Cawgcadets.org - California Wing Cadet Programs

Thank you for your interest in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program! You will find the CAP program to be exciting, interesting and educational.

Use the Unit Locator to find the Civil Air Patrol Squadron nearest to you.Your visit should be preceded with a phone to call to the local unit to let them know who you are and that you are planning on visiting. If you are under 18 years of age, please bring a parent with you for your first meeting.

You will find our CAP members to be friendly and helpful. Usually, a member will be "assigned" to you for that first meeting to help explain the program and answer any questions you may have. Most squadrons require that a prospective member attend three consecutive meetings before they may join -- everyone wants to make sure that CAP is the right program for you!

After signing up, cadets over 18 will be need to participate in cadet protection training. Also, members will need to purchase uniforms and the patches to go with them (some uniforms may be furnished by the US Air Force). Uniforms may be purchased through an online web site or at any Air Force base. In addition, many units have used uniforms that be obtained for little or no cost.

Cadets promote (from Cadet Airman Basic to Cadet Colonel) through a series of exams on Leadership, Aerospace Education and Physical Fitness. Promotions are also based on activity attendance, attitude and must be approved by their squadron commander. Cadets promoting to Cadet Second Lieutenant and entering the military enlisted are usually promoted to E-3 upon joining.

Thanks again for your interest in the California Wing's Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program! If you have any questions, please direct them to our Director of Cadet Programs, Lt Col Antony (Tony) Upton, at aupton@cawg.cap.gov.