About CAP & the NJ Wing
CAP MISSION STATEMENT
Supporting America's communities with emergency response, diverse aviation and ground services, youth development, and promotion of air, space, and cyber power.
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CAP MOTTOSemper Vigilans "Always Vigilant"
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CAP CORE VALUEIntegrity; Volunteer Service; Excellence; Respect
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CAP VISION STATEMENT
Civil Air Patrol, America's Air Force auxiliary, building the nation's finest force of citizen volunteers serving America.
ABOUT CIVIL AIR PATROL
Founded on December 1, 1941, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has a storied history, deeply rooted in the "Birthplace of Civil Air Patrol" - New Jersey. With the historic "Coast Patrol Base 1" at Bader Field in Atlantic City, New Jersey stands as a cornerstone in the foundation of CAP. This is where CAP's first missions were launched, playing a pivotal role in mobilizing the nation's civilian aviation resources for national defense service during World War II. Under the Army Air Forces' jurisdiction, CAP pilots heroically flew over half a million hours, significantly contributing to wartime efforts by sinking enemy submarines and rescuing hundreds of crash survivors.
Post-war, on July 1, 1946, President Harry Truman formally recognized the valor and utility of CAP, establishing it as a federally chartered benevolent civilian corporation. Further solidifying its role, Congress passed Public Law 557 on May 26, 1948, and later, Public Law 106-398 in October 2000, designating CAP as a volunteer civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.
Today, the New Jersey Wing proudly continues this legacy with over 1,580 members, including cadets aged 12 to 21 and senior members over 18. Our diverse members, united by their passion for aviation and the space program, are dedicated to guiding and nurturing our cadets, the next leaders of America. As part of the CAP's Total Force partnership and Auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, the New Jersey Wing is actively engaged in searching for and finding the lost, providing comfort in times of disaster, and ensuring the safety of our homeland.
Our commitment extends beyond emergency services to encompass aerospace education and cadet programs. We diligently work towards the well-being of our communities, promoting aviation, aerospace, and STEM education, embodying the essence of CAP's primary missions. The New Jersey Wing, at the heart of CAP's inception, continues to forge a path of excellence, honoring its rich history while shaping a future marked by service, leadership, and innovation in the field of civil air defense and community service.
