SQUADRON LEADERSHIP SCHOOL Seminar 3.1

Squadrons: The Heart of CAP

AF Bases

CAP Units

Hometowns Across America

Objectives

Defend the idea that the squadron is the “heart” of CAP.

Explain how the squadron fits within CAP’s overall organizational structure

Describe the role of the following, as they relate to the squadron:

Wing HeadquartersNational HeadquartersCAP-USAF

Describe stories of successful squadron programs

The Three Main Types of Squadrons

CadetMinimum 3 seniorsMinimum 15 total

members

CompositeMinimum 3 seniorsMinimum 15 total

members2 deputy commanders

SeniorMinimum 15 members

Advantages:Focus on cadet mission

Smaller staff needed

Advantages:Focus on all missions

Something for everyone

Advantages:Focus on ES or AE

Smaller staff needed

Organizational Structure

What does CAP’s overall organizational structure look like?

Which echelons go where?

How are they connected?

Board ofGovernors

CAP National Headquarters

National CommanderCSAG/Command Council*

Headquarters, Air Education and Training

Command

Headquarters,

Air University

Headquarters,

CAP-USAF

Region Liaison Offices CAP Regions

CAP Wings

CAP Groups

CAP Squadrons

Secretary of the Air Force AFAB

Squadrons: Last But Not Least

* Advisory bodies to the National Commander

The Squadron / Wing Partnership

Participation in training activities

Maintain mission readiness

Support wing goals

Meet regulatory & accountability requirements

Develop a good reputation for CAP within the community

Provide training & lend squadrons staff expertise

Coordinate state-wide programs & manage key assets

Host special activities and events

Process financial & admin actions in a timely manner

Represent squadron interests to senior leaders

How Squadrons Help the Wing How the Wing Helps Squadrons

The Squadron / NHQ Partnership

Perform the missions of CAP

Recruit & retain members

Quick processing of awards, paperwork

Friendly customer service & staff expertise

Manage CAP-wide programs and publications

Represent members’ interests to the Air Force, the Congress, and other organizations

How Squadrons Help NHQ How NHQ Helps Squadrons

The Squadron / CAP-USAF Partnership

Perform the missions of CAP

Recruit & retain members

Represent the Air Force in hundreds of communities across America

Program leadership & oversight

Reserve Assistance Program (CAP-RAP)

Expertise

Liaison with local military units & federal agencies

Connect us to AF & DoD headquarters

Other Possibilities:

Partner with local Air Force or Air National Guard units.

Partner with local Air Force recruiters

How Squadrons Help the Air Force

How the CAP-USAF Helps Squadrons

Success Stories

How has your squadron been successful?

Why was your team able to succeed in that area?

Final Thought

CAP could function without a National Hq

CAP could function without regions

CAP could function without wings

CAP could function without groups

But CAP could not succeed without squadrons because that is where CAP accomplishes its mission!