Civil Air Patrol Membership
Since Civil Air Patrol’s formation during the earliest days of World War II, citizen Airmen have served America through emergency services, aerospace education, and cadet programs.
Founded on Dec. 1, 1941, to mobilize the nation’s civilian aviation resources for national defense service, Civil Air Patrol has evolved into a premier public service organization that continues to carry out emergency service missions in the air and on the ground.
As a Total Force partner and auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, CAP searches for the lost, provides comfort in times of disaster, supports homeland security, promotes aerospace and STEM education, and helps shape future leaders through its cadet program.
Today’s adult and cadet members serve with the same vigilance as CAP’s founding members, preserving an enduring legacy of service while supporting communities nationwide.
Get Started
The Fort Worth Phoenix Composite Squadron has many opportunities for prospective members to begin their journey with Civil Air Patrol. Fill out the interest form and a squadron member will follow up with more details and a personalized invitation to visit.
Membership in Civil Air Patrol is a privilege reserved for individuals who desire to promote CAP’s objectives and purposes and who meet eligibility requirements. CAP members are volunteers who serve the public good without expectation or receipt of salary, pay, remuneration, or compensation of any kind. Membership is on an annual basis.
Note: Federal Employees Compensation Act benefits and Federal Tort Claims Act liability coverage are only extended to mission-qualified CAP active senior members and cadet members engaged in the scope of authorized missions for the Department of Defense or Air Force.
Ways to Join
Civil Air Patrol offers membership opportunities for cadets, adults, educators, and legislative leaders who want to support CAP’s public service mission.
CAP cadets participate in a year-round program where they fly, learn to lead, hike, camp, get in shape, and push themselves to new limits.
The cadet program develops youth into dynamic citizens and aerospace leaders through leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character education.
Learn About Cadet Membership
CAP adult members come from all walks of life and support the organization in many ways, including emergency services, cadet programs, administration, logistics, communications, finance, and operations.
Adult members help strengthen local squadrons and provide a positive influence for young people across the cadet program.
Learn About Adult Membership
Aerospace Education Members receive access to aerospace and STEM education opportunities, curriculum materials, STEM Kits, and teacher orientation flight opportunities.
This membership category is designed for formal and informal educators promoting aerospace and STEM education in classrooms, homeschools, museums, libraries, and youth organizations.
Learn About Educator MembershipSupport CAP
Legislative membership includes federal and state categories for elected and appointed officials who wish to support Civil Air Patrol.
Members of the United States Congress and federally appointed officials are eligible to become congressional members of Civil Air Patrol. These members are assigned to the Congressional Squadron and may receive the honorary grade of lieutenant colonel.
State legislators, elected state officials, and key staff members may join as state legislative members. These members are assigned to special state legislative squadrons and may receive the honorary grade of major.
Start Your Journey
Whether you are interested in emergency services, aviation, leadership, STEM education, mentoring youth, or serving your community, Civil Air Patrol offers meaningful opportunities for members of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Join a nationwide organization committed to service, excellence, and developing tomorrow’s leaders.
