Civil Air Patrol (CAP)

Civil Air Patrol (CAP), voluntary civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. CAP organizes and runs state or district groups (wings) with teenaged cadets as well as adult members. CAP operates an extensive radio network and an educational program, and participates in an international exchange program. Most search and rescue missions in the United States are directed by CAP. Originated in 1941 to organize civilian air participation for wartime tasks, this group is now a nonprofit private organization.