Cadets prepare to do an F.O.D. walk (Foreign Object or Debris Walk) at the Airport.
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was founded in 1941 and was established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later. CAP was chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
The local Hot Springs 40th Composite Squadron, the Flying Tigers, carry on this proud tradition of service. CAP cadets (members younger than 18) get many opportunities for hands-on learning by doing a myriad of activities from search and rescue exercises using actual radio communications equipment to orientation flights which allow them to get a real-life flight experience where they get a chance to take the controls of the plane in the air.
Cadets also get the opportunity to attend various encampments and there are scholarships for flight school as well as programs dedicated to helping earn a private pilot’s license at little or no cost to the cadet or their family.
If you’re interested in learning what CAP is all about the Flying Tigers 40th Composite Squadron meets every Tuesday at 7 PM at the Hot Springs Memorial Airport. If you’re interested in finding out more check out CAP’s official website at gocivilairpatrol.org or email for more info at hotspringsflyingtigers@gmail.com.
