Civil Air Patrol develops leadership & character Published May 16, 2008 By Capt Elizabeth Goude, CAP Squadron 45 Asst. Safety Officer MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. -- Civil Air Patrol Squadron 45, March ARB had the privilege of touring the USS Midway. We were joined by cadets from Squadron 29 and cadets and senior officers from Squadron 6750. The volunteers who explained the displays and answered our questions were not just interesting, but their enthusiasm and first person stories gave an amazing picture of life on an aircraft carrier. The opportunity to tour a ship that both my uncle and older brother served on was special for me. Twice, I was stopped and asked if I wouldn't mind having my picture taken (with non-American tourists). A Cub Scout leader asked me about our CAP program. Then there were the kids who asked for autographs from both cadets and senior officers. At the end when we all got together for a group photo, people passing by were taking pictures of us! The defining moment was when the lady standing next to me in line said "I'd like to thank you for all you do." And all I could do was say "you're welcome." I accepted her thanks for my son in the Army and my nephew in the Air Force as well as my best friend's son who is in Iraq today. CAP Sq 45 is honored to represent the Air Force as its Auxiliary, and we want to extend our thanks along with our appreciation for all that you do: giving us space on base, and allowing us to use the RTS Center, for taking time to speak at our meetings, helping with promotions and encouraging our cadets to become strong leaders. We appreciate the opportunities of service that we can participate in on base. And for the bigger picture-for choosing to serve in our military-providing safety and security for our country, for your dedication, we all want to say "Thank You". What is the CAP program Through Civil Air Patrol's Cadet Program, young people develop leadership skills, investigate the fundamentals of aerospace science, acquire the habit of exercising regularly, solidify their character and participate in exciting hands-on activities that prepare them to become responsible citizens. Youth between the ages of 12-18 may join the CAP Cadet Program and remain in cadet status until they turn 21. Middle school students may join before turning 12, if their school participates in the CAP School Program. Civil Air Patrol develops leadership & character Local CAP cadets visit the USS Midway in San Diego during one of their educational trips. THE ORGANIZATION Nonprofit, 501(c)(3) corporation The auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force More than 56,000 members, including 22,000 cadets ages 12-21 Eight regions, 52 wings, 1,500 units Headquarters: Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., with 100 support staff World's largest fleet (530) of single-engine, piston aircraft Nation's most extensive communications network 1,000 emergency services vehicles AEROSPACE EDUCATION 100 aerospace education workshops each year Aerospace classroom materials, grades K through college Nation's premier annual aerospace education conference AE program touches more than 900 teachers per year CADET PROGRAMS Multi-step leadership training Cadet glider and powered orientation flights, flight training scholarships International Air Cadet Exchange program OPERATIONS Performs 90 percent of nation's inland search and rescue 75 lives on average saved per year Aerial reconnaissance for homeland security Disaster relief and damage assessment Transport for time-sensitive medical materials Counter-narcotic missions