Civil Air Patrol - Maui County Composite Squadron

Civilian United States Air Force Auxiliary

Maui's Civil Air Patrol Squadron has been serving our local community for over 50 years and we are called upon by FEMA, HIMA, and MEMA to conduct Search and Rescue Operations and Disaster Assessments for emergencies here on Maui. You don't have to want to be a pilot to be a member of Civil Air Patrol as we have training and positions in all facets of emergency services including communications, aerial photography, aerial spotters, ground search and rescue teams, FEMA National Incident Management System training, and more. We also welcome those with aerospace education interests and those interested in supporting our cadet programs.

The Civil Air Patrol has changed over the years from a military defense program to the Civilian 501c3 non-profit of today. The origins of Civil Air Patrol date to 1936, but it was December 1, 1941 when Civil Air Patrol was approved by the Commerce, Navy, and War departments. CAP's task with coastal patrol in WW II was so successful in thwarting submarine attacks and safeguarded shipping lanes that in 1943, President Roosevelt transferred CAP to the Department of War. In 1946, President Truman incorporated the organization and in 1948, President Truman established CAP as the Air Force's civilian auxiliary. In 1975, a civilian volunteer became CAP's national commander signaling a shift in the CAP-Air Force relationship. But it was the terrorist attacks of 9/11 that ushered CAP into a new era of homeland defense. It was a CAP Cessna 172, the only nonmilitary aircraft allowed in the nation's airspace, that provided emergency management officials the first high-resolution images of the WTC site the day after the attacks. CAP volunteers transported blood and medical supplies and provided communications and transportation support and assisted state and federal officials. This encouraged officials to increase federal funding providing CAP with state of the art equipment to help in future disasters.

It is with this history that today CAP is tasked with helping FEMA, Homeland Security, and Air Force missions through it's all-volunteer force of dedicated individuals. We help provide support for emergency service missions and our dedicated communications network of repeaters and base stations throughout Hawaii provide a crucial backup central incident command center for disasters that may come to our island. We are looking for like-minded individuals looking to help their community through our three primary missions: Emergency Services, Aerospace Education, and Cadet Programs.

Aerospace Education, Cadet Programs & Emergency Services

Civil Air Patrol is America’s premier public service organization for carrying out emergency services and disaster relief missions nationwide. As the auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, CAP’s vigilant citizen volunteers are there to search for and find the lost, provide comfort in times of disaster and work to keep the homeland safe.

Its 60,000 members selflessly devote their time, energy and expertise toward the well-being of their communities, while also promoting aviation and related fields through aerospace education and helping shape future leaders through CAP’s cadet program. “Supporting America's communities with emergency response, diverse aviation and ground services, youth development, and promotion of air, space and cyber power.”

Emergency Services

Always prepared, both in the air and on the ground, members of the Civil Air Patrol perform emergency services for state and local agencies as well as the federal government as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and for states/local communities as a nonprofit organization. Ever vigilant, these true patriots make a difference in their communities, not only to assist in times of disaster but also to search for the lost and protect the homeland.

Aerospace Education

Civil Air Patrol’s awarding-winning aerospace education program promotes aerospace, aviation and STEM-related careers with engaging, standards-based, hands-on curriculum and activities. It shapes the experiences and aspirations of youth both in and outside of CAP’s cadet program.

Cadet Programs

Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program transforms youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders through a curriculum that focuses on leadership, aerospace, fitness and character. As cadets participate in these four elements, they advance through a series of achievements, earning honors and increased responsibilities along the way. Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots, engineers and scientists first explored their careers through CAP.