A bipartisan resolution introduced by U.S. Rep. Richard Hanna (R-NY) recognizes the Civil Air Patrol’s critical support of defense and homeland security missions in light of the organization’s 75th anniversary.
The House resolution, which was co-sponsored by U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA), recognizes volunteers of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) who engaged in coast patrols, search and rescue missions, courier and cargo services, and air defense and pilot training during World War II.
“I am pleased to recognize the Civil Air Patrol for 75 years of exemplary service to our nation,” Hanna, a pilot and an honorary member of the Civil Air Patrol’s Legislative Squadron, said. “The men and women who lend their skills to CAP fulfill several critical missions that protect and defend the United States of America.”
CAP volunteers flew an estimated 24 million miles and reported more than 170 possible submarine sightings over an 18-month period during World War II.
“The Civil Air Patrol and its cadets have a distinguished history of answering the call to public service to provide key support missions, and I am thankful for their unwavering service to our nation,” Dent said. “In addition to selflessly serving as an auxiliary to the United States Air Force, the valiant men and women who volunteer for CAP also provide valuable aerospace educational resources for fellow volunteers and the general public and are an asset for our first responders and military alike.”
Today, CAP trains interceptor pilots and unnamed aerial vehicle operators, it supports aerial observation missions and counterdrug operations, and it operates youth and aerospace education programs.
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), who introduced a Senate version of the resolution, said CAP has been integral to America’s national security since it was founded 75 years ago.
“Two coastal patrol bases located in Maine contributed to our nation’s defense during World War II, and today, hundreds of Civil Air Patrol members in Maine serve in a variety of roles, from search and rescue to disaster relief,” Collins said. “Over the past 75 years, thousands of patriotic volunteers have helped keep our country safe.”