The Kansas Wing of Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is the highest echelon of Civil Air Patrol in the state of Kansas. Kansas Wing headquarters are located in Salina, Kansas.[1] The Kansas Wing consists of over 400 cadet and adult members at 13 locations across the state of Kansas.[2]
Kansas Wing of the Civil Air Patrol was organized under its first commander, H. Howard Wilcox, in December 1941.[3] Wilcox led the Kansas Wing until September 1947, followed by Paul D. Threlfall to April 1950. A total of 30 individuals have led the Kansas Wing since its formation.
The Kansas Wing assisted the neighboring Oklahoma Wing in their response to the 2013 Moore tornado by assisting with ground team photography of the tornado's path.[4]
The Kansas Wing performs the three missions of Civil Air Patrol: providing emergency services; offering cadet programs for youth; and providing aerospace education for both CAP members and the general public.[6]
Emergency services
Civil Air Patrol performs search and rescue, disaster relief, humanitarian service, and Air Force support missions, as well as homeland security and counter-drug operations.
Cadet programs
Civil Air Patrol provides cadet programs for youth aged 12–21 training in leadership, aerospace education, communication, and emergency services. Cadets receive training at weekly squadron meetings as well as through participating in local and wing level activities throughout the year.[7] Cadets have the opportunity to attend encampments which provide a week of immersion training at a military installation.[8]
Aerospace education
Civil Air Patrol provides aerospace education to both members of Civil Air Patrol and the public. Education provided to members is offered through the cadet program and through specialized education to CAP pilots. Education provided to the public is offered through educational materials provided to schools and private organizations.[9]
Organization
The Kansas Wing utilizes the "Group" structure and has two designated groups, Group 1 & Group 2.
1st Lt. Ryan Cobb, 384th Air Refueling Squadron navigator, helps a Kansas Wing Civil Air Patrol cadet suit up in Mission Oriented Protective Posture gear.
