1.  How does the CAP cadet program differ from scouting?

There are numerous and significant ways in which the CAP cadet program differs from scouting. A complete description of these differences is available at the Virginia Wing web site.

2.  Can participation in CAP help my son/daughter get into college?

CAP can help cadets both indirectly and directly. The cadet program seeks to instill within cadets principles of teamwork, personal accountability, and moral leadership. In terms of extracurricular activities, cadet involvement in CAP is an outstanding reference on a college application.

For those cadets seeking a commission in the United States Air Force it should be noted that approximately 8% of all cadets attending the United States Air Force Academy are former CAP cadets.

Squadron 141 enjoys an excellent relationship with the local USAF recruiter. An enlistment in the Air Force can help cadets to pursue a technical track or earn money for college tuition after high school graduation. Upon enlistment in the USAF a cadet who has earned the General Billy Mitchell Award will be awarded the advance grade of E3.

3.  Are there any CAP sponsored scholarships available?

Yes, each year CAP provides academic and flight training scholarships to deserving cadets (and senior members) who meet eligibility requirements. More information on scholarships is available at the CAP National web site section covering Cadet Programs.

4.  Is CAP safe?

CAP conducts FBI criminal history record checks on every CAP senior member in our best effort to screen any individuals with past offenses. We also require senior members to participate in our Cadet Protection Program Training (CPPT). For more information regarding how CAP approaches cadet safety please refer to CAP Pamphlet 50-6, CAP Cadet Protection Policy and Program for Parents.

5.  How much will a CAP cadet membership cost?

The initial dues for a cadet membership in Virginia are $49.00 for the first year and $32.00 to renew each year thereafter. These dues are paid to CAP National Headquarters.

In addition to paying dues, cadets will initially require a Blues Uniform. The Air Force provides funds on a yearly basis so that cadets may obtain a free Blues Uniform while funds are available. Shoes and the insignia required on the uniform are NOT included. The form for ordering the uniform is part of the cadet application. The cost of the items not included in the free uniform package are summarized in the table below. The prices shown are derived from the CAP Store by Vanguard (Note: This link will open a new browser window and leave this site.) online store.

Cadets will want to purchase the Battle Dress Uniform, or BDU. The BDU is the general work/utility uniform worn when participating in many special events, such as encampments. The items listed in the table below are needed to complete this uniform.

An important thing for parents to keep in mind is that as a federally chartered non-profit corporation, CAP is tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. This entitles members to claim various expenses as charitable contributions for Federal tax purposes. These include:

• Membership dues
• Expenses for uniforms and training
• Out-of-pocket expenses while participating in CAP
• Twelve cents per mile for use of personal vehicle
• Travel and living expenses while attending CAP meetings

6.  Where can uniforms/insignia be purchased?

In addition to CAP Store by Vanguard  (Note: This link will open a new browser window and leave this site.), the official CAP online store, there are other locations where uniform items may be found. Surplus stores are a great place to look for non-CAP specific items such as BDU pants and boots.  The squadron may have a limited supply of some surplus clothing items as well.

7.  What commitment is required of parents?

Parent participation is strongly encouraged and we're always looking for new and motivated members. Have you considered one of the many types of Senior Membership for yourself? At a minimum, parents will need to provide transportation to and from the weekly meetings held at the Chesapeake Regional Airport every Thursday at 6:30PM. Transportation to and from other events, such as airshows and encampments is typically, though not always, provided by CAP.

8.  Where can I find more information?

The CAP national web site  is an excellent source for further information. It contains a section specifically for parents. You may also email any questions you have to the Squadron 141 Commander, or attend one of our weekly meetings. Please refer to the Contact page for details on how to find us.