For Parents

How do we get started?

Come for a visit. All of our regular meetings are open to the public. 

Just joined? Start here.

What's expected of my child?

This is best expressed in the Cadet Oath:

I pledge to 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.

Additional information is in our Getting Started as a Cadet guide.

What's expected of me?

Getting your child to meetings and activities on time.

Ensuring your child has a proper uniform, and meets the grooming requirements.

Help your child complete required paperwork, including permission forms.

What will I need to buy?

(Please check out the Cadet Uniform Guide)

• One or more sets of ABU utility uniforms (through Vanguard or a local military surplus store)

• One set of dress blues (available through Vanguard — your cadet will receive a $100 voucher after they receive their first promotion)

• If your cadet wishes to participate in Emergency Services missions, they will need a 24-hour pack (and a 72-hour pack for longer missions)

A Great First Year

Here's what we'd like to see in your cadet's first year, to get them started strong:

• Attend weekly squadron meetings regularly

• Attend at least 1 Saturday activity per month

• Make their first promotion, the Curry Achievement, within 8 weeks of joining

• Attend a week-long summer encampment

• Earn the Wright Brothers Award within the first year

Cadet Protection

The Civil Air Patrol has implemented, and mandates, cadet protection training for all its members. In addition, all adult leaders have been fingerprinted and subjected to a background check.

Learn more about how CAP works to keep cadets safe at GoCivilAirPatrol.com