I've been in CAP for 10 years both as a cadet and senior member. Overall I really like the organization's mission and intent, although there are the usual frustrations with certain types of people.

Per CAP regs primary flight training is for cadets only. Senior members may flight train in CAP aircraft only toward advanced ratings and two members of my squadron are doing just that (instrument). I attended a Wing flight encampment when I was 16 and soloed. I continued to train as a CAP cadet until my volunteer instructor (a CAL 777 FO) injured his leg playing sports. I finished through a civilian school.

CAP's congressionally assigned missions are the cadet program, emergency service, homeland security assistance, and aerospace education. For senior members we have our own objectives: running the cadet program, professional leadership development, and qualification in emergency services. As for membership unfortunately many of them are silver haired, but we do have alot "normal" aged folks and younger guys like me (23).

Once I have my medical back I plan to finish commercial and CFI in the CAP aircraft. Qualified members can use the aircraft on "pilot proficiency" flights at $70/hr for a high end C172 (dual VOR, DME, ADF, GPS, everything works). I'm planning to be a CFI specifically to help CAP and especially get cadets in the air.

My unit makes a strong effort to give the cadets the best overall program possible. We also do alot more than flying. Emergency services encompasses air, ground, and mission management. Just yesterday we did a great plane crash scenario with the local fire/police/ems/oem. Our cadets also do model rocketry and orientation flights on military aircraft. We're probably one of the top squadrons in the state.

Overall I've had some amazing (and amazingly bad) experiences in CAP. I've met incredible people and total a$$es. I'll probably be in for life.