Civil Air Patrol

Civil Air Patrol ...perfoming missions for America

Founded in December 1941, just one week before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Civil Air Patrol operates as an all-volunteer civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Organized with over 65,000 members nationwide in 52 wings (each of the 50 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia), the CAP is charged with a mission to "serve America by developing our Nation's youth; performing local, state, and national missions; and informing our citizens about the importance of aerospace education."

With roughly 50% of the Civil Air Patrol membership made up of Cadets 12-18 years old, participation in the Wreaths Across America program is seen as an opportunity for cadets to learn and integrate more about our Nation's past history, current events, and future. Many officers of Civil Air Patrol are veterans themselves, and are honored to participate in this remembrance project.

Over the last 5 years, members of the Maine Wing have participated in the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Cadets raise money through-out the year to make the long trek down to Washington D.C. in December. Activities have included assitance with the Maine State Society and other volunteers in laying wreaths at designated sections of the Cemetery, as well as being involved in the special ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Volunteering muscle and helping hands, the Cadets help dispense the wreaths to the many volunteers and supporters who gather each year to particpate.

In 2006, Wreaths Across America will involve Cadets from all 52 Wings in special ceremonies at each of the over 230 State and National Cemeteries and Veterans Monuments arond the country.

If you are interested in donating to support the Civil Air Patrol and its involvement in the Wreaths Across America program, please contact us for more information.

For more information about the Civil Air Patrol - its missions, members, and programs, click on this link to visit the official site of the National Organization.