Sometimes the bravest thing
you can do is to do what’s right: speak up.
WINGMEN SPEAK UP
How can you help keep
yourself and fellow cadets safe
for awesome challenges?
4
h
e
r
W
IN
GM
AN
t
h
e
L
E
A
D
+
Cadets overcome challenges. Fly. Learn. They have fun and rise to the expectations that
have been set for them and are symbolized by the U.S. Air Force style uniform they wear.
Welcome, and get ready for a life-changing experience!
RANK UP!
MAKING
the GRADE
Get started by learning how the system works:
Look at the diagram below for a general overview on promotions, and look at the
Cadet Super Chart on page 13 for the details.
Passing the tests and being an active member makes you eligible for promotion, but your
personal performance as a cadet also counts. This is where the “leadership expectations”
shown on the Cadet Super Chart come into play. Keep those expectations on your mind.
They tell you what sort of skills and attitudes you need to focus on to earn promotions.
Each time you earn a promotion, you receive a new cadet grade and grade insignia. The
higher you climb in the Cadet Program, more exciting activities and leadership opportunities
become available to you, but your squadron will also expect you to accept new responsibili-
ties and perform at an even higher level of excellence.
LEADERSHIP
Pass written test
Pass drill test
AEROSPACE
Pass written test
FITNESS
Attempt CPFT
Participate in activity
CHARACTER
Participate in activity
PARTICIPATE
ACTIVELY
In your commander’s
judgment
LEADERSHIP
PERFORMANCE
Leadership Expectations
on Super Chart
CURRENT
MEMBERSHIP
Basic eligibility requirements
complete in any order
aerospace is not always required; see Super Chart or Tracker
Personal performance requirements
commander reviews after you meet
the basic eligibility requirements
Administrative requirements
commander reviews after you meet
the basic eligibility requirements
+
+
+
CADET OATH
Recite from memory
Promotion
+
FEEDBACK
MEETING
Optional
+
PROMOTION
CEREMONY
or Commander’s
Approval
you may now begin working on
the next achievement or award . . .
TIME in GRADE
Serve in your current
grade for at least
56 days (8 weeks)
+
Basic Overview, Simplified for New Cadets
Cadet Promotion Requirements
The Spaatz Award garners
the grade of Cadet Colonel.
5
*
*
1. Some squadrons use
a slightly different fitness
test than what you see
here and on page 6, but
everyone will transition
to this test in 2017.
2. Phase I cadets attempt
the CPFT every 180 days
and participate in at least
one fitness activity per
achievement. Beginning
at the Wright Brothers
Award, cadets continue
participating in one activ-
ity per achievement, but
also must have achieved
the Healthy Fitness Zone
on the CPFT within the
previous 180 days.
Notes about the
Cadet Physical
Fitness Test
Y
o
u
r
N
a
m
e
9
9
9
9
PHYSICAL FITNESS
A
pilot’s lifestyle needs to be airworthy. The human body is fragile, and when we fly we are
working in an environment for which our bodies weren’t designed. Therefore, physical fitness
is a key aspect for aviation and spaceflight. CAP encourages cadets to develop a habit of exer-
cising regularly for 30 minutes per day at least three times per week.
T
he Cadet Physical Fitness Test
To advance as a cadet, you’ll need to get into shape, or if you’re already fit, we want you to beat
your personal best. Squadrons will host fun fitness activities every month to help. About once a
quarter you’ll attempt a fitness test to see where you’re at. As a new cadet, how well you per-
form initially doesn’t matter – what counts is that you gradually improve. The basic rules for the
five CPFT events are described below. See the Cadet Super Chart on pages 13-14 for the goals for
your age and gender.
Note: The CPFT standards
differ slightly for cadets
who have medical issues.
For more information, talk
with your local leaders.
Curl-Ups (Crunches)
Get a strip of paper 4
1
⁄2” wide
and 30” long. Lie on a mat with
legs straight, and then raise knees
until feet are flat, arms straight
by your sides. Place strip under
legs so that fingertips are just
resting on the nearest edge.
Curl up, sliding fingers across
the strip to far side, then curl
back down until head touches
the mat and repeat, doing exactly
one curl-up every 3 seconds.
Push-Ups
Start in the “up” position, arms
fully extended, then go down,
keeping your back and knees
straight, until your elbows are
at 90
O
, then up again, doing
exactly one push-up every
3 seconds.
Sit-and-Reach
Take off your shoes, sit on the
ground with your legs fully
extended and the soles of your
feet against a stair or curb. Your
left knee is bent with the sole of
your foot flat on the floor. Then
with palms face down, reach as
far as you can without bouncing.
Switch sides and repeat.
1-Mile Run
Run on a track if you can, or
alternatively, on a flat road
course that has little to no
traffic. Run against traffic so
you can see the cars coming.
If running at night, wear a
reflective vest. Follow the
run/walk method below if
you’re new to running.
6
The Pacer
Jog 20 meters and touch the line
with your foot by the time the
beep sounds. Then, at the next
beep, run back to the other end.
The beeps will get faster, requir-
ing you to increase your pace.
Continue in this manner until you
fail to reach the line before the
beep for the second time.
School Equivalent:
The CPFT is based on the
Presidential Youth Fitness
Program. Phys Ed teachers
at school probably know
how to administer the test
and can help you.
The run/walk is a smart way to get into shape. Even marathon runners
train this way, so there’s nothing wimpy about it. It just works.
Start at whichever level and session feels comfortable. Jog at a pace
that allows you to talk without getting winded. Your goal is to run for
a certain amount of time until the walk break, and then to repeat that
run/walk for a total of 25 to 35 minutes. Don’t worry about distance or
speed. At the end of your run, walk for a few minutes to cool down.
Run / Walk Training
Get Going! Here’s how to get started on your own, or better yet, with your wingman:
• To warm-up, take each exercise slow and easy at first. For the run, walk briskly for a few min-
utes and then start your jog, using the run/walk method below. For the strength events, spend a
few minutes moving your body in “dynamic stretches” with arm circles, leg swings, and hip circles.
For the sit-and-reach, practice the reach a few times nice and easy before trying for real.
• Do curl-ups at a steady cadence for 1 minute (beginners) or 2 minutes (fit cadets).
• Do 5, 10, or 20 good push-ups in one session. Start slow at first, but over a couple weeks,
try to get where you can do 5 or 10 more than you were able to do at first.
Week Monday Wednesday Friday Saturday
1 15 min walk 20 min walk 20 min walk 30 min walk
2 2/2 x6 2/2 x7 2/2 x7 2/2 x7
3 2/2 x6 3/2 x6 3/2 x6 3/2 x7 *Mile
4 3/2 x5 4/2 x5 4/2 x5 4/2 x6
5 4/2 x5 4/1 x5 4/1 x5 4/1 x6 Mile
6 4/1 x5 5/1 x5 5/1 x5 5/1 x6
7 5/1 x5 6/1 x5 6/1 x5 6/1 x6 Mile
8 6/1 x4 7/1 x4 7/1 x4 7/1 x5
9 7/1 x4 8/1 x3 8/1 x3 8/1 x4 Mile
10 8/1 x3 9/1 x3 9/1 x3 10/1 x3
What does 2/2 x 6 mean?
Run 2 minutes, walk 2 minutes,
repeat 6 times.
*Mile: Run/walk on a track to
see how long it takes to complete
the first mile, and check how
you’re doing working toward
your CPFT mile run goal.
If you’re r
eally str
uggling,
repea
t that week’s
pl
an befor
e ad
vanci
ng.
The PROPER WEAR of AIR FORCE-STYLE CADET UNIFORMS
Air Force "Blues" Uniform
Flight cap (male) CAP0994k
Flight cap (female) CAP1015J
Cadet flight cap device CAP0748A
Light blue, s/sleeve shirt (male) CAP1001A
Light blue, s/sleeve blouse (female) CAP1017
Blue 3-Line nameplate (last name) CAP0599M
Blue trousers (male) CAP0993K
Blue trousers (female) CAP3500A
Blue skirt (female) CAP3600A
Blue belt (with silver buckle) 2500500
Shoes or pumps na
Undershirt: plain white, v-neck na
Camouflage "ABU" Replacing the BDU
ABU cap CAP0991U
ABU shirt CAP0991F
ABU pants CAP0991O
“Civil Air Patrol” cloth tape CAP6403
Cloth nametape (last name) CAP6402
ABU tan rigger belt 2510700
Combat boots
Male CAP2900A
Female CAP3300
Boot blousers 2650175
Undershirt (desert tan) CAP0991Z
Camouflage "BDU" Phasing out June 2021
"Civil Air Patrol" cloth tape CAP6403
Cloth nametape (last name) CAP6402
BDU belt (with black buckle) 2500510
Combat boots
Male CAP2900A
Female CAP3300
Boot blousers 2650175
Undershirt: plain black na
CADET UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA
CAP’s vendor for uniform insignia is Vanguard at
CivilAirPatrolStore.com, (800) 221-1264.
Some squadrons keep these items on hand and
the garments (but not insignia) may be available
at the nearest Air Force installation, so check with
your local leaders before making any purchases.
7
THERE IS ONLY
1
RIGHT
WAY
the
to
WEAR
the UNIFORM:
WAY
F
M
Flight cap device is centered on
l
eft side, 1
1
⁄2”
from edge. Male and
female flight caps are slightly differ-
ent in style but prescribe the same
rule for placing the device.
1
1
⁄2 inches, centered
Blue nametag (males) rests on but
not over the right breast pocket,
centered.
Blue nametag (females) is
centered on right breast, even with
or up to 1
1
⁄2 inches higher or lower
than the first exposed button, paral-
lel to the ground.
Chevrons rest 1-inch from the
c
ollar edge, parallel to that edge
and centered. Chevrons are worn
on both collars and in the same
manner on BDUs and Blues alike.
Until you earn your first stripe, you
won’t wear anything on your collar.
Ribbons (males) rest centered on,
but not over, the left breast pocket.
Wear of ribbons is optional on the
light blue shirt.
Ribbons (females) rest centered
on left breast, parallel to ground.
The bottom of the set of ribbons is
even with the bottom of the name-
tag. Wear of ribbons is optional on
the light blue shirt.
YOU R UN I FOR M is a visual representation of a your commitment to the Core Values. Because
u
niforms are unique — only CAP cadets wear the CAP cadet uniform — they are a source of pride. Wearing
the uniform is part of your leadership training. The uniform helps you develop self-discipline, personal
responsibility, and self-respect. Whenever you wear the uniform, you represent not just yourself but also
all of CAP and the U.S. Air Force, so wear the uniform with pride.
Belt & buckle tip of buckle
extends to wearer’s left
(males) or
right
(females). No belt fabric
should show. The edge of the
shirt’s button placket, the edge of
the buckle, and edge of the trouser
fly must align. This alignment is
called the “gig line.”
Wear the silver tipped belt and
buckle with Blues, the tan rigger
belt with ABUs, and the black
tipped belt and buckle with BDUs.
F
M
1 “
Blues pants front of pant leg
should rest on front of shoe, with a
slight break in crease and
7
⁄8” longer
on back
Blues skirt (females) skirt length
will be no longer than bottom of
kneecap or shorter than top of
kneecap.
8
F
M
F
M
F
M
F
M
F
M
F
Cloth CAP tape rests on but not
over the left breast pocket of the
BDUs. Do not cut the excess fab-
ric but fold it under to prevent
fraying.
ABU & BDU pants must be
bloused over combat boots
Chevrons rest 1-inch from the
collar edge, parallel to that edge
and centered. Chevrons are worn
on both collars and in the same
manner on BDUs and Blues alike.
Until you earn your first stripe, you
won’t wear anything on your collar.
1”
Cloth nametape rests on but not
over the right breast pocket of
the BDUs. Do not cut the excess
fabric but fold it under to prevent
fraying.
ABU & BDU Sleeves when
rolled up must touch or come
within 1” of forearm, when bent
at 90
o
angle.
BASIC GROOMING STANDARDS
Females. Except in field conditions, cadets are expected to have a clean appearance
free of dirt and grime. Anti-perspirant / deodorant will be used and toothpaste and
mouthwash as well. Hair must be neatly arranged to present a conservative, feminine
appearance, and may touch but not fall below the bottom edge of the collar. Only
inconspicuous pins and combs may be worn in the hair. Extreme and fad styles are pro-
hibited. Cosmetics are permitted if conservative and in good taste. Hair must not fall
below the front band of the ABU/BDU cap, but may be visible in front of the flight cap.
O
ne small spherical earring per ear is permitted. Necklaces cannot be visible.
Males. Except in field conditions, cadets are expected to have a clean appearance
free of dirt and grime. Anti-perspirant / deodorant will be used and toothpaste and
m
outhwash as well. Hair must appear tapered and be trimmed to not touch the ears,
collar, or eyebrows. Bangs cannot be visible when wearing headgear. Extreme or fad
styles are prohibited. In general, the face must be clean shaven. Sideburns must be
neatly trimmed and end before the bottom of the ear. A neatly trimmed mustache
may also be worn. Earrings are prohibited. Necklaces cannot be visible.
Note: These few pages on the wear of the uniform cover only the most common matters. For full details, see CAPM 39-1 at capmembers.com/pubs.
9
F
M
Battle Dress Utility (BDUs)
Phasing Out, June 2021
Airman Battle Uniform (ABUs)
Replacing BDUs
F
M
F
M
F
M
F
M
F
M
F
M
AFA
H
H
H
H
H
H
Cadet Recruiter Ribbon
Encampment Ribbon
Cadet Special Activities Ribbon
Cadet Advisory Council Ribbon
(solid white in color)
National Cadet Color Guard
Competition Ribbon
National Cadet Drill Team
Competition Ribbon
International Air Cadet
Exchange Ribbon
Rescue “Find” RibbonRed Service Award
Maj Gen John F. Curry
Achievement Ribbon
Air Force Association Award
to Unit Cadet of the Year
Charles A. Lindbergh
Achievement Ribbon
Capt Eddie Rickenbacker
Achievement Ribbon
Amelia Earhart Award Brig Gen Billy Mitchell Award
Community Service RibbonDisaster Relief Ribbon
Veterans of Foreign Wars Award
to Cadet NCO of the Year
Veterans of Foreign Wars Award
to Cadet Officer of the Year
Col Mary Feik
Achievement Ribbon
GAF Henry H. “Hap” Arnold
Achievement Ribbon
Dr. Robert H. Goddard
Achievement Ribbon
Gen. Jimmy Doolittle
Achievement Ribbon
Gen Carl A. Spaatz Award Gen Ira C. Eaker Award
Air Search and Rescue Ribbon
Air Force Sergeants’
Association Award to
Cadet NCO of the Year
Wright Brothers Award
Neil A. Armstrong
Achievement Ribbon
Unit Citation Award
Certificate of Recognition
for Lifesaving Award
National Commander’s
Unit Citation Award
Commander’s Commendation
Award
Achievement Award
Meritorious Service Award
Distinguished Service Medal Exceptional Service Award
Silver Medal of Valor Bronze Medal of Valor
CADET AWARDS & DECORATIONS
See CAPR 39-3 for information on how to earn these awards.
Cadet achievement ribbons and milestone awards are shown atop the
shaded field. Cadets earn them through the normal course of progression
in the Cadet Program.
1. Keep your insignia in a special place at home.
2. Prepare your uniform the night before you wear it.
3. Trim loose strings from buttons, pockets, and belt loops.
4. Use spray starch when ironing.
5. Obtain “enforcers” or put cardboard behind your ribbons.
6. Check your appearance in a full-length mirror.
7. Keep a small cloth with
you to dust your shoes and brass.
8. Check your gig-line upon exiting a car or restroom.
9. Avoid leaning against anything while in uniform.
10. Ask your wingman to double-check your uniform, and
return the favor.
TEN TIPS for LOOKING SHARP in UNIFORM
10
SOCIAL MEDIA & YOU as a CADET
If
you’re on social media, remember that as a CAP cadet, you represent CAP in every-
thing you do. In uniform or out of uniform, your actions reflect upon the Cadet Corps and
the Air Force. Therefore, when you use social media, please:
Be respectful. Don’t bully anyone. Don’t call people names or use profanity.
C
ontinue to address CAP senior members and other adults in positions of
authority as sir or ma’am.
Pause before you post. Once something goes onto the web, it’s there forever.
If you’re angry or frustrated by something, it’s tempting to “get even” or write
something mean-spirited. Online fights and flame wars reflect badly on you. So,
before you post something, pause and think.
Police your own. Help make the web a positive space. If you see a fellow cadet behaving
badly on the web, send a private message reminding him or her of our Core Values. Be a
leader on the web.
Friend & follow. Join the CAP and CAP Cadet Programs Facebook and Twitter feed to
stay informed about cadet programs news.
STUDY SKILLS to HELP YOU EARN PROMOTIONS
AMBASSADORS
of the DRUG-FREE ETHIC
Because of their Core Values, the Air Force Surgeon General has challenged cadets to be
ambassadors of a drug-free ethic. Of course, cadets don’t use drugs, but they also lead
other youth through their example. Because the U.S. Air Force does not tolerate drug use,
neither does CAP. Through activities such as the Red Ribbon Leadership Academy, you’ll
be called upon to impart your drug-free attitude upon younger (non-cadet) youth.
Survey
Look through the assignment. Get a sense for what you’re about to read.
Question
As you read, turn every title or subheading into a question.
Example: The subheading “Definition of Leadership” becomes “What is the definition of leadership?”
Read
Read one section at a time to find answers to the “question” you created. Highlight key passages.
Put the author’s words into your own by writing little notes in the margins.
Recite
Go back to that section’s beginning. Recite the “question” you created and answer it in your mind,
without looking at the book
Review
Get your notepad and outline what you’ve read. The day before the test, review those notes.
A proven way to study so you can earn the
Spaatz or a Service Academy appointment.
S
R
Q
3
11
No matter what your goals are, it’s a challenge to get
things done, to keep up with all the “stuff” in your life.
“Stuff” is anything that shouts for your attention:
F h
omework assignments
F b
ig projects at school
F chores at home F events with friends
F family events F cadet promotion tasks
F cadet activities F summer job schedule
You’re Surrounded. One tricky aspect to “stuff” is that it
comes at you from many directions. Your teacher orally
announces homework. Your mom leaves a note on the
fridge asking you to mow the lawn on Saturday. CAP lead-
ers send you emails. Phone calls. Text messages. Ugh!
Get a System. To keep all this “stuff” straight, you need a
system. You need to handle all the “stuff” in the same
manner everyday. The good news is that having a system
brings order to chaos, reduces stress, and help you achieve.
“Getting Things Done” The diagram below shows how
the GTD system works. As “stuff” comes at you each day,
begin to gather it into one place. Then, at a regular time
each day, go through that “bucket of stuff,” one item at a
time. Look at each email or piece of paper or text mes-
sage and ask, “What is this?” Follow the diagram below to
decide how to handle that “stuff.” If you can take care of
the thing in less than 2 minutes, do so right away. If you
can’t, set it aside to do at on a specific day and time later.
Set an alarm to remind you. Then put it out of your mind.
Key principles of “Getting Things Done”
1. Get everything that has your attention out of your
head and capture it in a trusted place.
2. Decide what very next specific thing you need to do
to finish that project. Set an alarm with your computer.
3. Define and keep track of all the big projects and big
commitments you have. Decide what’s a small task and
what’s a big, multi-step project.
4. Consistently update and review your master list of
commitments. This will free your mind because you’ll
learn to trust your system of “getting things done.”
PERSONAL PRODUCTIVITY: How to “GET THINGS DONE”
“Millennials are constantly plugged in and moving fast to make their mark on the world.” — CNN
Special thanks to David Allen Company for making the copyrighted text and diagram on this page available to cadets.
12
13
14
15
16
LOOKING AHEAD: YOUR CA
TES
T F
L
Y a
C
A
R
EER
LOOKING BACK:
a HISTORY of
CIVIL AIR PATROL
AIR FORCE CAREERS
Civil Engineering Familiarization Course
Cyber Defense Familiarization Course
Pararescue Orientation Course
Space Command Familiarization Course
Undergraduate Pilot Training Familiarization Course
AVIATION CAREERS
Aircraft Manufacturing & Maintenance Academy
Cadet Aviation Ground School
Glider & Powered Flight Academies
Model Aircraft & Remote Control Flight Academy
National Blue Beret (EAA Airventure)
LEADERSHIP & PUBLIC SERVICE CAREERS
Cadet Officer School
Civic Leadership Academy*
Hawk Mountain Ranger Search and Rescue School
International Air Cadet Exchange
National Cadet Competition
National Character & Leadership Symposium*
National Emergency Services Academy
TECHNOLOGY CAREERS
E-Tech: Engineering Technologies Academy
E-Tech: Robotics
*
denotes a winter activity; announced in late September
N
ational Cadet Special Activities are one of the highlights of the cadet program.
These summer activities focus on career exploration, leadership development,
s
earch and rescue skills, aeronautical training, Air Force familiarization, govern-
ment, and a variety of other topics to interest any cadet.
To attend an NCSA cadets must achieve a certain age and rank, which varies, have
completed an Encampment, and go through a selection process. Activities are
announced in December for the coming summer. Check out
ncsas.com for details.
Civil Air Patrol was conceived in the
late 1930s by aviation advocate Gill
Robb Wilson, who imagined that civil-
ian pilots could help support the mili-
tary. CAP was created on 1 December
1941, just one week prior to the attack
on Pearl Harbor. An active duty Army
officer, Maj. Gen. John F. Curry, served
as the first national commander.
Thousands of volunteers answered
America's call to national service and
sacrifice by performing critical wartime
missions. Assigned to the War Depart-
ment under the jurisdiction of the Army
Air Corps, the contributions of Civil Air
Patrol, including logging more than
500,000 flying hours, sinking two
enemy submarines, and saving hun-
dreds of crash victims during World
War II, are well documented. More than
150,000 volunteers – including women,
young people, and senior citizens –
gave their time and talents in defense
of America.
After the war, a thankful nation under-
stood that Civil Air Patrol could con-
tinue providing valuable services to
both local and national agencies. On
July 1, 1946, Civil Air Patrol was incor-
porated as a benevolent, nonprofit
organization. On May 26, 1948, Con-
gress permanently established Civil Air
Patrol as the auxiliary of the new U.S.
Air Force. Three primary mission areas
were set forth at that time: aerospace
education, cadet programs, and emer-
gency services.
In 2014, the 113th Congress, passed
legislation awarding the a Congressional
Gold Medal to the World War II-era
members of the Civil Air Patrol. The
medal would be presented "in recogni-
tion of their military service and exem-
plary record during World War II."
17
DET CAREER & BEYOND
Cadets aid adult CAP volunteers in conducting search and rescue and humanitarian missions as
qualified radio operators, ground team members, and mission staff assistants. Cadets have been
credited with locating downed aircraft, finding missing persons, helping in the wake of natural
disasters, and saving lives. “ES” is serious business. If you’re joining CAP at, say, age 16 or older,
the ES mission might be something you should check out. Here’s how to get started:
Thinking about the military, college, or flight training?
R.O.T.C. Air Force ROTC is a college program offered at
more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the U.S. It
prepares you to become an Air Force Officer while earning
a college degree. Earn your Mitchell Award to receive extra
consideration for an AFROTC scholarship.
After earning your degree and completing ROTC require-
ments, contracted cadets accept a commission as second
lieutenants in the Air Force. The length of your initial serv-
ice commitment depends on your career. Most cadets
make a four-year, active duty service commitment. Pilots,
nursing graduates and some others will have longer serv-
ice arrangements. Check out afrotc.com for more details.
Enlistment. The Air Force is proud of CAP cadets. If you
earn your Mitchell Award and enlist in the Air Force, you’ll be
eligible to start out as an Airman First Class (E-3).
College & Flight Training. Even if you’re not inter-
ested in the military, CAP can help you prepare for your
future through college
and flight training
scholarships. Earn
your Mitchell Award to
become eligible to
apply, then see
capmembers.com/
scholarships for details.
The Academy. Attending
the U.S. Air Force Academy
is a dream for many CAP
cadets. The Academy offers
a top-ranked education and a
world of opportunity. If the
USAFA is your dream, start
preparing now. Earn your Mitchell Award
and apply for CAP’s special path to the Academy through
the USAFA Preparatory School. See capmembers.com/
scholarship. In the meantime:
F Study hard. Get the best grades you can in all subjects
— especially English, math and science.
F Join a sports team. If your school does not have a sports
program, you can usually find one at your local community
park or recreation center.
F Be a leader. CAP will
give you the tools you
need to lead yourself
and others. Participate
actively and learn from
your mentors.
F Show your character. Consider
activities that help others. Get involved with
church groups or other organizations that
support your community.
Percent of
USAFA
cadets
who got
their start in
CAP
(on average)
Once qualified in General ES you choose a specialty and work
towards qualification in that area. Common specialties for cadets
include Mission Staff Assistant, Mission Radio Operator, Ground
Team Member, and Flight Line Marshall. Emergency service
operations vary in different areas, so talk to your squadron ES
officer about the training and opportunities available to you.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Have a current CAP membership
2. Complete Achievement 1 and earn C/Amn.
3. Study CAP Regulations 60-3 and 173-3
and pass CAP Test 116. You can do this on
your own via eServices.
Train to assist in a crisis through CAP’s Emergency Services
10%
18
Welcome to the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. This booklet is the
new cadet’s #1 source for introductory information about cadet life.
For web-based help, please see
capmembers.com/newcadet.
TODAY’S CADETS: TOMORROW’S AEROSPACE LEADERS
THE CADET OATH
I pledge that I will serve faithfully
in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program
and that I will attend meetings regularly
participate actively in unit activities
obey my officers
wear my uniform properly
and advance my education and training rapidly
to prepare myself to be of service
to my community, state, and nation.
Lt Col J. Jay Langley - Squadron Commander
1st Lt Alex Ramos - Deputy Commander for Cadets
[email protected] // (919) 906-8440
[email protected] // (760) 201-9865
