What is East Bay Cadet Squadron 18?
Squadron 18 is a local youth unit of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), Auxiliary of the US Air Force. During World War II, CAP airplanes patrolled America's coastline. Today, CAP is mostly known for its disaster-relief, search-&-rescue, & Homeland security operations.

What is the Cadet Program?
The Cadet Program is one of the three missions of CAP. The program provides leadership training and leadership opportunity through aviation-related means. In addition, military discipline and military bearing are taught as part of being a cadet.

I am not interested in the military, so why should I join?
The Cadet Program is absolutely not intended to lead youth members toward joining the military. Cadets are taught universally-respected values such as honesty & integrity. In fact, many cadets go on to college & pursue civilian careers.

Will I learn how to fly?
Complete pilot training is not a normal part of the program. However, glider schools and other piloting schools are offered to advance cadets at the national-level. At the local-level, orientation flights are more common.

How can I join as a cadet?
First, you must be between 12 to 18 years-old (you can stay as a cadet until 21). Second, see if Squadron 18 is the closest CAP unit. Next, visit a weekly Tuesday night meeting from 7:00pm to 9:15pm. Check our online calendar before coming.

Where is Squadron 18 located?
Squadron 18 is located in an Air National Guard facility on the southern edge of Hayward Municipal Airport (map). Squadron 18 is on government property, therefore, visitors must park their cars outside-i.e. in the Jack-in-the-Box across the street.

How much time would I need to give as a cadet?
Cadets attend once-a-week Tuesday night squadron meetings from 7:00pm to 9:15pm (except on holidays). State & nation-wide activities are held throughout the year, and cadets apply as participants or staff if they want to go.

How much does it cost to join as a cadet?
Cadet applicants pay an initial cost of $58.00, and then a yearly membership fee of $58.00. Cadets should have a utility uniform (BDUs) and a more formal uniform (Blues). A complete set of brand-new uniforms can cost up to $200.00.

Who sells CAP uniforms and other required accessories?
Military base stores & local army-&-navy stores sell USAF-style uniforms. A few places sell complete CAP uniform items including CAP badges and patches, such as at: http://www.vanguardmil.com/store/

How can I join as an adult member?
Adult members of CAP are called "senior members." The senior members of Squadron 18 are primarily there to support the cadets. To join as an adult, please visit during a Tuesday night meeting. Make sure to check our online calendar before coming.

I have more questions about CAP.
Please go to our online contacts page and email any Squadron 18 senior member staff with your question. If you want to explore more about CAP online, there are websites at the national, regional, state, and group level as well.