I’m a former 2LT in the CAP. We used to joke that CAP stood for ‘Come And Pay’. There are national dues, squadron dues, uniforms to buy… Most of the aircraft used by the CAP are owned by its members. The member is responsible for maintaining his aircraft, and they are only reimbursed a small amount for fuel when the aircraft is used on an authorised mission. Using your own aircraft for a CAP mission is a money-losing proposition. But…
CAP members regularly perform search-and-rescue and disaster-relief functions. Many of those uniformed teenagers you see at your local airshows are CAP cadets. They volunteer their time, their money, and their expertise to help in times of need. I salute those active CAP members who are out there helping to save lives, whether they are helping out in the aftermath of Katrina or searching for a lost hiker or missing aircraft.
When I get my life straightened out and get myself current again, I’m planning to sign up again.
I have always wanted to be a member of the CAP. I only have a vague idea of what they do but it sounds rewarding and exciting. I hope they can do some good on the Gulf Coast. My hat is off to them.
The CAP has been called ‘The Air Force’s best kept secret’. When I was still a member, in the early-'90s, we lost an aircrew in the mountains north of Los Angeles. They were searching for a missing aircraft in lousy weather, and the weather caught up with them. IIRC, it was a Pilot, Observer, and two Scanners in a C-182. Those guys (and women) give their time and money to a good cause, and sometimes they give more.