Official page for Civil Air Patrol Wisconsin Wing's 153rd Composite Squadron. Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S.
Madison, WI
53704
Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Madison Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Send a message to Madison Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol:
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was established 1 December 1941 as a private, nonprofit (501c3) organization of a benevolent character for civilians to contribute to the defense of the nation during World War II. In 1943 CAP volunteers began serving as an auxiliary of the Army Air Corps and helped spot German U-boats and tow targets for fighter pilots in training. CAP was incorporated by the United States Congress on 1 July 1946 (36 USC 40301- 40307) as a Patriotic and National Organization (like Boy or Girl Scouts). After the war, Congress codified our status as the all-volunteer, official civilian Auxiliary of the United States Air Force on 26 May 1948 (10 USC 909 & 9441).
CAP continues to serve both local communities and the nation by providing an organization to encourage and aid citizens of the United States in contributing their efforts, services, and resources in developing aviation, voluntary contribution to the public welfare, and assisting the Air Force in fulfilling its noncombat programs and missions like inland Search and Rescue. Both adults (18+) and youth (12 – 18) may join, learn, and serve their community in accordance with our four core values of Integrity, Excellence, Volunteer Service, and Respect. Members have opportunities to progress in personal and professional development training series as well as progress in skills training related to either their position in the organization or certain vital emergency services related skills such a radio operation or ground search and rescue.
CAP’s Cadet Program emphasizes community service and uses positive youth development as a part of that program. The CAP Cadet program features five key traits: wearing the Air Force Uniform, aerospace theme, opportunities to lead, challenges, and fun! To fulfill our mission, the Cadet program is organized around four key elements which are the main content for our meetings: leaderships, Aerospace and STEM education, fitness, and positive character development. As Cadets progress, their competence and dedication are recognized through awards and ranks.
Madison has a relatively large and active cadet cohort of about 25. We typically meet on Monday evenings for about 2.5 hours and have a monthly outing to either a training, service project, or community entertainment venue. There are several life skills and friendships that can be built in an organization like ours. Of special note are our growing program areas of Cyber Security (where cadets get free software and learn to code) and Unmanned Aerial Systems operation (where they learn to pilot remotely). Both of these are fields with growing future career opportunities. Offering a space for positive youth development is a core pride and responsibility. All of our adult members must complete FBI background checks and complete Youth Protection Training, regardless of whether they directly work with cadets or not.
