One Line
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, non-profit corporation auxiliary of the United States Air Force, offering aviation-related activities, search and rescue operations, and a youth program with accelerated promotions and entry into the USAF.
Key Points
- The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation auxiliary of the United States Air Force.
- CAP has five congressionally mandated missions, condensed into three core program areas: aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services.
- Membership is open to all US citizens and legal permanent residents aged 18 and over, and to those aged 12-18 who maintain satisfactory school progress.
- CAP assists federal, state and local agencies in preparing for and responding to homeland security needs, is credited with saving an average of 100 lives per year in search and rescue operations, and has provided significant assistance in disaster relief operations.
- CAP has a motto, "Semper Vigilans," meaning "Always Vigilant," and core values of integrity, volunteer service, excellence and respect.
- In 2021, CAP was honored with The Master's Trophy North America Region for its search and rescue operations, and in 2018, a new NCO Corps structure was announced.
Summaries
141 word summary
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, non-profit corporation auxiliary of the United States Air Force founded in 1941. It has 56,000 members and provides aviation-related education, activities and drills. In 2021, the organization was honored with The Master's Trophy North America Region for its search and rescue operations. It is credited with saving an average of 100 lives per year and provides significant assistance in disaster relief operations. It also assists federal, state, and local agencies in preparing for and responding to homeland security needs. CAP has access to resources such as radios and the ARCHER HSI System to aid in its missions. Its Cadet Program is a youth organization with a rank structure similar to the US Air Force that offers accelerated promotions for those enrolled in JROTC and entry into USAF as an E-3 upon enlistment.
385 word summary
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a volunteer organization established in 1941 and sponsored by the U.S. Air Force. It provides support to civil authorities, has a membership of over 61,000, and is subject to regulations laid out in 10 USC Chapter 909. CAP has access to resources such as radios and the ARCHER HSI System to aid in its missions. In 2021, CAP was honored with The Master's Trophy North America Region for its search and rescue operations. Members wear the same uniforms as active duty, guard, and reserve members with distinctive emblems, insignia, and badges.
The CAP Cadet Program is a youth organization with a rank structure similar to the US Air Force. Cadets progress through the program by completing four phases divided into several achievements. Achievements generally correspond to grade promotions, while phases are tied to levels of responsibility. To complete an achievement, a cadet must pass physical fitness and two written tests. Benefits include accelerated promotions for those enrolled in JROTC and entry into USAF as an E-3 upon enlistment. Milestone awards include Spaatz, Eaker, Earhart, Mitchell, and Wright Brothers Ribbons. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Founded in 1941, it has 56,000 members and provides aviation-related education, activities and drills. Its motto is "Semper Vigilans," meaning "Always Vigilant," and its core values are integrity, volunteer service, excellence and respect.
The organization has three main programs: Cadet, Aerospace Education and Emergency Services. Cadets are aged 12-21 and Senior Members 18+. Major General Carr unveiled plans to restructure the CAP NCO program to provide former military personnel with a professional development and promotion pathway. CAP assists federal, state and local agencies in preparing for and responding to homeland security needs, is credited with saving an average of 100 lives per year in search and rescue operations, and has provided significant assistance in disaster relief operations.
In 2011, CAP was awarded the Roving Ambassador of Peace by the World Peace Prize Awarding Council, and was recognized by the 113th United States Congress. In October 2021, CAP was awarded the Master's Trophy for the North America Region for that year, and Congress voted to pass a bill that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to its World War II members.
1060 word summary
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Founded in 1941, it is a volunteer organization with 56,000 members, 560 light aircraft, and over 1000 ground vehicles. CAP members are divided into two groups: Cadets (ages 12-21) and Senior Members (ages 18+), and have access to professional resources such as textbooks and lesson plans. The organization is headed by the National Headquarters and has three main programs: Cadet, Aerospace Education and Emergency Services.
In 2011, CAP was awarded the Roving Ambassador of Peace by the World Peace Prize Awarding Council, and was recognized by the 113th United States Congress. During World War II, CAP flew 24 million miles, sighted 173 enemy U-boats, and dropped 82 bombs and depth charges. It was co-founded by aviation advocate Gill Robb Wilson and Texas oilman David Harold Byrd. The volunteer leadership of the CAP consists of the National Commander of the Civil Air Patrol and their staff. In October 2021, CAP was awarded the Master's Trophy for the North America Region for that year, and Congress voted to pass a bill that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to its World War II members. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a civilian organization with a chain of command and rank system patterned on the U.S. Air Force. It is governed by a board of governors, led by an executive director, and has eight geographic regions and a handful of overseas squadrons. Each region encompasses several statewide wings, each with a commander who is also a CAP colonel.
CAP squadrons are designated as cadet, senior, or composite, and the lowest level of organization is the flight, which is a semi-independent unit composed of up to 14 members. CAP has five congressionally mandated missions, condensed into three core program areas: aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services.
CAP assists federal, state and local agencies in preparing for and responding to homeland security needs, is credited with saving an average of 100 lives per year in search and rescue operations, and has provided significant assistance in disaster relief operations. CAP aircraft are also used in training exercises to prepare USAF pilots and to intercept enemy aircraft, and have assisted in drug-trafficking and other illegal activities. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Membership is open to all US citizens and legal permanent residents aged 18 and over, and to those aged 12-18 who maintain satisfactory school progress. CAP provides aviation-related education, activities and drills for members, including FAA ratings and SAR exercises. It also works with other groups such as 4-H, Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the USA.
CAP has a motto, "Semper Vigilans," meaning "Always Vigilant," and core values of integrity, volunteer service, excellence and respect. Major General Carr unveiled plans to restructure the CAP NCO program to allow individuals to "enlist" as NCOs and progress through a professional development program. Former military enlisted personnel who join CAP are provided with a professional development and promotion pathway, and awards are available to recognize members who have dedicated themselves to leadership and personal development in the CAP.
Cadets in the CAP program wear modified US Air Force uniforms, hold rank and grade, and practice military customs and courtesies. They are tested on their knowledge of leadership standards and physical fitness. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Program is a youth organization with a rank structure similar to the United States Air Force. Cadets progress through the program, gaining additional responsibility and leadership roles, by completing four phases divided into several achievements. Achievements generally correspond to grade promotions, while phases are tied to levels of responsibility. To complete an achievement, a cadet must pass physical fitness and two written tests.
The core cadet activity is the summer encampment, typically a 7-10 day event. Cadets engage in physical and mental activities, such as classes and drill, and those over 18 can take part in military orientation flights. Benefits include accelerated promotions for those enrolled in JROTC and entry into USAF as an E-3 upon enlistment. Milestone awards include Spaatz, Eaker, Earhart, Mitchell, and Wright Brothers Ribbons.
CAP members are expected to render military courtesies to one another, but not to US military members. Officers of the grade of second lieutenant and above may wear the “U.S.” collar insignia as part of their uniform. CAP members are not subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, but may be used by the Department of the Air Force to fulfill non-combat programs and missions. CAP is the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary, and members wear the same uniforms as active duty, guard, and reserve members with distinctive emblems, insignia, and badges to identify them. CAP operates a fleet of Cessna 182 Skylane, Cessna 172 Skyhawk, and GippsAero GA8 Airvan aircraft, ground vehicles, and a national radio communications network. Members are reimbursed for fuel, oil and communications costs on USAF-assigned emergency services missions. Little L-Per is a hand-held radio direction finder used by ground teams to search for downed aircraft. The ARCHER imaging system is mounted on the GA8 Airvan to examine the surface of the Earth and find suspected crash sites. A number of states have legislation in place to help transfer surplus equipment to CAP. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a non-profit corporation established by the US Congress in 1941. It provides support to civil authorities and has a membership of over 61,000. CAP is subject to regulations laid out in 10 USC Chapter 909 and offers education and training programs for both cadets and senior members. It is also involved in aerial search activity in inland areas. In 2021, CAP was honored with The Master's Trophy North America Region for its search and rescue operations, and in 2018, a new NCO Corps structure was announced. CAP has extended its fleet life by 10 years and has several historical resources, such as the Spaatz Association, Civil Air Patrol Historical Foundation, National Museum, and National History Program. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a volunteer organization founded in 1941 and sponsored by the U.S. Air Force. It has a variety of missions, such as homeland security, disaster assessment, and drug interdiction. CAP has access to resources such as radios and the ARCHER HSI System to aid in its missions.
3070 word summary
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a volunteer organization with a variety of missions, including homeland security, disaster assessment, drug interdiction, and others. It was founded in 1941 and is sponsored by the United States Air Force. CAP has various resources and tools, such as radios and the ARCHER HSI System, which are used for its missions.
The organization also has several historical resources, such as the Spaatz Association, Civil Air Patrol Historical Foundation and National Museum, Civil Air Patrol National History Program, and Civil Air Patrol 2021 Fact Sheet.
CAP has extended its fleet life by 10 years and is expanding with the support of the Government Accountability Office.
Various external resources are available on its website, including information on its privacy policy, developers, terms of use, disclaimers, and more. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was added to the United States Air Force's Total Force in 2015. The CAP is governed by the Air Combat Command and is subject to regulations laid out in 10 USC Chapter 909. The CAP offers education and training programs for cadets and senior members, which include Levels I-V for cadets and the Senior Member Education & Training Program for senior members. There is also a Non-Commissioned Officer Program for cadets. In 2018, a new NCO Corps structure was announced for the CAP. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Established in 1941, it was given operational mission activities in 2002, following the attacks of September 11 and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security. CAP has a uniform manual, core values, motto, and membership of over 61,000. It also has a cadet program and provides support to civil authorities. CAP conducts three-fourths of all aerial search activity in the inland area. On 27 April 2008 the United States Air Force officially recognized the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) as an official partner. CAP's three primary missions are aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services. It is organized as a non-profit corporation chartered by Congress and headquarters in Maxwell AFB. Its Board of Governors is composed of 11 members appointed by the Secretary of the Air Force.
In 2021, CAP was honored with The Master's Trophy North America Region by The Honourable Company of Air Pilots for its search and rescue operations. In 2011, CAP was awarded the World Peace Prize for its assistance in disaster relief.
CAP's wartime claims were placed under scrutiny in 2018 and it was found that CAP had not damaged or destroyed any submarines during the war. However, on 3 December 2010, CAP was honored by the U.S. Government Printing Office for its contributions to the war effort. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a non-profit corporation established by Public Law 79-476. It receives its funding from four main sources: member dues, corporate donations, Congressional appropriations, and private donations. CAP has few paid positions, with most located at National Headquarters, although some wings have paid staff. Squadron and group financial support comes from donations and fundraising, with some units charging their own membership dues. A portion of funds come from fundraisers, where cadets who sell the most tickets receive 50% of the proceeds.
To equip ground teams, a standardized list is provided by the national command, with many teams modifying the list to match the needs of the mission. This equipment includes flashlights, signal mirrors, tactical vests, safety vests, and food that will last 24 hours. For intensive mountain search and rescue, packs provide for up to 72 hours of operational supplies and tools.
A number of states have legislation in place to help transfer surplus equipment to Civil Air Patrol, such as Alaska Wing's program for transferring aircraft to the CAP. Texas considers CAP a state agency and legally allows it to acquire surplus or salvage property. Little L-Per is a hand-held radio direction finder used by ground teams to search for downed aircraft. CAP owns over 1,000 vehicles and assigns them to units for use in the organization's missions. CAP also has a fleet of aircraft, including the GA8 Airvan, Cessna 182s, SGS 2-33, ASK 21, L-23 Super Blank, and Maule MT-235. The ARCHER imaging system, mounted aboard the GA8 Airvan, uses visible and near-infrared light to examine the surface of the Earth and find suspected crash sites.
CAP operates a national radio network of VHF (FM) radio, (SSB) and HF repeaters under NTIA specifications. Senior members conduct HF radio nets when working with other agencies or on encrypted networks. CAP units are allowed to use radio during national or regional emergencies when existing telephone and Internet communications infrastructure is not available. Members who use their own vehicles are reimbursed for fuel, oil and communications costs during a USAF-assigned emergency services mission. Civil Air Patrol operates and maintains a fleet of predominantly Cessna 182 Skylane, Cessna 172 Skyhawk, and GippsAero GA8 Airvan aircraft, ground vehicles, and a national radio communications network. They have six different types of uniforms: Corporate Working Uniform, Corporate Flight Duty Uniform, CAP Field Uniform, Flight Duty Uniform (FDU), Airman Battle Uniform (ABU), Aviator Shirt Uniform, Corporate Service Dress Uniform, Blue Service Uniform (Class B), and Service Dress Uniform (Class A). Choice of which combination to wear depends on the commander's direction and the type of event. The Corporate Working Uniform may be worn in a flying, field or mission setting when the USAF-style Class B or Aviator Shirt Uniform would be worn. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is the United States Air Force Auxiliary and is included in the USAF's definition of the "total force". CAP members wear the same uniforms as active duty, guard, and reserve members, but with distinctive emblems, insignia, and badges to identify them as CAP members. The uniforms are categorized in CAP's uniform manual by the environment in which they are to be worn or the work to be accomplished. The corporate-style uniforms may be worn by all senior members and cadets over age 18 who do not meet height and weight standards set for the USAF-style uniform. The USAF-style uniform may be worn by all cadets under age 18 and by cadets over age 18 and senior members who meet the height and weight standards.
CAP uniforms provide a positive public image, build morale, and enhance the professionalism of the organization's membership. When CAP resources are engaged in a mission, they are reimbursed by the Air Force for communications expenses, fuel and oil, and a share of aircraft maintenance expenses. In addition, CAP members are covered by the Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) in the event of injury while participating in the mission. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members are expected to render military courtesies to one another, but not to members of the US military. CAP officers of the grade of second lieutenant and above may wear the “U.S.” collar insignia as part of their dress blue uniform. CAP members are not subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, but may be used by the Department of the Air Force to fulfill non-combat programs and missions.
Cadets in the CAP Cadet Program must recite an oath and participate in a variety of training programs. These include Region Cadet Leadership Schools (RCLS), Cadet Non-Commissioned Officer Schools and Academies, and National Blue Beret. Encampments are usually held at wing (state) or military installations. CAP members are also eligible for Aerospace Education Member (AEM) books, kits, and student materials, and may participate in free Teacher Orientation Program flights. Civil Air Patrol's core cadet activity is the summer encampment; typically a 7-10 day event. Cadets engage in physically and mentally demanding tasks, classes (aerospace education, USAF organization, cadet programs & drug demand reduction), physical training, leadership development & drill & ceremonies. Cadets over 18 can take part in military orientation flights, including transport aircraft like C-17 Globemaster III and C-130 Hercules. Those under 18 can take 10 orientation flights in CAP aircraft. After completion of Senior Member training, cadets are eligible for promotion to 2nd Lt (Mitchell Award), 1st Lt (Earhart Award) or Capt (Spaatz Award). Those transferring between 18-20 are eligible for Flight Officer (Mitchell Award), Technical Flight Officer (Earhart Award) or Senior Flight Officer (Spaatz Award). Benefits include accelerated promotions for those enrolled in JROTC and entry into USAF as an Airman First Class (E-3) upon enlistment. Milestone awards include Spaatz, Eaker, Earhart, Mitchell, Wright Brothers Ribbons. Cadets with the Earhart Award & over 17 can be selected for International Air Cadet Exchange. The first Spaatz Award was given to Cadet Douglas Roach in 1964; as of July 2021, 2,343 had been earned. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Program is composed of four phases, each divided into several achievements. Achievements generally correspond to grade promotions, while phases are tied to levels of responsibility. To complete an achievement, a cadet must pass a physical fitness test and two written tests (one for leadership and one for aerospace education). The only exceptions are the promotions to cadet airman and cadet staff sergeant, which have no aerospace test. The current program was designed by John V. "Jack" Sorenson in the 1960s.
Cadets progress through the program, gaining additional responsibility and leadership roles within their units. They may complete paperwork, command other cadets, and teach at meetings and activities. They may also be involved in planning events and may command encampments.
The U.S. Congress stated in the Recruiting, Retention, and Reservist Promotion Act of 2000 that CAP and similar programs provide significant benefits for the Armed Forces. The rank structure is similar to the United States Air Force, with cadets starting as a cadet airman basic and being promoted as they complete each achievement. To achieve the rank of CAP cadet second lieutenant, a cadet must be promoted through every CAP cadet enlisted grade. Civil Air Patrol's cadet program is a traditional military-style program with almost 28,000 cadets nationwide. Cadets wear modified versions of United States Air Force uniforms, hold rank and grade, and practice military customs and courtesies. They are tested on their knowledge of leadership standards and physical fitness.
CAP also has a Senior Member Professional Development Program which consists of five levels from Second Lieutenant to Lieutenant Colonel. These levels include components of leadership training, corporate familiarization, aerospace education and professional development within chosen Specialty Tracks such as Finance, Emergency Services, Administration, Legal, Public Affairs and Cadet Programs.
Former military enlisted personnel who join CAP are provided with a professional development and promotion pathway. Additionally, senior members with specific civilian professional qualifications may be awarded grades on the basis of their professional qualifications. CAP also offers awards to recognize those members who have dedicated themselves to leadership and personal development in the CAP. Major General Carr of the Civil Air Patrol unveiled plans to restructure the CAP NCO program to allow individuals to "enlist" as NCOs and progress through a professional development program. This design mirrors the Air Force NCO force structure, with an established process to promote and develop NCOs. Senior members may be promoted to CAP grades E-5 through E-9 after completing Level 2, Part one of Senior Member training. Officer grades up to colonel are available, with higher ranks attainable upon appointment as a Region or Wing Commander. The only physical requirements senior members must follow are weight and grooming standards for U.S. Air Force-style uniforms.
CAP also has a motto, "Semper Vigilans," meaning "Always Vigilant," and core values of integrity, volunteer service, excellence and respect. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Membership is open to all US citizens and legal permanent residents aged 18 and over who can pass an FBI background check. Membership is also available to those aged 12-18 who maintain satisfactory progress in school as determined by their unit commander. Senior members are responsible for paying annual membership fees and must pay for their uniforms and other related expenses. As of February 2022, CAP had 56,438 members, 33,165 senior members and 23,273 cadets.
CAP's goal is to "encourage and foster civil aviation in local communities" and they do this through outreach programs and the National Congress on Aviation and Space Education. The organization also works with other groups such as 4-H, Boy Scouts of America, and Girl Scouts of the USA.
CAP provides aviation-related education and activities for members, including formal courses about aviation and space exploration, the Aerospace Education Program for Senior Members, and National Cadet Special Activities. CAP pilots can improve their flying skills and earn Federal Aviation Administration ratings. CAP also regularly drills for emergencies through Search and Rescue exercises and assists the Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Coast Guard in airlift and communications for disaster relief operations. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) assists federal, state and local agencies in preparing for and responding to homeland security needs. CAP aircraft are frequently requested to transport vital supplies, such as medical technicians, medication, and other supplies. CAP is credited with saving an average of 100 lives per year in search and rescue operations. In addition, CAP aircraft are used in training exercises to prepare USAF pilots to intercept enemy aircraft over the Continental United States. CAP also assists in drug-trafficking and other illegal activities, leading to the confiscation of illegal substances valued at over US$400 million. Finally, CAP has provided significant assistance in disaster relief operations, especially in areas struck by hurricanes and tornadoes. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has five congressionally mandated missions: to assist the Department of the Air Force in fulfilling its non-combat programs and missions; to provide an organization of private citizens with adequate facilities to assist in meeting local and national emergencies; to encourage and foster civil aviation in local communities; to provide aviation education and training especially to its senior and cadet members; and to provide an organization to encourage and aid citizens of the United States in contributing their efforts, services, and resources in developing aviation and in maintaining air supremacy. CAP condenses these mandates into three core program areas: aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services. The lowest level of organization is the flight, which is a semi-independent unit composed of up to 14 members. Flights are usually formed in remote areas in which there are too few CAP personnel to form a squadron. Overseas squadrons operate independently of this structure, reporting directly to the National Headquarters. CAP squadrons are designated as cadet, senior, or composite, and are the main functioning bodies and primary operational commands in the CAP. A composite squadron includes both cadets and seniors, while a senior squadron consists of only seniors and a cadet squadron is made up of mostly cadets.
At a level below the national headquarters, there are eight geographic regions and a handful of overseas squadrons. Each region, commanded by a CAP colonel, encompasses several statewide wings, each with a commander who is also a CAP colonel. The U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico each have one wing. As of August 2019, the commander of CAP-USAF is Colonel Mark A. Wootan, USAF. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a civilian organization organized along military lines, with a chain of command and rank system patterned on that of the U.S. Air Force. It is governed by a board of governors consisting of 11 members, including four CAP members, four U.S. Air Force representatives, and three members from the aviation community. National Headquarters, located outside Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama, employs a professional staff of over 100 and is led by the CAP executive director.
The volunteer leadership of the CAP consists of the National Commander of the Civil Air Patrol, national vice commander, chief of staff, national legal officer, comptroller, chaplain, inspector general and their staff. CAP is structured into regions, wings, group, squadrons, flights, and echelons. In October 2021, CAP was awarded the Master's Trophy for the North America Region for that year by the Honourable Company of Air Pilots in recognition of their military service and exemplary record during World War II. Congress also voted to pass a bill that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of Civil Air Patrol. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was established in 1941 by Fiorello H. LaGuardia, Director of the Office of Civilian Defense. It was created as an auxiliary of the United States Air Force (USAF) to supplement America's military operations. CAP was co-founded by aviation advocate Gill Robb Wilson and Texas oilman David Harold Byrd.
CAP's three congressionally mandated missions are aerospace education, emergency services, and its cadet program. During World War II, CAP flew 24 million miles, sighted 173 enemy U-boats, and dropped 82 bombs and depth charges. 68 CAP members lost their lives in the line of duty.
In 2011, CAP was awarded the Roving Ambassador of Peace by the World Peace Prize Awarding Council for its positive impact in American communities, its lifesaving efforts, and for "preserving liberty for all". It has also been recognized by the 113th United States Congress and both the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate.
Since its incorporation charter, CAP has maintained its relationship with the USAF, and has continued its three congressionally mandated missions. Its oversight has flowed from Air Education and Training Command (AETC) at the 4-star level, to Air University (AU) at the 3-star level, to AU's Jeanne M. Holm Center for Officer Accessions and Citizen Development at the 1-star level, to a subordinate unit of 1st Air Force at the 3-star level with Civil Air PatrolU.S. Air Force as a stand-alone unit lead at the Colonel (O-6) level. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Founded on December 1, 1941, it is a volunteer organization with 56,000 members, 560 light aircraft, and over 1000 ground vehicles. Members include people from all backgrounds and occupations, and have access to professional resources such as textbooks and lesson plans. The organization has three main programs: Cadet, Aerospace Education and Emergency Services. CAP members are divided into two groups: Cadets (ages 12-21) and Senior Members (ages 18+). Both are offered a variety of opportunities and activities including orientation flights, disaster relief and search and rescue. The organization is headed by the National Headquarters, followed by eight regional commands and 52 wings. The current National Commander is Maj Gen Edward D. Phelka.