To join the Cornelius R. Coffey Composite specifically cadets may do so online at:
https://www.capnhq.gov/CAP.MembershipSystem.Web/CadetOnlineApp.aspx
( State = Illinois, Unit = IL – 332)
Annual Dues & Uniforms
Cadets’ annual National membership dues are $35.
Uniform
The Air Force-style uniform is a symbol of the Core Values, inspiring cadets to think of themselves as young leaders. The first required uniform is the Airman Battle Uniform (ABU) which is pre-purchased new for each cadet, included in the Cadet Great Start program fee (approx. $110). Some additional/extra uniform items may be available for free at the squadron.
Upon completing the Great Start training program and Achievement 1, CAP provides each cadet with a $100 voucher for the dress “blues” uniform. Again, some articles may be available for free at the squadron.
When a cadet outgrows a uniform or leaves CAP, we ask families to turn those items in to the local squadron so other cadets might use them.
Uniforms are most commonly obtained from the official Civil Air Patrol uniform supplier, Vanguard, but items can be obtained from other sources as long as they meet the styles and requirements in CAPM 39-1, Civil Air Patrol Uniform Manual.
Safety & Adult Supervision
CAP is a safe, positive environment where cadets can grow and learn. The Cadet Program uses an age-appropriate, military-style training model that challenges young people. While our program is regimented, we do not tolerate any form of abusive behavior or hazing. Our youth protection strategy was updated in 2015, using guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here’s what you should know about how we keep youth safe:
- Every CAP adult leader has been fingerprinted and passed a criminal background check.
- Every CAP adult leader has been trained in how to mentor youth in a positive way, and in how to be alert for signs of inappropriate relationships.
- Every CAP activity (with a few, rare exceptions) will be supervised by at least two CAP adult leaders.
- Every CAP adult leader has been fingerprinted and passed a criminal background check.
- Every CAP adult leader has been trained in how to mentor youth in a positive way, and in how to be alert for signs of inappropriate relationships.
- Every CAP activity (with a few, rare exceptions) will be supervised by at least two CAP adult leaders.
- We structure our activities so that opportunities for isolated, one-on-one contact with cadets are minimized.
- Your local squadron will announce cadet activities via a web calendar, so you can know what events are upcoming.
- You’ll be given written information each time a special activity is held, and be asked to sign a permission slip.
Our Philosophy for Developing Youth
CAP treats cadets as young adults, not children. The Cadet Program instills a sense of personal responsibility and self-discipline. When cadets use their chain of command to ask questions about cadet life or to get help with a problem, they learn selfreliance. Therefore, the cadet experience works best when cadets —not their parent— take responsibility for preparing their uniforms, navigating their way through promotion and award requirements, registering themselves for special events, and the like.
Freedom to Make Mistakes
CAP is a safe place to learn. Our program is carefully designed to develop your cadet as a leader. An important part of that process is the ability to try a new skill and perhaps be less than fully successful at first. A cadet may be reluctant to “stretch their wings” if parents are watching. Please allow your cadet to grow and develop as they work with their fellow cadets and their adult mentors. Parents who hover too closely often inhibit the very successes they hope to see in their cadets.
Homesick Cadets
At overnight activities, it’s normal for cadets to be homesick at first. Limiting contact between cadets and parents, versus reaching for “the world’s longest umbilical cord,” —the cell phone— helps cadets overcome their initial nervousness. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents not to make “pick-up” arrangements as a hedge against homesickness because that approach can undermine the cadet’s confidence and independence.
School Comes First
Cadets are required to maintain “satisfactory progress” in school, as determined by their parents or guardian. The self-discipline that CAP builds typically results in improved grades at school. We support cadets by emphasizing that school takes priority over cadet activities.
An Invitation to Participate
Parents are welcome to observe all CAP activities. There are no secret meetings. CAP can always use more adult volunteers. If you are willing to serve occasionally as a chaperone or driver, consider joining as a Cadet Sponsor Member. If you are interested in participating more fully in CAP’s emergency services, aerospace education or cadet program missions, consider joining as a Senior Member.