About this Unit
**Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Military History:**
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was founded on December 1, 1941, just days before the attack on Pearl Harbor, as a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Army Air Forces. During World War II, CAP pilots flew anti-submarine patrols, search and rescue missions, and courier flights along the American coastline, contributing to homeland security and saving countless lives. In 1948, CAP was designated as the official auxiliary of the newly formed United States Air Force, expanding its missions to include aerospace education and cadet training. Today, CAP continues its legacy as a volunteer organization, supporting emergency services, disaster relief, and youth development across the nation.
Historical Facts
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Missions: CAP regularly assists in disaster relief, including aerial photography after hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires, and delivering supplies during emergencies.
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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.
