Meet Current Members
Speak with cadets and adult leaders about their experiences in Civil Air Patrol and ask questions about squadron life.
Open House and New Member Intake
Fort Worth Composite Squadron
Cadet Open House & Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program, squadron activities, aerospace education, emergency services, and opportunities for youth and adult volunteers.
About the Cadet Program
Civil Air Patrol cadets focus on Emergency Services, Aerospace Education, Leadership, Character Development, Safety, and Fitness while progressing through achievement levels that increase responsibility and leadership opportunities.
CAP has helped shape future astronauts, pilots, engineers, scientists, military leaders, and community servants for generations.
Open House events are an opportunity for families and prospective members to meet current squadron members, tour facilities, explore emergency services equipment, and learn about CAP’s missions and programs.
What to Expect
Open House Activities
Tour Squadron Facilities
Explore the squadron headquarters and see how meetings, training, and operations are conducted.
Emergency Services Demonstrations
View search and rescue equipment, communications gear, and emergency services demonstrations used during CAP missions.
Aerospace Education
Learn about CAP’s aerospace and STEM opportunities including aviation, cyber defense, radio communications, and flight training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions from prospective cadets, parents, and adult members.
We received our “Welcome to Civil Air Patrol” email. What do we do next?
Once you receive your CAP welcome email, you should also receive your CAPID number. Use this information to create your eServices account.
Access eServiceseServices is where members complete training, register for activities, track qualifications, and manage membership records.
What should we bring to the Open House?
There is no formal dress code for the Open House. Prospective members and families are encouraged to wear neat and comfortable clothing.
No special paperwork or documentation is required unless specifically requested in advance.
Will food or refreshments be available?
Food and refreshments are not permitted inside the museum facility. We appreciate the Fort Worth Aviation Museum for hosting our squadron activities and helping support our mission.
How do we officially join Civil Air Patrol?
Civil Air Patrol normally requires prospective cadets and adult members to attend three squadron meetings before membership approval.
During the third meeting, cadet memberships are typically activated, and families receive additional welcome information from CAP National Headquarters and the squadron.
What materials or handouts will new members receive?
Prospective members receive Civil Air Patrol informational materials, squadron-specific handouts, and guidance from current cadets and adult leaders.
During the Great Start Program, cadets create individualized Flight Plans to help outline goals and achievements for their first year in CAP.
What if our family has financial concerns?
We understand every family’s financial situation is different. If membership costs are a concern, please speak directly with the squadron commander or staff during the Open House.
The squadron may be able to assist with uniform support, scholarships, or additional resources depending on availability.
Where do cadets get their uniforms?
New cadets are not expected to immediately purchase full uniforms during the Great Start Program. The squadron logistics team helps provide available uniform items from squadron inventory.
After earning the Curry Achievement, cadets typically receive a uniform voucher from Vanguard Military Products to assist with purchasing uniforms.
I’m over 18 and interested in joining. What are my next steps?
Prospective adult members are encouraged to attend squadron meetings and speak with current adult leaders about membership opportunities.
Adult applicants normally attend three meetings prior to membership processing and fingerprint background checks.
What is taught during the Great Start Program?
Cadet Orientation
Great Start Curriculum
PT Baseline Testing
Welcome to CAP & History
Customs & Courtesies
Followership
Chain of Command
Uniform Wear
eServices Training
Squadron Email Setup
Basic Field Safety
Cadet Oath
Texas Wing Overview
Aircraft Ground Handling
Introductory Radio Communications
Cyber & STEM Activities
Drill & Ceremonies
Promotion Ceremonies
Individualized Flight Plans
Upon completion of the Great Start Program, cadets typically earn their first promotion, General Emergency Services qualification, Aircraft Ground Handling qualification, and Introductory Radio Communications training.
What if we miss the Open House or a Great Start meeting?
Families who miss an Open House or Great Start meeting are still welcome to participate and join the squadron.
Contact the squadron directly and the staff will help get new members caught up on training and onboarding requirements.
Contact the SquadronReady to Learn More?
Join the Fort Worth Composite Squadron
Whether you are interested in aviation, emergency services, leadership, STEM education, or serving your community, Civil Air Patrol offers opportunities for cadets and adults alike.
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