Personnel and membership FAQ

Membership

Does a commander have the authority to remove a senior member from active status if they are not completing training or participating in any squadron activities?

Unlike cadets, there is no specific requirement for senior members to regularly attend meetings or progress in rank. However, there are provisions for commanders to initiate membership termination or transfer procedures for senior members for habitual failure to complete training requirements, perform duty requirements and for substandard performance of duty over an extended period of time. Commanders might also remove a person from a duty position in the unit for these same reasons. Another possibility for the member who does not complete required training or participate on a regular basis is for the commander to transfer the member from "Active Status" to "Reserve/Patron Status."

See CAPR 35-3 for more information.

Where do I go to renew my CAP membership online?

Individuals wishing to renew online must log into eServices. If your membership has already expired and you are within the prescribed renewal period, you will be taken directly to the online renewal site upon logging in. If your membership is current, you will see the normal eServices pages when they log in. If you are eligible to renew online, you will see a Renewal link in the center of the page. Simply click on that line and it will walk you through all the necessary steps.

Where can I find information on the Aerospace Education Member (AEM) Program?

An important part of CAP's external program is the Aerospace Education Member (AEM) Program. This program is designed primarily for teachers from kindergarten through twelfth grade who want to promote aerospace education in their schools using CAP educational products and resources. For their annual membership dues, AEMs receive a membership certificate, lapel pin, periodic newsletters, special educational products, the opportunity to participate in CAP's School Aerospace Excellence Award Program, etc. Recognizing their budgets are tight, we also have a special annual membership rate for undergraduate student teachers.

For more information, please click on the following link: Educators

I have voluntarily resigned from Civil Air Patrol by sending a letter to the Squadron Commander and the Group Commander. Are there any additional forms that I need to fill out? I can not find any reference to this in the regulations.

Though we hate to lose a member, we realize circumstances may at times limit members' ability to participate in CAP activities. To submit a voluntary resignation, members should use the CAPF 2B. For the reason, select "voluntary resignation." You may request a copy of your records from your unit which will be helpful when you hopefully resume your membership in CAP. Thanks for your volunteer spirit and contributions to CAP, and we hope you'll be able to return as a member someday. Meanwhile you might consider participating in some other membership category.

More information can be found in CAPR 35-3.

Is it possible to join the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) initially as a Patron member?

Details on patron membership are in Chapter 4 (see below) of CAPR 39-2, but the short answer is Yes, you can initially join as a Patron.

4.2. Patron Members. Individuals applying for patron membership through a local squadron should complete a CAPF 12, annotated in red across the top "PATRON MEMBER." The previously authorized National Patron category is being phased out. Individuals may no longer join or transfer in to the squadron. All prospective members applying to a local unit must meet the Unit Membership Board as outlined in paragraph 1.5. prior to the approval of the membership application by the unit commander. Upon approval by the unit commander, the applicant will forward the CAPF 12 along with a check or money order to CAP/DP, 105 South Hansell Street, Maxwell AFB AL 36112-6332. (See attachment 1 and the chart posted online at www.CAPR|39-1embers.com/dues for actual dues amount required.) Commanders must validate the individual’s proof of identity and annotate the Form 2a accordingly. Acceptable documents for proof of identity are the same documents required on the Form I-9 for employment eligibility verification. See attachment 2 for a list of these documents. Patron members are not required to submit a FBI fingerprint card; however, they must meet the membership criteria outlined in paragraph 3.2. above. Once the application is processed by National Headquarters, the member will receive a distinctive membership card. 4.2.1. Patron members may: 4.2.1.1. Receive a specially annotated membership card. 4.2.1.2. Receive the Volunteer magazine (when printed). 4.2.1.3. Receive discounts associated with active membership (car rental, etc.). 4.2.1.4. Retain the last CAP grade held prior to entering patron status if transferred to patron status without a break in service. 4.2.1.5. Attend wing and region conferences and the CAP National Conference sponsored by National Headquarters. 4.2.1.6. Attend special unit social events upon invitation by the commander concerned, such as anniversary celebrations, awards banquets, holiday parties, etc. 4.2.1.7. Use Civil Air Patrol ground transportation, but use of Civil Air Patrol air transportation is prohibited. 4.2.1.8. Transfer to active member status upon meeting active member qualifications. (See paragraph 4.2.3.1. below.) 4.2.2. Patron members may not: 4.2.2.1. Wear the CAP uniform. 4.2.2.2. Ride in or fly CAP aircraft. (This includes member-owned aircraft on CAP flight

Individuals can join as a patron member through their local squadron. They will need to submit a CAPF 12 senior member application with PATRON across the top and one year of dues (patrons pay the same amount as seniors).

If a cadet joins the National Guard, is it true they must resign from CAP, or can they convert to a Senior Member?

They definitely DO NOT have to resign from CAP as CAP has many members who are also active duty service members or members of reserve and guard units. Cadets may have the option of converting to senior membership (active status) or of remaining a cadet under certain conditions.

Please see the following excerpt from CAPR 39-1:

2.5. Upon Joining the Armed Forces. Cadets who join any branch of the active duty Armed Forces (this does not include military service academies) will furnish CAP/DP written notification along with a CAPF 12 and FD Form 258 (see sample at attachment 5), at which time they will be automatically transferred to active membership status. Additional membership dues are not required for the duration of the current membership year; they will be billed as active member renewals. Note: Cadets who join the National Guard or Reserves are not required to become active upon attending "basic training.” Regardless of the wording of the orders, "basic training" is not interpreted by CAP as "extended active duty." However, National Guard or Reserve members who enter "extended active duty" are not eligible to be cadets and must become active members. Individuals who join the Armed Forces under the delayed enlistment program are not required to become active members until such time as they actually report for duty."

If the commander is taking termination action against you, what type of appeal do you have and can you still participate in CAP activities during the appeal?

Appeal procedures are covered in SECTION D - APPEAL PROCEDURES of CAPR 35-3.

A member is automatically considered in suspended status upon notification of membership termination proceedings under CAPR 35-3, Membership Termination. The suspension is effective until the termination process is complete including appeal periods. Members in suspended status are prohibited from attending meetings, participating in CAP activities, wearing the CAP uniform or otherwise exercising the privileges of membership. A suspended member must also turn in his/her membership card to the unit commander for the duration of the suspension.

You should also reference CAPR 35-3, paragraphs 9 and 10; as well as CAPR 35-1, paragrpah 2-2.

Organization and duty assignments

What is a CAP flight and how does it fit into the organization?

The CAP flight is the smallest separate CAP membership unit authorized and must contain a minimum of eight members, three of whom must be seniors. Flights should be organized only in sparsely populated areas where there are an insufficient number of individuals to constitute a squadron. Note this is a separate unit not the standard flights or elements which make up a squadron.

See CAPR 20-1 for more details.

In a Composite Squadron, what are the qualifications for the Deputy Commander for Cadets? Could an 18 year old high-school senior be appointed to this position if he converts to senior member status? What are the applicable CAP regulations?

According to CAPR 30-1, CAP Organization, Part III, the Deputy Commander for Cadets is a senior member position, so an 18 year old cadet would have to transfer to senior member status. While the member would not be eligible for CAP officer grade due to age, he or she may be eligible for flight officer grade depending on previous cadet achievements. One should also be mindful of age restrictions for seniors under 21-years of age with regard with chaperoning and escorting duties. The squadron commander should use caution when filing this duty assignment.

Is there a term limit for a squadron commander or just a suggested term limit?

Yes, there is a term limit. The wing commander appoints group, squadron, and flight commanders. These commanders serve a four-year term of office. Upon completion of the initial term, the Commander may be appointed to subsequent four-year terms with the approval of the Wing and Region commander.

Please see CAPR 20-1 for more information.

What is needed to charter a new CAP unit?

For details on chartering a new CAP unit see Paragraph 5 of CAPR 20-3.

Ribbons and awards

I have a question about the award of unit citation ribbons, and whether there was such a thing as a "temporary" award. Basically, if a new cadet joins a squadron that has one unit citation award, a wing that has 4, and a region that has 2, does he have the right to wear the unit citation award with a silver and bronze clasp? Is he "temporarily" allowed to wear this award, while a member of the unit? Several members quoted several different sections of CAPR 39-3 for me, and I'm not sure how to interpret it.

The Unit Citation Ribbon may be worn permanently by all individuals who were members of the unit during any portion of the period of time shown in the National Headquarters Personnel Action announcing the award. New members such as the new cadet mentioned who join after the period of time specified for the award are not eligible to wear the unit citation ribbon previously awarded. Unit awards are intended to be worn by members of the unit who were assigned and contributed to the mission during the period specified in the award. Allowing new members to wear the award "temporarily" while assigned to the unit is not in accordance with the intent of CAPR 39-3, "A member must be in good standing at the time of the distinguished act and must meet the criteria established for the award."

Can I wear the ribbons I earned as a cadet as a senior member?

You can wear some of the ribbons you earned as a cadet as a senior member. A list of these ribbons can be found at Attachment 2 of CAPR 39-3.

NOTE: The wording, "only the highest cadet program ribbon will be worn" refers to cadet achievement/milestone awards (Curry through Spaatz). There are a number of other ribbons and awards that may continue to be worn.

Where can I find out about earning the community service ribbon?

Requirements are found in CAPR 39-3, paragrpah 21 (i).

Which regulation covers the award of medals and ribbons?

CAPR 39-3, Award of CAP Medals, Awards and Certificates.

Are state ribbons from the National Guard authorized on the CAP uniform?

CAP allows wear of decorations,ribbons, and badges earned during service in any branch of the US armed forces but not state decorations. More information is found in CAPR 39-3 and CAPR 39-1.

Who is allowed to wear the CAP command badge?

Taken from CAPR 39-1:

10.2.6. Command Insignia Pin. Wear of this badge is mandatory on USAF-style uniforms and optional with all Corporate-style uniforms for all current and graduated commanders in the rank of lieutenant colonel and below. Commanders (current and graduated) may only wear one commander pin, and current commanders wear the pin appropriate to their current assignment. Members are considered “graduated” after one year in office. This badge is not worn by officers who were members of the Command Council, the CAP Senior Advisory Group, the National Board or the National Executive Committee.

Is there guidance on wearing miniature devices like stars on medals and ribbons and normal/large devices?

Yes. CAP follows the guidance outlined in DAFI 36-2903. Wear regular size devices on regular medals and regular ribbons; miniature devices on miniature ribbons and medals. Wear all the same size devices.

What is the protocol for wearing the mini-medals on a civilian formal wear at a formal function ( i.e. an Inaugural Ball)?

CAPR 39-1 restricts members from wearing awards and decorations on civilian clothing. CAP medals and ribbons will be worn only by CAP members for whom they have been authorized and only on those uniforms outlined in CAPR 39-1. There are a number of CAP Lapel Pins available from Vanguard which might be worn on civilian formal wear. Miniature medals are mandatory when wearing the AF style mess dress uniform (men and women). Also one miniature medal of choice may be worn on the CAP semiformal blazer uniform.

Can I still earn and wear the NRA Marksmanship Badge?

Cadets may wear the badge in accord with CAPR 39-1. "NRA Marksmanship Badge. Cadets may wear one marksmanship qualification medal/badge earned by completing the requirements of the NRA Marksmanship Qualification Program. Documentation in the cadet’s personnel record which documents program requirement completion in accordance with published NRA guidelines is authority for wear." Senior members may not wear the badge regardless if earned as a cadet.

Are CAP members eligible for US Air Force awards like the Air Force Achievement Medal?

No not as CAP members. You may wear ribbons earned in the US armed forces on the CAP uniform but CAP members have a separate regulation (CAPR 39-3) which describes the medals, ribbons, and certificates that may be awarded to Civil Air Patrol members. It establishes the requirements to qualify for them, explains the administrative procedures involved, and prescribes how the medals and ribbons are worn. CAP members are not members of the armed services and thus are not eligible for Air Force awards such as the achievement medal.

Several of the cadets from my squadron attended and competed in the National Cadet Competition. They would like to know if they are eligible to wear the NCSA ribbon, and if so would they only be allowed to wear it during special ceremonies? We were told by a senior member that wearing the NCSA ribbon is only allowed during special events like National Boards or banquets at the end of special activities. Is this true?

No. The NCC ribbon and the NCGC ribbon are earned separately from the NCSA ribbon. Once earned none of these ribbons are removed for any type of special events at any level. The senior member is probably mistakenly thinking of certain uniform items which may be approved for wear by the commander in the wing or region but may not be worn to national events or encampments.

Please see CAPR 39-3 for more information.

Uniforms

Where can I find information on proper wear of the CAP uniform?

The regulation which covers proper uniform wear for CAP members is CAPR CAPR.

What do I do if the service coat lapel covers the top badge above my ribbons?

Most broadly, on the USAF-style service coat, all ribbons, badges and devices worn be adult members must fall below the top notch of the collar on the service coat.

Please see CAPR CAPR.

Is the AF cardigan sweater authorized as an outergarment for outdoor wear?

Yes. Will only be worn with the USAF Service Uniform (Class B), Aviator Shirt Uniform or Corporate Working Uniform. With the USAF-style uniform, it may be worn under the lightweight blue jacket, the topcoat and the all-weather coat. With Corporate-style uniforms, it may be worn with any outergarment as long as it does not show beneath the lower edge of the outergarment. Gray epaulets will only be worn if the sweater is worn with the Air-Force-style blue uniform.

See CAPR CAPR.

What color are the gray slacks for seniors? There are many shades of gray. CAPR 39-1 states a "medium gray...." Is this closer to a charcoal or a heather gray? Would it be the same color gray as the name plates and epaulets? Or slightly darker?

MCAPR|39-1 is no longer available. CAPR CAPR replaced the manual.

Although members wear various shades of gray pants with the blazer combination and aviator shirt, the uniform manual calls for medium gray.

CAPR CAPR. 4.2.3.3. Trouser. Medium Gray (solid color). Wool, polyester‐wool blend or polyester‐cotton trousers will be worn. Either slim, straight leg or loose fit with or without pleats or cuffs is allowed. 100% cotton, tactical, chinos cotton twill weave trousers, jeans or casual trousers are not authorized with this uniform combination.

What footwear is authorized for flight suits? It is the opinion of some that only boots can be worn with AF flight suits.

CAPR CAPR. 8.2.11. Footwear. Black combat boots are worn with the FDU.

Can I wear my flight suit going to a SAREX?

Yes if the uniform is approved for the activity. Basically, the AF flight suit may be worn during travel to and from activities provided it is not by commercial means and only essential stops are made enroute to and from the duty performance site. Wear of the AF flight suit while shopping or other nonessential activities would be prohibited.

I was wondering if I can wear my service dress blue uniform while flying on a commercial airplane?

CAPR CAPR. 1.2.7.1. During Commercial Travel. When traveling in an official capacity on commercial air, in Continental United States (CONUS), Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Service Dress uniform (Class A), Service uniform (Class B), Corporate Service Dress, Aviator Shirt Uniform or Corporate Working Uniform (polo shirt/gray slacks) may be worn when approved by the individual’s commander. Wear of field/utility, or flight uniforms is not authorized.

For more information, please view CAPR CAPR.

Where can I find instructions on wear of the blue CAP utility and field uniforms?

CAPR CAPR. 5.2.1. Men’s and Women’s Corporate Field Uniform (Dark Blue, BDU Style) (Figure 5.4). Field uniforms are specifically designed to be worn in a field or working environment that involves physical exertion. Field uniform wear is generally restricted to CAP meeting and activities with a field or training focus but may be worn away from activities for short convenience stops and when eating at restaurants where people wear comparable civilian attire. Do not wear field uniforms to eat in restaurants where most diners wear business attire or at establishments that operate primarily to serve alcohol. Do not starch or hot press shoulder patches. Light ironing and center creasing of NCO chevrons is authorized; however, repeated hot pressing or heavy ironing will accelerate the overall wear of the fabric. Females may wear the male version of any of the field uniforms.

CAPR CAPR for more information.

I was wondering if I can wear my cadet dress blues to a school dance or other functions?

4.1.3. Men’s Semi-Formal Dress Uniform (Cadet Only). Only cadets can wear the USAF-style semi-formal uniform. Men’s Semi-Formal Dress Uniform is worn for social functions of a semi-formal and/or official nature as prescribed by the commander or equivalent. Semi-formal is the same term used when describing the civilian equivalent. When in semi-formal dress, saluting is not required. Recommend discussing the situation with your unit commander.

For further information, please see CAPR CAPR.

What is the policy on wearing the CAP uniform when visiting military bases?

For more information, please see CAPR CAPR 1.2.6. When to Wear a CAP Uniform.

Where can I find pictures of different AF uniform combinations?

You can view CAPR CAPR for photos and graphics of Air Force-style uniform combination as worn by CAP members.

You may also view DAFI 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel.

Are cadets authorized to wear the high polished shoes with the blues or service dress uniform?

6.4. Footwear. 6.4.1.2. Low Quarters. Low-quarters are worn with the Mess Dress, Semiformal, Service Dress and Service uniforms (black combat boots and dress boots are also an option with the service dress and service uniform). Shoes will be low quarter, oxford-style, lace-up with a plain rounded toe or a plain rounded-capped toe. Soles will not exceed ½ inch in thickness and the heel will not exceed one inch in height (measured from the inside front of the heel). Shoes will be smooth or scotch-grained leather or manmade material. Shoes will be shined; high gloss or patent finish is optional. CAPR CAPR

Miscellaneous

Where can I find guidance on public displays of affection between cadets?

Public displays of affection, such as hand-holding, embracing, or walking arm-in-arm, are inappropriate actions for all members in any CAP uniform. Indiscriminate displays of affection in public detract from the professional image the Civil Air Patrol intends to project. Your decision to join Civil Air Patrol (CAP) reflects a dedication and commitment to support this charitable, benevolent, nonprofit corporation. As a member of an Auxiliary of the United States Air Force, you are expected to follow the traditions, standards, customs and courtesies agreed and accepted by the Air Force and the Civil Air Patrol. These apply to all of us and reflect our pride and professionalism as members of the Civil Air Patrol.

Conduct. General. The Air Force has a very important mission and you, as a member of the Civil Air Patrol, have similar responsibilities for carrying out your mission. You are responsible for carrying out orders, performing specific tasks related to your duties, and living up to the high standards of the Civil Air Patrol. You are also held accountable for your actions, both in the performance of duties and in your personal conduct. If you are a supervisor, you have the responsibility to make sure your subordinates meet the expected standards. You must hold your subordinates accountable and take appropriate corrective actions when they do not fulfill their responsibilities. Civil Air Patrol standards of conduct apply both on and off duty, in your personal behavior, in your treatment of others, and in both military and civilian environments.

Civil Air Patrol Ethics. As a member of the Civil Air Patrol you must practice the highest standards of behavior, obedience, and loyalty-not only in your job, but in your relationship with other people. Your code of ethics must be such that your behavior and motives do not create even the appearance of impropriety. Your commitment to integrity will lead the way for others to follow.

Also see CAPP 151, Respect on Display.

Must a uniform be worn to drive/ride in a CAP van? If so, by driver and all passengers?

There is no specific requirement for senior members to be in uniform while driving or riding in a CAP van unless they are participating in or conducting the cadet program. Note: The wing or region may have established such a requirement.

CAP uniform wear is required by all while participating in or conducting the cadet program or flying in CAP aircraft (corporate and member-owned aircraft used in CAP flight activity). If cadets and seniors working with cadets are traveling in a CAP vehicle while participating in the cadet program, they normally should be in uniform. However, the regulation does allow region or wing commanders, or designees (usually group or unit commanders), to prescribe the type clothing to be worn by members while flying or engaging in organized recreational activities. In this case cadets might be authorized by a commander to ride in CAP vehicles wearing civilian clothes. For example, during a volunteer clean up day or trip to a theme park or unit picnic or other social gathering, all CAP members would likely be in civilian clothes. See CAPR 39-1, para 1.2.4 for more detail.

What are the rules on wearing sunglasses with the CAP uniform?

Conservative sunglasses may be worn with the AF style and CAP distinctive uniforms, except in military formation . Glasses must be free of ornamentation on frames and lenses. (faddish styles and mirrored lenses prohibited). Sunglass cases will not be worn exposed on the uniform.

Please see CAPR 39-1, para 6.3.1.2 for more information.