Application Done?

[KirkF22]

?I completed the CAP application that i downloaded from the website. I havent gone to a meeting yet but can i bring the application to my first meeting and have the commander sign it and i can mail it in right after the first meeting? Im already possitive im joining, i dont need any more convincing from the squadron. So would it be fine to have her sign the application the first night im there.

[EMT-83]

That's a question for the commander; the folks here can't speak for him

[arajca]

Many units like to have prospective members attend three meetings before joining. This enables both the unit and the prospective member to ensure it's a good fit on both sides. But, ultimately, it's up to the unit.

[Pylon]

You can certainly hand-in your application to the unit when you go to the next meeting.  As everyone else has stated, the chain of command at that unit will better be able to tell you what to expect as far as the joining process goes.  The application will generally be mailed to National Headquarters by the unit, not the recruit, after it has been reviewed and accepted by the Squadron Commander.

[KirkF22]

Ok so she will mail it in not me. And also I found this application on the cap website but I've seen different versions on other websites. Is there more than one version of the application?

[Eclipse]

Ok so she will mail it in not me. And also I found this application on the cap website but I've seen different versions on other websites. Is there more than one version of the application?

Only the most current one should be used, and the unit will hand you one, so just wait until they do.  Many units have pre-printed applications
with the unit specifics already completed.

[KirkF22]

This is the one I found on cap website.
http://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/F015_9C2337B9FC619.pdf

[Private Investigator]

KirkF22, that is the correct one. Do visit the Squadron 3 times. If possible you should visit 3 different Squadrons.

My son had a choice of a Composite or two different Cadet Squadrons. He picked the Composite because they had a CAP plane. One Cadet Squadron was more like a boy scout troop and just did 'stuff' to keep busy, if you know what I mean. The other was closer to an 'after school' program. 

Have fun with it   

[KirkF22]

Well there's only one close to me, the others are far away. But for my first meeting should I hand her the application and she can sign it and mail it in when she wants? Or would that get me off to a bad start with her?

[Pylon]

I personally think it shows initiative to bring an application (a good thing).

[KirkF22]

Ok because most people say go to three meetings to make sure you are interested in joining. But I'm already positive I want to join.

[MIKE]

If I were the squadron commander I would still make you attend 3 meetings before I'd sign the CAPF 15... then I start the pool on if you make it a year.    You're so sure you are joining, but you haven't even seen the inside of your local squadron yet.

[KirkF22]

What do you mean you start a pool?

[Private Investigator]

When I was Squadron Commander I wanted the applicant to see three different meetings. Once a quarter we will have the 5th Tuesday night which was casual night, a movie and pizza. Everybody thinks, wow this is cool. Next meeting we have physical fitness test and now it sucks! Or that Staff member's personality really is annoying, but you will have to put up with it because we are not changing Staff because you can not get along with somebody.

Remember their will be a 14 year old Cadet Staff Sergeant that will be going "Full Metal Jacket" on you and you will have to deal with it. Later the Senior Staff will correct her but at the 'moment' you will have to deal with it.   

[KirkF22]

I know ill have to go to 3 meeting first, but do you think its fine for me to give her the application the first meeting?

[Private Investigator]

What do you mean you start a pool?

On how long you will last. We do the same with Senior Members. Cadets tend to have high attrition rates. The first couple of months it is all new and interesting but after a while some people get tired of the regimentation. The 1st Monday of every month is the same, just like the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Monday of every month. If you just look forward to the 5th Monday, that comes once a quarter, to do fun stuff. You might not make it.

Also other activities come up, like the opposite sex, driver's license, fishing, et cetera.

Good luck   :angel:

[KirkF22]

well ive already got my license and im not interested in a relationship currently because im focusing on school.

[Dad2-4]

Yes, it's absolutely OK for you to hand in an application at your first meeting. Like others have said, take your time to get to know how things run. Talk with the Squadron Commander about what you would like to get out of CAP and listen to what the commander tells you about what is expected of you.
You shouldn't have a cadet Staff Sergeant going "full metal jacket" on anyone, but sometimes people think it's OK to treat new cadets like real military recruits. That just shows their inexperience in leadership.
Hope you have a long and prosperous CAP career.

[spacecommand]

Personally, if it were me, I would take the application, hang onto it, and ask that you still attend at least three meetings to get a feel of it.  I'll usually assign a new prospective cadet with one of our senior cadets to guide them around.

At the end of the second meeting, I'll see how you are liking things and if things are good, I'll remind you to bring a check to pay for the application at your next meeting and hand it in.  Also if you haven't already, I'll need to see some sort of official documentation to prove your identity.  If you parents have any questions I would like to speak with them too (parent's usually do have a lot of questions, pertaining to uniform items, promotions and activities etc).

[KirkF22]

Thank you. How much do I right the checks out to be. And also I get the dress blues for free but I have to order the bdu from vanguard correct?

[Critical AOA]

Thank you. How much do I right the checks out to be. And also I get the dress blues for free but I have to order the bdu from vanguard correct?

You write a check, not right one.

Also, I agree with those who say to visit more than one squadron and make a few visits to each.  They are not all the same and you will enjoy your CAP experience more if you find the one that is a better fit.

[KirkF22]

Sorry about the spelling error. And I am too far away from the other squadrons. But could someone still answer my last question about the BDUs and Dress Blues.

[rustyjeeper]

Dress uniform does come from NHQ (if monies and availability allow). There is a module in e-services that you order it from- your unit should teach you how to do that. The BDU uniform you can order from vanguard or obtain at an army navy store or find on e-bay (which is usually cheaper than vanguard) and yes you pay for the BDU's out of pocket. Once you are in a while it is likley you will need two sets of BDU's for encampment or other activities but dont go crazy until you are sure you are staying.

[Eclipse]

BDU.COM or AAFES is your best best for a field uniform.

[BillB]

I'd like to know what AAFES Eclipse finds BDUs at. The few I've seen haven't had BDUs for over a year

[Pylon]

Thank you. How much do I right the checks out to be. And also I get the dress blues for free but I have to order the bdu from vanguard correct?

Your squadron commander can tell you best how much to write the checks for.  Some squadrons have membership dues (which would likely go on a separate check from National/Wing dues).


Correct on getting most of the dress blues after you join.  You'll (eventually) get: the shirt-sleeve blues shirt, pants, belt, and flight cap.  You will not get black dress shoes, or any of the required insignia (collar "cutouts", nameplate, flight cap device at minimum).  You will have to find your own shoes and order the minimum insignia from Vanguard.


Optional items will you also not get include: a tie and tie tack or bar, a long-sleeve shirt, a service coat, and outerwear (raincoat, overcoat, or lightweight jacket).  But also understand that the FCU (Free Cadet Uniform) can take several months to arrive after you've joined.


The BDUs are indeed a privately-procured item.  But don't run out and buy some right now.  Some CAP units (like mine) keep a robust stock of BDU uniforms on hand and issue BDUs, boots, and field jackets to every cadet.  Those items ultimately belong to the unit should our cadets leave the program, but that could save you over $100.  Wait to see what your unit has in stock, if anything, to lend its cadets.


You also may want to wait on ordering insignia from Vanguard.  My squadron streamlines the process for cadets and orders a "new cadet package" of uniform items for a flat-fee.  The squadron takes advantage of multiple-person orders and absorbs shipping costs, and takes the confusion out of it for new cadets — this way we know all our cadets will get the correct insignia (not end up with a SM nameplate or the wrong cutouts ("US") or something) and will receive them in a timely manner.   Your unit may have something similar or may have a squadron supply box they can sell you items from.


So as with all the other questions above:  your squadron can give you the best answers.  You have good questions.  But write them down and wait until your next meeting to ask them there.

[Garibaldi]

Black Rothco jungle boots...uspatriottactical.com. look at the closeouts. $15 per pair and they have a pretty good stock of sizes.

[KirkF22]

Thanks everyone for all of the info.

[SarDragon]

Black Rothco jungle boots...uspatriottactical.com. look at the closeouts. $15 per pair and they have a pretty good stock of sizes.

YGBSM!

What a waste of money. IMHO, Rothco is just another way to spell crap. At $15/pair, you get what you pay for. Spend a bit more, and get a better, more durable, more comfortable boots.

[KirkF22]

Could someone list the things I need that won't come with the dress blues?

[Pylon]

Could someone list the things I need that won't come with the dress blues?

I already did in my post above.  TL;DR?


Mandatory things (stuff that you will need, at minimum, to wear the blues) that will not come with Free Cadet Uniform (FCU):  blue 3-line nameplate, "CAP" cutouts pair for collar, flight cap device, black dress shoes, black dress socks, v-neck white undershirt.


Optional things (things you do NOT have to own) which will not come with FCU:  tie, tie tack or tie bar, shirt stays, long-sleeve shirt, service jacket, outerwear (raincoat, overcoat, lightweight jacket), sweater.

[KirkF22]

Ok thank you. And what about for the bdu?

[Pylon]

Ok thank you. And what about for the bdu?

Minimum you will need:  BDU coat, BDU trousers.  They should match (winter-weight or summer/ripstop weight).  BDU patrol cap.  One set of metal "CAP" collar devices/cutouts (same as for blues).  One white-on-blue nametape with your last name; one white-on-blue "Civil Air Patrol" tape.  One reverse, full-color American flag patch.  Black or brown crew-neck t-shirt.  Blue web belt with subdued tip and buckle.  Boot socks.  Black leather combat boots. 


Option items include: squadron patch (if your unit has one); wing patch; blousing bands.


Again, I urge you to not run out and buy everything right now.  Wait until you talk to your unit to see what they might be able to issue you or loan you.

[rustyjeeper]

name tape,
c.a.p. tape
wing patch
revese flag patch
unit patch()
cap cutouts
cover
blousing bands
combat boots
bdu belt
brown or black t shirt

skivvies are type of your choice

I suggest you google capr 39-1 and do some reading thru the uniform manual before buying anything so you get a good idea before spending money
No one should expect a cedet to have it all when they first join; usually it takes a few months before a cadet has the full uniform and all the paraphenelia associated with it-- give it time and slow down- as others have said it takes time and thre is a reason for the 3 meeting rule
you will soon learn CAP stands for COME AND PAY as things add up

[KirkF22]

Thanks I'm not going to buy anything for a while. But I live in florida, so I probably won't be getting the winter coat correct?

[Eclipse]

Thanks I'm not going to buy anything for a while. But I live in florida, so I probably won't be getting the winter coat correct?

Do you own a winter civilian coat?

[rustyjeeper]

Thanks I'm not going to buy anything for a while. But I live in florida, so I probably won't be getting the winter coat correct?

Not unless you buy one.

The USAF cadet uniform you get thru NHQ does not include a jacket. That you buy. You get a pair of pants, shirt, belt and flight cap I beleive issued with the iniitial uniform issue- if that is what you are asking.

Again, your unit may have things to issue out as well. Oftern people leave the program and sometimes they donate uniforms to the unit on the way out. It's good to ask and be knowledgeable, but slow down there are lots of things to spend money on in CAP as you will soon find out

[KirkF22]

I mean like I should by the summer coat not the winter one since its summer 365 days a year.

[BillB]

Kirk,   Read 39-1.  There is no such things as a "winter coat" and "summer coat". There is an overcoat which you will not need. A service coat that you will need later on and the windbreaker. If you live south of I-4 you would not need the liner for the windbreaker unless you go to a winter encampment. It can get cool in north Florida.(I'm to lazy to see where FL-152 is) Many cadets get the raincoat, but chances are you'll only wear it maybe twice a year. Best advise, see what your Squadron might have to loan you.  And if your Squadron is on the ball, they may have checked with the local AFJROTC for surplus uniform items at the end of the last semester. AFJROTC can only issue uniforms to CAP or ship to DRMO per letter from AFROTC at Maxwell..

[spacecommand]

I suggest the original poster actually attend a few meetings first before worrying about uniform items etc!

I don't know anything about the unit you are visiting, but if you were visiting my unit then became a member, we have many uniform items that we can give to you for FREE (like a set of BDUs!).  We usually get many donations and cadets also recycle uniform items as well that you can get (jackets, sweaters etc).  Though some items like personalized nametags you need to purchase yourself. 

Each unit is different, attend the unit meetings first, and see how things are, ask questions about the uniform etc, you might find out that the unit or though other sources like group or wing you can get many items without paying for them.  Talk with the other cadets, they also might have stuff at home they no longer use etc. 

It all starts first with attending meetings!

[SarDragon]

FWIW, SER-FL-152 is North Palm Beach County Cadet Squadron.

[KirkF22]

Thank everyone. And don't worry, I'm not going to buy anything until I make sure my squadron doesn't have anything extra or if cadets can give me anything. Thank you everyone for all the information. I'll let you guys know how the meeting went tomorrow night.

[KirkF22]

Well i had my first meeting tonight. It wasnt what i was expecting but im guessing it was because it was PT night and it was raining. But i got a one on one with a Senior Captain member. I already knew him because he is a family friend. He gave me the run down about CAP and he said its the greatest organization in the world. Im looking forward to the next couple of meeting to see what else goes on.

I have one more question thought. You you lose your privilege of taking o-rides once you turn 18 or it it once you are a senior member. Because the squadron leader was saying that after september there wont be any o-rides until 2013. And im already 16 and will be 17 before next summer and i dont want to miss out on this opportunity.

[SarDragon]

The cutoff for cadet O-flights is 18.

I don't understand how he can definitively say that there will be delay in O-flight funding in the new fiscal year. Yes, it has happened in the past, but  there is no certainty that it will happen again, or when the funding will be cut loose, if there is a delay.

[spacecommand]

As you can see, the purpose of attending meetings before you join is to see if that unit or CAP in general is the right fit for you or not.  There are times I've seen that someones image of CAP isn't really how it was in reality.  You get a overview of the squadron by attending more than one meeting.

18 is the cut off age for O-Flights, however starting at 18 you can begin training as an aircrew member (eg Mission Scanner and Mission Observer) so opportunities still exist after 18.

[Woodsy]

The cutoff for cadet O-flights is 18.

I don't understand how he can definitively say that there will be delay in O-flight funding in the new fiscal year. Yes, it has happened in the past, but  there is no certainty that it will happen again, or when the funding will be cut loose, if there is a delay.

I believe in this particular situation it is a airframe relocation issue, not a funding issue. 

[SarDragon]

Got it. BTDT.