Acronym

Dictionary of CAP terms, including acronyms, abbreviations, and unique terms used in CAP.

Additional Resources

DOD Dictionary: https://dacipad.whs.mil/images/Public/10-Reading_Room/03_Acronyms_Terms/DoD_Acronyms_Dictionary.pdf
FEMA Dictionary: https://training.fema.gov/hiedu/termdef.aspx
Volunteer University Lexicon: https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Lexicon_VolU_0B1AB7FB28B18.pdf

Acronym/Abbreviation/Term	Spelled Out	Definition
101 Card	Civil Air Patrol Form 101	Wallet-sized form that lists all Emergency Services qualifications and supervised trainee status
1AF	First Air Force	USAF Component of NORTHCOM to which CAP is operationally assigned
AAFES	Army and Air Force Exchange Service	On-base store where CAP members can purchase USAF-style uniforms
AAR	After Action Review	Formal review after an event or time period to document what was accomplished, what went well, and what could be improved.
ABL	Adventure Based Learning	Learning by doing challenging, hands-on activities
ABU	Airmen's Battle Dress Uniform	USAF-style uniform authorized for CAP wear
ACC	Air Combat Command	USAF Command to which CAP-USAF is assigned
ACE	Aerospace Connections in Education	A fun, interactive aerospace/STEM program for CAP educator members who teach grades K-6. Designed to engage and inspire early-aged youth toward an interest in aviation, space, and other STEM-related careers.
ACSC	Air Command and Staff College	Air Force officer Intermediate Developmental Education course for majors and major-selects
ADIS	Advanced Digital Imagery System	Photography mission type
AE	Aerospace Education
AEM	Aerospace Education Member	Membership category for teachers and other educators to have access to K-12 aerospace education materials to bring into their classroom or education setting. Available to both formal (teachers) and informal (e.g. youth program leaders) educators.
AEO	Aerospace Education Officer	Member who leads/manages the AE program
AERONet	Airborne Extensible Relay Over-Horizon Network	Tactical network that provides live, shared situational awareness.
AEX	Aerospace Education Excellence Program
AFAM	Air Force Assigned Mission
AFJROTC	Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps	A citizenship program in high schools supported by the USAF designed to build better citizens, strength, strengthen character and acquaint cadets with the aerospace age and careers in the military and civilian aviation. Civil Air Patrol can provide orientation flights to AFJROTC cadets.
AFMCSS	Air Force Military Clothing Sales Store	On-base store where CAP members can purchase USAF-style uniforms
AFRCC	Air Force Rescue Coordination Center	Air Force center that manages assignment of Air Force search and rescue in the United States
AFROTC	Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps	A three- to five-year program that trains a full-time civilian college student to become a leader and officer in the United States Air Force (USAF) or United States Space Force (USSF). Upon graduation from school and upon completing the AFROTC training program and selection process, the cadet will commission as an officer in the USAF or USSF. Civil Air Patrol can provide orientation flights to AFROTC cadets.
AGH	Aircraft Ground Handling	Course that teaches safe ground movement of aircraft
ALE	Automatic Link Establishment	Feature of an HF radio that allows the radio to automatically connect with another HF radio using a unique identifier
AMF	Aircraft Maintenance Facility
AMO	Aircraft Maintenance Officer
AMRAD	Aircraft Maintenance Repair And Documentation	System that provides real-time visibility of aircraft status, open and closed discrepancies, maintenance & inspection data, maintenance and repair requests, parts order status and parts tracking
AOBD	Air Operations Branch Director
AOR	Area of Responsibility
AP	Airborne Photographer
AQT	Annual Qualification Training	Training mission for Emergency Services often used in WMIRS for managing mission, exercise, and training operations
ATP	Annual Training Plan	Plan developed by each wing for a fiscal year (FY) that identifies the commander's vision, goals, and training goals for ES and air ops. It includes the budget request for SUIs, Operations, and Emergency Services, including SUI travel, flight evaluations, orientation flights (Cadet, JROTC, ROTC), proficiency flying, and training events.
AUDL	Air University Distance Learning	An Air Force organization through which professional military education courses can be completed. Notable among the offerings which are available to eligible Civil Air Patrol members are: Air War College, Air Command and Staff College, Squadron Officer School, Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, and Noncommissioned Officer Academy. See CAP Regulation 40-1 paragraph 11.1
AWC	Air War College	Air Force officer Senior Developmental Education course for lieutenant colonels and Lt Col-selects
Axis		Learning system in eServices that offers training courses
BDU	Battle Dress Uniform	Old USAF-style uniform previously authorized for CAP wear. Phased out in 2021.
Bivouac		Military camping typically with training activities. Usually a temporary encampment under little or no shelter. (pronounced BIV-wack)
BLUF	Bottom Line Up Front	Brief (1-2 sentence) summary of a long or complex communication
BoG	Board of Governors	Governing body of CAP that governs, directs, and manages the affairs of the Corporation
BZ	Bravo Zulu	Navy term for "job well done"
C/CC	Cadet Commander
C/CCF	Cadet First Sergeant
C/DCO	Cadet Deputy Commander for Operations
C/DCS	Cadet Deputy Commander for Support
CAC	Cadet Advisory Council	Provides a forum where cadets gain leadership experience at higher organizational levels, aid the commander in monitoring and implementing the Cadet Program, and make recommendations to the commander for improving and running the Cadet Program.
CAP	Civil Air Patrol	USAF Auxiliary
CAPF	Civil Air Patrol Form
CAPID	Civil Air Patrol Identification (number)	Unique number to identify each member
CAPM	Civil Air Patrol Manual	Publication type
CAPP	Civil Air Patrol Pamphlet	Written guidance published by National Headquarters or subordinate units
CAPR	Civil Air Patrol Regulation	Written directive on policy published by National Headquarters
CAPS	Civil Air Patrol Standard	Publication that outlines standards of accomplishing tasks, such as aircraft operations
CAPSIS	Civil Air Patrol Safety Information System
CAPWATCH		eServices database
CAP-USAF	Civil Air Patrol - United States Air Force	USAF personnel assigned by 1AF to oversee the operations of the Auxiliary and monitor the spending of appropriated funds.
CC	Commander	Office Symbol
CCC	Command Chief or Command NCO or NCO Advisor	Office Symbol. Command Chief at NHQ, Command NCO at region/wing, and NCO Advisor at groups and below.
CCE	Executive Officer	Air Force office symbol for executive officer, sometimes used in CAP. Administrative support for the unit commander.
CCF	First Sergeant	Office Symbol (Cadet or Composite Squadrons Only)
CCMSOP	Chaplain Corps Mission Support Operational Procedures	Documented procedures for Chaplain Corps mission support activities
CCRSC	Chaplain Corps Region Staff College	A training opportunity offered for CAP Chaplain Corps personnel.
CD	Deputy Commander	Office Symbol
CD	Counterdrug
CDC	Deputy Commander for Cadets	Office Symbol
CDI	Character Development Instructor	Senior Member who teaches character development classes for cadets
CDI	Commander-Directed Investigation	No longer authorized. The IG now performs this action for wing and region commanders.
CDS	Deputy Commander for Seniors	Office Symbol
CEAP	Cadet Encampment Assistance Program	Financial aid to assist cadets with attending encampment. Can include registration fees and uniforms.
CEMS	Communications Equipment Maintenance System	eServices database to request communications equipment maintenance and repair
CEO	Chief Executive Officer	The National Commander serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Corporation, and is responsible for overall control of the organization. Serves as a CAP Corporate Officer.
CERT	Community Emergency Response Team	Emergency services qualification
CFC	Combined Federal Campaign	Annual donation campaign for Federal employees and members of the military. CAP units can sign up to be a receiving charity by following the instructions on the national website under Field Fundraising.
CFDU	Corporate Flight Duty Uniform	Blue flight suit
CFI	Certified Flight Instructor	FAA certification for pilots qualified to provide flight instruction.
CFO	Chief Financial Officer	NHQ employee responsible for financial management. Serves as Treasurer of the Corporation, financial advisor, and Chair of the National Finance Committee. Appointed as a CAP Corporate Officer.
CFU	Corporate Field Uniform	Blue utility uniform
ChESS	Chaplain Corps Emergency Service School	Emergency services training school at NESA for all Chaplain Corps personnel
CI	Compliance Inspection	National Headquarters inspection of region and wing headquarters
CISM	Critical Incident Stress Management	Emergency services qualification
CIQ	Commander's Inquiry	Process where a wing or higher commander can initiate an inquiry through the IG into issues within their command. CIQs follow the complaint resolution process in CAPR 20-2. Replaced the commander's directed investigation.
CLC	Corporate Learning Course	Advanced Course for Senior Members to learn about CAP organization above the squadron. Replaced by the Level IV course.
CMSAF	Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force	Senior enlisted advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force and Secretary of the Air Force. Highest ranking enlisted position in the Air Force.
COI	Certificate of Insurance
CONUS	Continental United States	48 states, not including Alaska and Hawaii
COO	Chief Operating Officer	Full-time employee at NHQ who administers the day‐to‐day activities of CAP. A CAP Corporate Officer.
COP	Certificate of Proficiency	Recognition for cadets who completed the cadet program prior to the current system
COP	Common Operating Picture	"A single identical display of relevant information shared by more than one command that facilitates collaborative planning and assists all echelons to achieve situational awareness." (DOD Dictionary)
COV	Corporate Owned Vehicle	Vehicles owned by CAP
CP	Cadet Programs	Office Symbol
CPP	Cadet Protection Program
CPPT	Cadet Protection Program Training
CS	Chief of Staff	Office Symbol (Wing/Region)
CSA	Cadet Special Activity	Wing- or region-hosted cadet activity that is accredited by national headquarters. A CSA must have at least two years of operations, at least 25 hours of curriculum, and be open to cadets across CAP. Participants who complete the program earn the CSA ribbon.
CSAF	Chief of Staff of the Air Force	Senior uniformed Air Force officer responsible for the organization, training and equipping of active-duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces serving in the U.S. and overseas
CSAG	CAP Senior Advisory Group	Advisory body to the National Commander, consisting of the National Commander, National Vice Commander, National Executive Officer, 8 Region Commanders, Chief Operating Officer*, Commander, CAP‐USAF*, and Advisors as the National Commander may appoint* (*Ex‐officio, nonvoting members)
CSS	Chaplain Support Specialist	Emergency Services training program for Character Development Instructors
CSS-CS	Chaplain Support Specialist — CAP Support	The primary CSS designation for all CDI appointed personnel who meet the prerequisites to qualify to begin ES training. Prepares the individual to support all CAP duty, training, and mission activity as a part of a Chaplain Support Team. This rating is the basic prerequisite for the Disaster Support Rating.
CSS-DS	Chaplain Support Specialist — Disaster Support	The advanced designation for those individuals who desire to go on to do more advanced ES training that will prepare them to support all “real world” DR/SAR/Natural Disaster/Mass Casualty Missions that CAP could be called on to respond to and support as a part of the Chaplain Support Team.
CST	Chaplain Support Team	Trained Chaplain Corps personnel from both Mission Chaplain (MC) and Chaplain Support Specialists (MC) form the Chaplain Support Team (CST). The CST will consist of one MC and one CSS at the CAP support level and two MCs and one CSS at the Disaster Support level.
CTW	Cadre Training Weekend	Staff training for encampment
CUB	Commander's Update Briefing	Typically a staff update to their commander on current activities
CUI	Controlled Unclassified Information	Information that, while not classified, still requires some level of protection from unauthorized access and release. Protection may be required for privacy, sensitive mission information, or other reasons. Replaced FOUO.
CV	Vice Commander	Office Symbol
CWU	Corporate Working Uniform	a.k.a. polo uniform, authorized for senior members only
D2R	Dare to Reimagine	Member application development sandbox consisting of a cloud environment where members can innovate IT solutions for their Units, Wings or Regions.
DA	Administration	Office Symbol
DAART	Domestic Awareness Assessment and Response Tool
DC	Communications (Director)	Office Symbol
DCP	Director of Cadet Programs	Office Symbol for wing-level staff position responsible for cadet program management
DCS	Deputy Commander for Support	Region-level staff position that may oversee a specific element of the staff (e.g. DCS Logistics, DCS Aerospace)
DDR	Drug Demand Reduction	Program to reduce drug abuse
DEV	Director of Development	Office Symbol for wing/region position responsible for enhancing fundraising efforts at the region, wing, and unit level
DF	Direction Finder	Equipment capable of receiving and tracking aviation, marine, and personal distress beacons on 121.5 MHz, 243 MHz, and 406 MHz frequencies
DIV	Diversity Officer	Office Symbol
DLO	Desired Learning Outcomes	In a lesson plan, describes the knowledge, skills, or attitudes that students should be able to demonstrate after the lesson
DO	Operations	Office Symbol
DOC	Counterdrug	Office Symbol
DoD	Department of Defense
DOH	Homeland Security	Office Symbol
DOK	Director of Communications	Office Symbol. NHQ only
DOS	Emergency Services	Office Symbol
DOT	Operations Training	Office Symbol
DOU	Unmanned Aerial Systems	Office Symbol
DOV	Standardization & Evaluation	Office Symbol
DP	Personnel	Office Symbol
DR	Disaster Relief	Office Symbol. Also category of mission providing post-disaster services.
DREX	Disaster Relief Exercise	Practice Disaster Relief mission
DSCA	Defense Support of Civil Authorities	Authority used by DoD Components to support civil authorities to save lives, mitigate suffering, minimize serious property damage, and protect vital infrastructure during a disaster.
E108	Electronic CAPF108	Request for reimbursement of mission expenses filed in WMIRS
E&T	Education and Training	Senior Member training program. Replaced Professional Development. Also known as ET
ELPER		Direction finding equipment used in finding ELTs transmitting on 121.5 or 243 MHz frequency. Correct name is "L-Per" or "Little L-Per" by manufacturer, L-Tronics.
ELT	Emergency Locator Transmitter	Aircraft beacon that triggers in a crash to help search teams locate the aircraft
EPIRB	Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon	Emergency transmitter beacon carried by marine vehicles (e.g. boats) that sends off a signal in case of emergency
EPLO	Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer	Reserve officers who coordinate DoD resources during an emergency response
EPS	Encampment Preparatory School	A weekend preparatory version of Encampment
ET	Education and Training	Office Symbol. Also the Senior Member training program. Replaced Professional Development. Also known as E&T
EXPLAN	Exercise Plan	The overall plan for the exercise
F&P	Familiarization and Preparatory Training	The initial classroom training for an emergency services qualification. Once a member completes prerequisites, F&P, and receives commander's approval they are classified as a Trainee on their 101 card. Trainees may participate in training and real world emergency services missions under a qualified supervisor
FAA	Federal Aviation Administration
FASC	Finance Admin Section Chief
FDU	Flight Duty Uniform	a.k.a. flight suit
FECA	Federal Employees Compensation Act	Workmen’s compensation program for federal workers. FECA is applicable to CAP seniors and cadets 18 and older while serving on Air Force-assigned missions, including travel to and from. (See CAPR 900-5)
FEMA	Federal Emergency Management Agency
FLIR	Forward-Looking Infrared	Thermal imaging system used by some CAP wings (NDWG, WYWG) for DSCA/SAR
FLM	Flightline Marshaller
FLS	Flightline Supervisor
FM	Finance Officer	Office Symbol
FMA	Wing Financial Analyst	May also be referred to as WFA (pronounced "wiffa")
FMC	Fully Mission Capable	Condition of any piece of equipment, aircraft, or training device where it can perform all of its missions.
FOC	Full Operational Capability	Referring to the status of a new program when it is able to be fully employed to meet an operational need
Form 5	Civil Air Patrol Form #5	Form used by CAP to approve pilot qualifications to fly CAP aircraft
FOUO	For Official Use Only	Information or material which, although unclassified, may not be appropriate for public release. Replaced by CUI
FRO	Flight Release Officer
FSX	Full-scale Exercise	Exercise that involves all field forces as well as mission management
FTCA	Federal Tort Claims Act	Liability protection that applies to CAP and its members while performing "Air Force-assigned missions" (see CAPR 900-5)
FTL	Field Team Leader	State qualification similar to Ground Team Leader
FTM	Field Team Member	State qualification similar to Ground Team Member
FTX	Field Training Exercise	Exercise that involves field forces
GBD	Ground Branch Director
GC	General Counsel	Office Symbol (NHQ Only). Legal counsel for CAP. Also a CAP Corporate Officer.
GCC	Group Commander Certificate	Group Commander Certificate training
GES	General Emergency Services	Initial training/exam for members starting emergency services training. Required for any ES participation.
GIIEP	Geospatial Information Interoperability Exploitation Portable
GIS	Geographic Information System	Data management system that organizes information across geography, typically laid out in a map composed of layers on information
GLR	Great Lakes Region
GR	Government Relations Advisor	Office Symbol. Also may be called GRA. (Wing and region)
Grade		A step or degree, in a graduated scale of office or military rank (e.g., TSgt, 2d Lt). Definition derived from 10 USC §101
GREEN FLAG	Mission Code Phrase	Special CAP mission using specially equipped aircraft to train military sensor operators
GSA	General Services Administration	Federal agency that sets reimbursement rates for lodging and per diem (food)
GSDA	Geospatial Damage Assessments	Geospatial Damage Assessments are the process of using geographic data, imagery, and spatial analysis techniques to evaluate the extent, severity, and impact of damage caused by natural or human-induced disasters. This assessment integrates geospatial technology, such as remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and drone or satellite imagery, to provide accurate, timely, and spatially-referenced information about affected areas.
GSAR (College)	Ground Search and Rescue College	VDEM course for Field Team Member (Ground Team Member) qualification
GTL	Ground Team Leader	ES qualification to lead a team to perform field search and rescue
GTM	Ground Team Member	ES qualification to perform field search and rescue. Includes levels 1-3, with 1 being the most advanced qualifications
GVR	Government Relations	Office Symbol. NHQ only
HABC	High Altitude Balloon Challenge	Annual aerospace education competition started in 2021 where cadet teams design a science experiment to study the effects of high altitude on materials. The experiments are launched to a high altitude then recovered and cadets test their hypothesis against a control sample.
HADR	Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
HC	Chaplain	Office Symbol
HF	High Frequency	Radio operating in a range of 3 to 30 megahertz. CAP's HF radio network allows for communications across long distances
HGA	Honor Guard Academy	Region-level training for Honor Guard members. Usually classified as an NCSA.
HHQ	Higher Headquarters	Management level above the referenced level, e.g. wing referring to region or national
HLS	Homeland Security	CAP non-combat mission to support defense of the United States
HO	Historian	Office Symbol
HQ	Headquarters	Management level in CAP above the squadron/chartered flight, e.g. Group, Wing, Region, National
HR	Human Relations	Office Symbol. NHQ employee management
HS	Health Services	Office Symbol
HSO	Health Services Officer	Person assigned to a Health Services position and/or providing health services at an activity
HUBCAP		CAP's innovation hub where members can share tools and resources they create
IACE	International Air Cadet Exchange
IC	Incident Commander	Lead individual in the Incident Command System. Qualification levels include IC1 (highest/major complex incidents) to IC3.
ICP	Incident Command Post
ICS	Incident Command System	Standard federal system for organization and operations for incident response. Scalable to size of the incident.
ICUT	Introductory Communications User Training	Initial training to be able to operate CAP radios without supervision
IEP	Individualized Education Program	Document prepared by schools, in conjunction with a student and their parents, to identify accommodations tailored to the student. If made available, can be a useful tool to help identify accommodations in CAP.
IFR	Instrument Flight Rules
IG	Inspector General	Office Symbol (wing and higher)
IGC	Inspector General College	A national college for CAP Inspectors General and Inspector General staff members ; region, wing, or group commanders; or legal officers
IMSAFE	I. aM. S.A.F.E. Checklist	Aircrew acronym to check common risks to determine an individual's readiness to fly. I – Illness, M – Medication, S – Stress, A – Alcohol, F – Fatigue, E – Emotion
IMSAFE2	I. aM. S.A.F.E. 2 Checklist	Driver's acronym to check common risks to determine an individual's readiness to drive. I – Illness, M – Medication, S – Stress, A – Alcohol, F – Fatigue, E – Emotion, 2 – Drivers (for trips more than 10 driving hours) (CAPR 77-1, ICL 22-02)
IOC	Initial Operational Capability	Referring to the status of a new program when it is able to be minimally employed in an operational environment but not yet at full capability
IPP	Initial Planning Point	Point selected to begin planning for a search
ISR	Intra-Squad Radio	Communications - A small ICOM radio that uses military frequencies that looks and behaves like the small Family Radio Service (FRS) radios that are available to the public.
IST	Introduction Safety Training	Safety
IT	Information Technology	Office Symbol. Also used to refer to technology or technology-based solutions.
JA	Legal Officer	Office Symbol (wing and higher)
KPI	Key Performance Indicator	Measurable criterion of progress toward an intended result
L-Per		Direction finding equipment used in finding ELTs transmitting on 121.5 or 243 MHz frequencies. May be spelled ELPER. Also known as "Little L-Per" by manufacturer, L-Tronics.
LBE	Load-bearing Equipment	Shoulder harness or similar gear for carrying equipment, packs, etc. Often used by the military.
LEAP	Leadership Exploration Advancement Program	Program that provides opportunities for experienced cadets (Phase IV) to learn about higher headquarters functions through an immersive experience augmenting the staff
LG	Logistics	Office Symbol
LGM	Aircraft Maintenance Officer	Office Symbol
LGS	Supply Officer	Office Symbol
LGT	Transportation Officer	Office Symbol
LKP	Last Known Position	Point where target was last known to be, including use of clues not just last seen
LMR	Land Mobile Radio
LNO	Liaison Officer	Alternate abbreviation for LO
LO	Liaison Officer	ES qualification to represent CAP with partner agencies during a response to improve coordination between CAP and that agency
LPB	Lost Person Behavior	Behavior patterns of lost persons based on research and historical data
LRC	Leadership Reaction Course	Team-based confidence course, often found on military installations
LSC	Logistics Section Chief
MALR	Mid-Atlantic Liaison Region	The CAP-USAF component aligned with MAR
MAR	Mid-Atlantic Region	CAP region that includes Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington DC, Virginia, and West Virginia
MARP	Membership Action Review Panel	Final CAP appeal option for members after an adverse action (e.g. membership termination, demotion, suspension over 60 days)
MC	Mission Chaplain	Emergency Services training program for CAP Chaplains
MCAF	Mission Chaplain (USAF Support Rated)
MC-CS	Mission Chaplain — CAP Support	The primary MC designation for all Chaplain appointed personnel who meet the prerequisites to qualify to begin ES training. This rating prepares the individual to support all CAP duty, training, and mission activity as a part of a Chaplain Support Team. This rating is mandatory for all Chaplain Corps personnel and also serves as the basic prerequisite for the Advanced Level ES Ratings.
MC-DS	Mission Chaplain —Disaster Support	Advanced rating for individuals who desire to do more advanced ES training that will prepare them to support all “real world” DR/SAR/Natural Disaster/Mass Casualty Missions CAP could be called to respond to. Chaplains with the DS rating will respond as part of a Chaplain Support Team.
MER	Middle East Region	Former name of the Mid-Atlantic Region, changed in 2018
MFC	Mountain Flying Certification
MIPR	Military Interdepartmental Purchase Request	Method for Department of Defense (DoD) entities to execute funding transactions with available budget authority. MIPRs are used by DoD entities when they have requirements for materials, supplies, or services through Other Government Agencies (including DoD agencies and other non-DoD agencies).
MO	Mission Observer
MOA	Memorandum of Agreement	Formal agreement between two organizations that does not involve financial obligation
MOU	Memorandum of Understanding	Formal agreement between two organizations that includes a financial obligation
MP	Mission Pilot	Minimum VFR pilot with additional training and endorsements to fly search and rescue missions. Training includes how to fly different search patterns.
MRO	Mission Radio Operator
MS	Mission Scanner
MSA	Mission Staff Assistant
MSO	Mission Safety Officer
MTT	Mobile Training Team
Mx	Maintenance
NBB	National Blue Beret	A National Cadet Special Activity (NCSA) that teaches emergency services skills through support of the EAA Airventure at Oshkosh, WI.
NCAC	National Cadet Advisory Council	A national-level council consisting of representatives from each region, plus council officers. Provides feedback on the cadet program and recommends change at the national level.
NCO	Noncommissioned Officer
NCOA	Noncommissioned Officer Academy	Focused training course for staff sergeant through chief master sergeant
NCSA	National Cadet Special Activity	Cadet activities approved by national headquarters to provide advanced experiences in leadership, teamwork, and career exploration. Cadets must complete an encampment prior to attending.
NCR	North Central Region
NER	Northeast Region
NESA	National Emergency Services Academy
NFA	National Flight Academy	CAP-hosted activity to teach flying skills to cadets. Typically 7-9 days long. Some cadets earn their solo endorsement during the activity.
NGO	Non-Governmental Organization	Private organizations such as churches and non-profit service groups that provide support to the community especially in disaster response
NHQ	National Headquarters
NIMS	National Incident Management System	System used by all levels of government, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector to work together to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from incidents.
NLD	National Legislative Day
NLOC	National Legal Officer College	A national college for CAP Legal Officers
NMC	Not Mission Capable	Condition of any piece of equipment, aircraft, or training device where it can perform none of its missions. Commonly used to identify aircraft that are grounded.
NOC	National Operations Center	CAP's emergency operations center that authorizes CAP missions
NORTHCOM	Northern Command	Provides command and control of DoD homeland defense and defense support of civil authorities for USA
NRAT	National Radar Analysis Team	Specialized team that reviews aircraft tracking data to determine clues to locate missing aircraft.
NRCC	National Response Coordination Center	FEMA response center to integrate Federal and Non-Governmental Organization response to disasters
NRF	National Response Framework	Plan that establishes a comprehensive, national, all-hazards approach to domestic incident response. It presents the guiding principles that enable all response partners to prepare for and provide a unified national response to disasters and emergencies – from the smallest incident to the largest catastrophe
NSC	National Staff College	This college is no longer offered. Resident course for Senior Members teaching executive leadership and organization. The individual classes have been incorporated in the modules of the Senior Member Education and Training Program. Level 5 professional level modules replaced the course.
NSOC	National Safety Officer College	A national college for CAP Safety Officers
NUC	National Uniform Committee	Provides counsel to CAP/CC as requested on proposed amendments to CAP’s uniform policies.
OBC	Officer Basic Course	Fundamentals of officership and leadership for senior members. An online course previously required for completion of Level II in the legacy Professional Development Program. This course is no longer offered
OCR	Office of Coordinating Responsibility	Office who is assisting on a project/task. See OPR.
OI	Operating Instruction	Directive publication that mandates procedures or actions of a local nature within one unit (charter number)
OKR	Objectives and Key Results	A goal-setting framework for CAP to define and track our goals
OPCON	Operational Control
OPEX	Operational Exercise	Exercise that is geared to test specific function or skill set or group
OPR	Office of Primary Responsibility	Office that has the lead on a project/task and is responsible for the outcome
Ops Eval	Operations Evaluation	AF inspection of each wing’s operations (emergency services) capability. Occurs every 2 years
Ops Quals	Operations Qualifications	Module in eServices to track Emergency Services and flight qualifications
ORM	Operational Risk Management	Now called RM-Risk Management
ORMS	Operational Resource Management System	CAP database to track equipment, vehicles, and aircraft
OSC	Operations Section Chief
PA	Public Affairs (Officer)	Office Symbol
PCR	Pacific Region
PD	Professional Development	Office Symbol. Previous name for senior member education and training program. Now ET or E&T
PESTLE	Political, Environmental, Social, Technological, Legal, Economic	Main categories considered when evaluating opportunities and threats during CAP's strategic planning process
PII	Personally Identifiable Information	CAP confidential information about an individual that can be used to distinguish or trace that individual’s identity. See CAPR 1-2(I) for details.
PIO	Public Information Officer
PLB	Personal Locator Beacon	Emergency beacon used by individuals to send a distress signal in an emergency when away from normal emergency services (e.g. when hiking in the mountains)
PLS	Point Last Seen	Point where target was actually seen
PMC	Partially Mission Capable	Condition of any piece of equipment, aircraft, or training device where it can perform some, but not all, of its missions.
PME	Professional Military Education
POA	Plan of Action
POA	Probability of Area	Probability that a search target is in a specified area
POC	Point of Contact	Person to contact for additional information
POD	Probability of Detection	Probability that a search target will be found if it is in the search area
PODC	Point of Distribution Course
PODS	Point of Distribution System	Location during disaster response where residents can pick up food water and supplies
PODS	Points of Dispensing	Location during disaster response where residents can pick up medications
POS	Probability of Success	Probability based on combination of POD and POA
POV	Personally Owned Vehicles	Vehicles owned by members
PPC	Private Pilot Certificate	Term used for FAA certification for individuals allowed to pilot light aircraft.
PPE	Personal Protective Equipment	Items for individual use to provide safety protection, such as reflective vests, work gloves, and climbing helmets
PSC	Planning Section Chief
Rank		Order of precedence among members. Definition derived from 10 USC §101
RCAC	Region Cadet Advisory Council	Region-level advisory council consisting of cadet representatives from each wing in the region, plus officers, to provide input on the cadet program and recommend changes.
RCC	Region Cadet Competition	A competition held in each region where cadets compete in a cross-section of the cadet program, including drill, color guard, fitness, and knowledge.
RCC	Region Commander Certificate	Region Commander Certificate training
RCLS	Region Cadet Leadership School
ReadyOp	Ready Op	A secure web-based platform to support planning, response, command and communications for single agencies and unified commands. Allows users to be a part of a mission by giving the ability to participate from a computer or a smart phone.
REDCAP	A real world CAP mission	May be any real mission (not exercise) assigned by AFRCC or the NOC
RM	Risk Management	Formerly called Operational Risk Management
RMR	Rocky Mountain Region
RON	Remain Overnight	Module in WMIRS for approval to fund lodging and per diem (food) during a mission
ROW	Rest of the World	Area outside search area
RPA	Remotely Piloted Aircraft	Aircraft controlled from a distance/pilot not on board. Also known as UAS
RPP	Rated Preparatory Program	An AF program that provides qualified active Airmen interested in cross-training to an Air Force rated career field an opportunity to gain and strengthen basic aviation skills. Civil Air Patrol volunteer flight instructors provide air and ground instruction to introduce students to aviation fundamentals.
RSC	Region Staff College	An in-residence course previously required for completion of Level IV in the legacy Professional Development Program. This college is no longer offered. The individual classes have been incorporated in the modules of the Senior Member Education and Training Program.
SAR	Search and Rescue
SAR	Suspicious Activity Reporting	Used by DHS and law enforcement
SAREX	Search and Rescue Exercise	Practice search and rescue mission
SAV	Staff Assistance Visit	Visit by higher headquarters staff to review programs and provide advice. Not an inspection.
SCC	Squadron Commander Certificate	Squadron Commander Certificate training offered as electives for those in a Level 3 online cohort. Members who completed the Unit Commanders Course (UCC) do not need to take the SCC modules
SDA Guide	Staff Duty Analysis Guide	Leadership development for cadet officers. CAPP 60-32
SE	Safety	Office Symbol
SECAF	Secretary of the Air Force
SER	Southeast Region
SET	Skills Evaluator Training	Standard guidance and education for personnel that will conduct and certify emergency services training. (see ES SET Website)
SFGC	Shelter Field Guide Course	Shelter management course for disaster relief operations
SFRO	Senior Flight Release Officer
SIRS	Safety Information Reporting System	Now called CAPSIS
SL	Service Learning	Learning by leading and participating in projects/activities
SLS	Squadron Leadership Course	Previous course for Senior Members about how a squadron operates. Replaced by Level 2 modules in Volunteer University
SMART	Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound	A framework for setting goals to establish clear, attainable goals that includes accountability to a deadline
SMC/BISC	AFRCC SAR Management Course
SNCO	Senior Noncommissioned Officer	Grades of master sergeant, senior master sergeant, and chief master sergeant
SOD	Squadron of Distinction	Annual award given by regions to the top cadet unit in the region
SOM	Squadron of Merit	Annual award given by wings to the top cadet unit in the wing
SOP	Standard Operating Procedures	Documented method of operations for a specific activity or function
SOS	Squadron Officers School	An Air Force Professional Military Education School for lieutenants and captains, completion of which earns equivalency credit for some modules in the Senior Member Education and Training Program
SPC	National Inland SAR Planning Course
SQTR	Specialty Qualification Training Record	Form to track Emergency Services qualifications
SRPA	Surrogate Remotely-Piloted Aircraft	a.k.a. "Green Flag"
SSG	Strategic Steering Group	A Board of Governors chartered group of leaders, stakeholders, internal and external subject matter experts, and industry representatives tasked with making recommendations to the Board for strategic direction, objectives, and metrics.
SSO	Safety Significant Occurrences	CAPR 160-2 attachment 2 #19
STEM	Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
SUI	Subordinate Unit Inspection	Wing inspection program for units below wing level (groups/squadrons) conducted every 24 months
sUAS	Small Unmanned Aircraft System	Small "drone" aircraft
SWOT	Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats	The SWOT analysis is a common tool used in strategic planning. CAP’s SWOT is reviewed annually and revised to reflect our current state to embrace opportunities and improve to become more capable and agile. SWOT also helps us to manage threats (or risks). Strengths and Weaknesses are internal to CAP. Opportunities and Threats are external forces.
TAC	Training, Advising, and Counselling (Officer)	Previous term used for Training Officer
TAG	The Adjutant General	Highest Commander in a State’s National Guard. In charge of Air and Army Guard. Selected by and reports to the governor
TLC	Training Leaders of Cadets	Course for Senior Members to learn about the cadet program. Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced courses are available
TLP	Team Leadership Project (or Problem)	Team activity to see how people work in the dynamics of a group
TMP	Transport Mission Pilot
TO	Testing Officer	Duty Position
TO	Training Officer	Current term used at encampments for the senior members who provide an adult presence with a flight and mentor cadre and students (Formerly called TAC Officer)
TOA	Table of Allowances	Official list of authorized equipment and quantities published by NHQ (e.g. vehicles, radios)
TOP Flight	Teacher Orientation Program Flight	Familiarization flight in a CAP aircraft for AE Members to experience flight.
TOP Cadet	Take-off Program	Needs-based program supporting cadets at week-long powered and glider flight academies, possibly leading at a solo flight.
TRUST Certificate	The Recreational UAS Safety Test	An aeronautical knowledge and safety test required by law for all UAS recreational flyers
TSA	The Spaatz Association	Organization of individuals who earned CAP's General Carl A. Spaatz Award or Certificate of Proficiency. Separate organization from CAP
TTX	Table-top Exercise	Exercise that is restricted to management functions with field teams simulated in order to focus on management skills and processes
TUV	Temporary Use Vehicles	Vehicles rented or borrowed by CAP
UAO	Unit Alert Officer
UAS	Unmanned Aircraft System	Aircraft of any size that is remotely piloted
UASMP	sUAS Mission Pilot
UAST	sUAS Technician
UCC	Unit Commanders Course	Previous course for Senior Members to learn about being a unit commander. Replaced by the Squadron Commander Certificate (SCC), Group Commander Certificate (GCC), and Region Commander Certificate (RCC)
UDF	Urban Direction Finding	Mission to locate Emergency Locator Transmitters (emergency beacons)
USAF	United States Air Force
USAFR	United States Air Force Reserve	Federal reserve component of the USAF. Some Reservists are assigned to CAP-USAF to augment the oversite and support provided to CAP (e.g. Operations Evaluations, encampment advisors/support)
USC	United States Code	Also known as Federal law. 10 USC Chapter 909 (§9441-9448) and 36 USC Chapter 403 (§40301-40307) govern CAP.
v/r	very respectfully	Used as a closing statement before a signature block
VAWG	Virginia Wing	Wing naming convention is 2-letter postal abbreviation (or DC for NATCAP) plus "WG"
VDEM	Virginia Department of Emergency Management	Virginia state agency responsible for search and rescue, state support in disasters, etc.
VDOA	Virginia Department of Aviation	Virginia state agency
VFR	Visual Flight Rules
VHF	Very High Frequency	Radio operating in a range of 30 to 300 megahertz. VHF radios are the most commonly used in CAP, used fixed stations, vehicles, aircraft, and handheld radios in support of all CAP missions, including Emergency Services, Aerospace Education and the CAP Cadet Program. Civil Air Patrol operates primarily on frequencies assigned by the United States Air Force.
VIR	Virtual In-Residence	Online live courses in the Senior Member Education and Training Program taught by Volunteer University
VOAD	Volunteer Organizations Assisting in Disasters	Primarily a church oriented group that assists in disaster response.
VOLU	Volunteer University	The organization that offers the modules necessary to advance in the Senior Member Education and Training Program
VTTX	Virtual Tabletop Exercise	Online version of a Tabletop Exercise to provide training to incident management personnel.
WA	Wing Administrator	Office Symbol
WAA	Wreaths Across America	Service project and fundraiser where units collect sponsorships for wreaths to be laid at National Cemeteries in December. Many units also participate or organize the ceremony and wreath-laying events as a service project in their local community.
WAO	Wing Alerting Officer
WFA	Wing Financial Analyst	National employee who provides financial oversight to wings. Office Symbol is FMA.
WMIRS	Web Mission Information Reporting System	CAP's online database to track missions, sorties, aircraft, and funding
WOCN	Work Order Control Number	Tracking identifier for discrepancies listed in AMRAD
WS	Water Survival
WSA	Web Security Administrator
XO	Executive Officer	Office Symbol
XP	Plans and Programs	Office Symbol