What role does the Civil Air Patrol serve in relation to the USAF?

The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) serves as a support organization under the USAF Auxiliary, which means it is closely aligned with the United States Air Force’s mission. Established in 1941, CAP operates as a volunteer organization that conducts a variety of missions, including search and rescue operations, disaster relief, and aerospace education. The formal relationship with the USAF provides CAP with a structure that enhances its capabilities while supplementing missions that are important to national defense and emergency management.

The association under the USAF Auxiliary allows CAP members, who are primarily volunteers, to receive training and participate in missions that support the Air Force’s objectives. This partnership ensures that CAP can effectively face the challenges of national security and assist in civil emergencies, thereby playing a vital role in community safety and military readiness.