Civil Air Patrol - Gallup, New Mexico
Parents Frequently Asked Questions
Membership
Q: How much does it cost to join CAP?
A: Annual membership dues vary by state. Current membership dues for New Mexico are $35/year for cadet members, $65/year for new senior members. For Cadets, this includes all books/study materials and a free Air Force "Blue" uniform (depending on funding from the Air Force). This fee does not include the cost of a BDU (camouflage uniform) as well as any incidental fees and expenses that may be occasionally required for activities and meals.
Q: What are the age requirements for joining CAP?
A: Youth aged 12-18 may join CAP as cadets and remain cadets until age 21. Of course, adults of any age are welcome to join CAP, too.
Q: Are cadets or adults obligated to join the military?
A: No, but many do. Cadets who earn the Billy Mitchell Award may enter the Air Force at an advanced grade (E-3) if they choose to enlist. The service academies and ROTC also look favorably on CAP experience. Approximately 10% of the USAF Academy cadet corps got their start in CAP. Many former CAP cadets have gone on to successful careers in all of the branches of the US military.
Q: What level of commitment is expected from cadets?
A: CAP expects cadets to participate actively, but of course CAP recognizes that cadets have school, family, and other obligations that take priority. Our squadron meets weekly for about 2 1/2 hours, and offer special activities on the weekends and during the summer. If your son or daughter is unable to attend a CAP activity, please have them let the commander or his desigate know in advance. Like any extra-curricular activity, cadets will get out of CAP only what they put into it.
Adult Supervision
Q: Who leads and supervises the cadets?
A: CAP takes its responsibility to safeguard youth very seriously. The adult volunteers who interact with cadets (known as CAP senior members) have been fingerprinted and screened by the FBI. Also, as part of their leadership training, advanced cadets lead and mentor new cadets under the guidance of senior members. For more information, see our cadet protection policy (.PDF, 44kb).
School
Q: Do cadets need to maintain a certain grade point average to participate in CAP?
A: Of course, school comes first so we encourage and teach good study habits. CAP expects cadets to maintain "satisfactory performance" at school, as defined by the cadet's parents. Because CAP emphasizes self-discipline, it's not uncommon for parents to see their son's or daughter's grades increase as a result of their participation in the Cadet Program.
Uniforms
Q: Why do cadets wear uniforms?
A: CAP uses uniforms to promote teamwork and develop self-discipline. The uniform motivates cadets to set high standards for themselves and to live their core values of integrity, volunteer service, excellence, and respect. Additionally, cadets practice military customs and courtesies as part of their leadership training.
Q: What uniforms do cadets wear?
A: The basic cadet uniform is the short-sleeve Air Force style blue uniform. However, most cadets prefer the optional BDU (camouflage) uniform and it is the BDU that we wear most often.
Q: How do cadets obtain uniforms?
A: New cadets are eligible to receive the Air Force style blue uniform at no cost to them through the Cadet Uniform Program, upon joining (depending on the availability of Air Force funding). Ask us for details. BDUs and other uniform items may be purchased through online vendors or the clothing sales store on military installations.
Q: How do cadets obtain uniform insignia?
A: Insignia is not free and we maintain a supply of common insignia in our squadron supply section and can supply members with their first set of insignia for a small fee to cover the cost.
Q: Where do the patches, insignia, etc. go on the uniform?
A: See the uniform mini-posters (.PDF, 3.7mb) included in your son's or daughter's member kit. The uniform regualtions change often so double check with us to ensure correct placement of patches and insignia.
Flying
Q: What's involved with cadet orientation flights?
A: Through orientation flights in powered aircraft and gliders, cadets experience flight first-hand. CAP's pilots are licensed by the FAA, follow a syllabus for each flight, and ensure the flight is conducted safely. Orientation flights are free to cadets and occur at various times in the Cadet Program. See the squadron commander for information about when the next opportunity to fly is scheduled.
Cadet Promotions
Q: How do cadets advance and earn promotions?
A: Cadets advance at their own pace through self-study and group study. To progress, cadets must (1) participate actively; (2) pass a written leadership test; (3) pass a written aerospace test; (4) pass a physical fitness test; (5) participate in character development forums; and most of all (6) demonstrate they have the maturity to accept increased responsibility. (In some stages of the Cadet Program, these requirements differ slightly.)
Q: How do I earn my first promotion?
A; Visit Stripes to Diamonds page on the National CAP website. It'll tell you exactly what you need to do to become a Cadet Airman. And if your New Cadet Kit hasn't arrived yet, you can download Chapter 1 of the leadership textbook.
Additional Questions & Concerns
Q: I have more questions about CAP. Where can I find answers?
A: CAP's National Website is a great source for more information about CAP programs. Of course, your son's or daughter's squadron commander or other Cadet leaders will also be glad to answer your or your child's questions.
