CAP

• Origins as a Civilian Force: The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was founded on December 1, 1941, just days before the attack on Pearl Harbor, to mobilize civilian aviation resources for national defense. • World War II Submarine Patrols: During WWII, CAP volunteers flew over 24 million miles of coastal patrols, spotting 173 German U-boats and attacking 57, with confirmed hits on at least two, helping protect U.S. shipping. • First "Civilian" Airmen to Sink a Submarine: CAP members are credited with the first confirmed sinking of a German U-boat by civilian aircraft in American history. • Congressional Gold Medal: In 2014, the CAP was collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for its WWII service, one of the highest civilian honors in the U.S. • Three-Part Mission: CAP’s missions are emergency services (including search and rescue), cadet programs (youth leadership and aerospace education), and aerospace education for both members and the public. • Official U.S. Air Force Auxiliary: Since 1948, CAP has been the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force, supporting a variety of missions including disaster relief and homeland security. • Largest Volunteer Search and Rescue Organization: CAP conducts about 90% of all inland search and rescue operations in the United States as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center. • Civilian and Cadet Members: CAP is unique for combining adult volunteers and a large youth cadet program (ages 12–21), with over 60,000 members nationwide. • Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Missions: CAP regularly assists in disaster relief, including aerial photography after hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires, and delivering supplies during emergencies. • Innovative Use of Technology: CAP has pioneered the use of small unmanned aerial systems (drones) and advanced imaging technology in support of search and rescue and disaster assessments.