Cadet FAQs
As a new member of our squadron you will have lots of questions about how things work and what happens next. Hopefully this page will help address some of these items for you.
Q . How long will I have to wait until I get my CAP ID card after joining?
A . Your ID card should arrive 2-3 weeks after your application is sent to National Headquarters at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama .
Q . When should I get my training binder and material?
A . This usually takes a bit longer than the ID card, perhaps up to 4 weeks.
Q . What uniform items do I need to order from CAP Mart to complete my BDU and Blues Uniforms?
A . Click HERE to get a list with part numbers and prices.
Q . What kind of boots should I get?
A . Approved boot types for CAP are Paratrooper and Combat. Both have advantages and disadvantages but the most important thing to remember is that they must fit well.
Q . If I go to McChord Air Force Base to get BDU's how much will I generally pay?
A . A BDU Blouse costs between $26 and $29 depending on size. BDU pants are about the same. A Cover is under $5. The basic Combat Boot starts at $75 and can go as high as $150. Boots can generally be purchased for much less at a surplus store.
Q. I have more questions. Who can I call?
A . As a Cadet, your first and most important contact is your Cadet Flight Sergeant. He/She is your primary point-of-contact for all things CAP. If you are not clear on who this is, e-mail the Senior Cadet Flight Sergeant at the address listed below. If you are a Senior, speak with your Professional Development Officer or the Deputy Commander for Seniors.
CAP Motto: Semper Vigilans (always vigilant)
Cadet Oath
I pledge that I will 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.
Honor Code
"I will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those among us who do."
Every cadet should accept the Honor Code when entering the Civil Air Patrol. This Code is a way of life that will shape the way you treat other people and what you will accept from yourself and others everyday of your life. A code to give you guidance and courage to do the right thing can make you strong in situations that test what you believe. Alexander Hamilton said, "Those who stand for nothing fall for anything." Being Cadets in the Civil Air Patrol can have an affect on not only your own life, but also the lives of the people you come in contact with.
Your outlook on life may make a huge impact on a friend or neighbor. You are developing leadership skills that will be very important as you grow into adults and begin careers.
Take some time to study the Air Force Academy Honor Code. Read it again and again. Really give some thought to how you want to live your life. Are Honor, Integrity and Trustworthiness important words and concepts to you? Anyone can tell a lie, it takes guts and courage to tell the truth. Anyone can steal; it takes sacrifice and humility to pass up temptation. Anyone can cheat, but it takes hard work and determination to pass the test.
It can be very easy to “cover” for a friend that you really care for when they cheat, but a true friend will not allow that behavior from his friends. Trust is not developed in covering someone else’s bad behavior. Trust is earned. Minute-by-Minute, Day-by-Day it takes time and consistency. Who will you grow to be? Who will you lead?
Take the time to develop your own Honor Code.
Daniel A Whalen, 2nd Lt CAP