I've seen several references to members of state legislative squadrons and congressional members as "honorary members".
CAPR39-2 sort of confuses the issue as it has specific membership categories for Congressional members, State Legislative Members, and Honorary Members.
From what I can figure out, both Congressional and State Legislative members are "real" members, however they are given "honorary" ranks.
Actual "Honorary Members" are not really considered any sort of member of CAP at all and can't participate in any CAP activities (as can Congressional and State Legislative members on a limited basis).
HOWEVER, you can give "Honorary Membership" to members of Congress, Governors, etc., but they don't get any sort of rank. To get the honorary rank you have to join the Congressional or State Legislative squadron.
Make sense to you? Just thought I'd bring up the distinction for our PA-minded folks for hte next time they make an announcement of something like this.
Not sure what to do with the FL squadron that made a python an honorary member and gave it the rank of Lt. (http://www.marconews.com/news/2008/apr/03/8-foot-burmese-python-rescued-marco-airport-hangar/)
Quote7-2. Congressional Members. Members of the United States Congress and federally appointed officials are eligible to become Congressional Members of Civil Air Patrol. These members do not pay membership dues or submit fingerprint cards. Wing commanders wishing to induct members into the Congressional Squadron should contact the General Counsel's office at National Headquarters first. A framed membership certificate is available from National Headquarters for presentation to the individual. These members are authorized to fly in CAP aircraft, visit CAP unit meetings/social events and receive the honorary grade of lieutenant colonel.
Quote7-3. State Legislative Members. Membership in this category is open to state legislators and elected state officials as well as key staff members. Membership dues and fingerprint cards are waived. A CAPF 12 is required and should be submitted to National Headquarters/LMMR. The charter number for all state legislative squadrons is the wing identifier plus 999 (XX999). Membership cards are issued by calendar year (December) and reviewed and validated annually by the wing commander prior to issuance of new cards. These members are authorized to fly in CAP aircraft, visit CAP unit meetings/social events upon invitation and receive the honorary grade of major.
Quote7-7. Honorary Members. Honorary membership is a term of reference, not a category of membership. It is an effective means by which to enhance the image of CAP by associating the Corporation with outstanding citizens. Individuals in this category are members in name only. They do not participate in CAP activities, pay dues, or enjoy the privileges reserved for active CAP members. Honorary membership is limited to distinguished citizens such as members of Congress, state governors, mayors of large communities, high-ranking military officers, etc., and is used as a public relations medium rather than a token of appreciation. A certificate of appreciation would more appropriately recognize citizens of lesser community stature who support CAP.
(Honorary Membership has to be approved by NHQ).
FYI, President Eisenhower and film director Cecil B. De Mille apparently were honorary CAP members.
I believe that Col. Hodgkins was also given honorary membership at the winter board. I might be wrong though, anyone no for sure if thats true?
Quote from: notaNCO forever on August 27, 2009, 12:21:02 PM
I believe that Col. Hodgkins was also given honorary membership at the winter board. I might be wrong though, anyone no for sure if thats true?
The Commander CAP-USAF and former National commanders (and their spouses)are routinely given Life memberships upon completion of their tours of duty.
If someone is a CAP member who is later elected to office and joins a congressional or legislative unit, and thereby is given the 'honorary' grade of Major or Lieutenant Colonel, how does this impact their non-honorary CAP grade and can they advance beyond that honorary grade?
Also, after their term is up, do they return to their non-honorary grade or do they simply stay at that grade, and do they return to a normal unit after their term is up, or do they stay in the congressional/legislative unit?
Quote from: DBlair on August 29, 2009, 07:39:34 PM
If someone is a CAP member who is later elected to office and joins a congressional or legislative unit, and thereby is given the 'honorary' grade of Major or Lieutenant Colonel, how does this impact their non-honorary CAP grade and can they advance beyond that honorary grade?
Also, after their term is up, do they return to their non-honorary grade or do they simply stay at that grade, and do they return to a normal unit after their term is up, or do they stay in the congressional/legislative unit?
I can't possibly imagine why anyone, including the effected member, would care.
Quote from: Eclipse on August 29, 2009, 07:52:47 PM
Quote from: DBlair on August 29, 2009, 07:39:34 PM
If someone is a CAP member who is later elected to office and joins a congressional or legislative unit, and thereby is given the 'honorary' grade of Major or Lieutenant Colonel, how does this impact their non-honorary CAP grade and can they advance beyond that honorary grade?
Also, after their term is up, do they return to their non-honorary grade or do they simply stay at that grade, and do they return to a normal unit after their term is up, or do they stay in the congressional/legislative unit?
I can't possibly imagine why anyone, including the effected member, would care.
lol Good point.
I was just curious how it all worked as these congressional/legislative member issues aren't all that common to run across.