Celebrating National Volunteer Month

April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate the impact volunteers have on our lives. I think you will agree with me that Civil Air Patrol's 56,000-plus citizen volunteers — truly a force for good — make it possible for CAP to serve America communities, save lives, and shape futures as the auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.

Even during a pandemic, CAP's volunteers rose to the occasion, many generously donating a part of their lives to do what was necessary to help get our nation back working again. We salute you during this National Volunteer Month observance and thank you for the outstanding examples you have set in the past 24 months to inspire others to serve.

In recognition of all your hard work this year, we encourage you to take a break from your CAP duties to spend time with your families during the upcoming Easter weekend.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to Civil Air Patrol.

Always Vigilant!

Maj. Gen. Edward D. Phelka

National Commander/CEO

Florida Wing, CAP Provides Sun 'n Fun Support

Senior members and cadets from the Florida Wing brought their aviation-related experience to support the 2022 Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida. Their work over the past two weeks included flight-line marshalling and taxiway duties, parking assistance, locating ELT signal sources on the field, helping with the hot-air balloon launch, and keeping buildings and hangars secure.

But it wasn't all work and no play for the volunteers. CAP members, especially cadets from the Florida Wing (top photo), took the time to visit vendor booths, attend seminars and hands-on workshops, and enjoy the air show (below).

Day of Service to Honor 'the Candy Bomber'

Celebration of life events are planned May 20-21 in the Provo, Utah, area for retired U.S. Air Force Col. Gail Halvorsen — “the Candy Bomber” who brought candy, comfort, and hope to deprived German children as “Uncle Wiggly Wings” during the 1948-1949 Berlin Airlift.

Halvorsen, one of the early CAP members whose service during World War II earned the organization the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014, died Feb. 16 at age 101.

CAP squadrons can celebrate Halvorsen’s life of service by carrying forward his message of attitude, gratitude, and service before self in his honor by participating in service activities in their local communities around these two days.

“My hope is that CAP units across the country are inspired by the story of Col. Halvorsen’s life and commitment to service by participating in an event in their local community,” said Maj. Gen. Edward D. Phelka, CAP national commander/CEO.

CAP squadrons can participate in two ways:

1. Hold a Day of Service in honor of Halverson’s life around the time of the celebration of life events May 20-21. Squadrons could highlight Halvorsen’s legacy of service through service projects, community programs, and learning opportunities for students in science, technology, education, math (STEM), and aviation education.
2. Collect food, blankets, and school supplies for Ukrainian refugee children and also write letters of encouragement to these children. Logistics are being finalized, and general details can be found here.

Please forward any photos or details of your service event to mac@capnhq.gov. Also, share your story or a memory of Halvorsen at mycapstory@gocivilairpatrol.org.

Textron Aviation returns as the title sponsor for CAP’s 2022 National Conference Aug. 25-27 in Louisville, Kentucky. Registration opens April 15.

More on Safety Information System in April 'Beacon'

This month’s Safety Beacon features an article by Maj. Robert Rivas, Psychological Safety in CAP’s Mishap Review Process. Rivas is the deputy commander and safety officer at the Illinois Wing's Group 2 Headquarters.

The Beacon, the online newsletter of CAP's Safety Program, also highlights some changes in the transition from the old Safety Information and Reporting System (SIRS) to the new CAP Safety Information System (CAPSIS).

Applications Sought for Pit Crew Chief, Members

National Headquarters is now accepting applications for an Innovation Pit Crew Chief and multiple Pit Crew Members. For details and to apply, please visit www.gocivilairpatrol.com/nationalstaff. 

“Holy Cow! History: Ding Dong! Seizing That 10 Seconds of Fame”

-Newsbreak.com

(Jacksonville, Ill.)

“Too Much Sun and Fun at SNF22? These Folks Have You Covered”

-FlyingMag.com

(Lakeland, Fla.)

Tweet of the Week @Civil Air Patrol

Insta Photo of the Week #Civil Air Patrol