HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Two members of the Hanscom workforce, both former cadets with the Civil Air Patrol, are using skills and knowledge gained from their time in the program to succeed in their military careers.
The Civil Air Patrol, or CAP, is a congressionally chartered, federally funded nonprofit corporation that serves as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.
“CAP cadets learn how to wear and care for the Air Force uniform, they learn about drill and ceremonies,” said Maj. Francis Condon, individual mobilization augmentee to the Acquisition Intelligence Division chief. “Being a cadet provided me with a step up on my public speaking and briefing skills.”
The program provides mission-capable aircraft, a national small unmanned aircraft systems fleet, specialized communications networks, imaging capabilities, and a cost-effective force of trained volunteers for its missions.
Condon said his experience with CAP prepared him for any career path, not just military service.
“It prepared and motivated me to join the Air Force,” said Capt. Jacob Hawkins, Acquisition Intelligence Division chief. “CAP did a good job of embedding the Air Force culture and encouraging me to serve.”
Hawkins added that in addition to motivating him to earn a commission with the Air Force, CAP gave him the opportunity to learn more about flying and to eventually obtain his pilot’s license.
Hawkins and Condon are both recipients of the Civil Air Patrol’s General Carl A. Spaatz Award, the organization’s highest cadet honor.
The award is presented to cadets who demonstrate excellence in leadership, fitness, character, and aerospace education, according to the CAP website.
Since its creation in December 1941, only 2,280 cadets nationwide have received the award.
“Even if you don’t plan to serve in the military, you learn so much about yourself,” said Condon. “How to work as a team, coping skills, self-discipline, problem solving, resource management and so much more.”
Hanscom AFB is home to the Hanscom Composite Squadron MA-043.
CAP offers unique professional and personal development opportunities and opportunities to serve the local community.
Adult CAP volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds, with opportunities to serve in specialties such as communications, emergency services, finance, logistics, marketing and more.
According to the CAP Massachusetts Wing website, youth ages 12 to 18 may join Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program.
Cadets learn about aviation and develop leadership and teamwork skills.