Assemblyman Brian Manktelow (R,C,I-Lyons) today congratulated the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) on its upcoming 80^th anniversary on Dec. 1. CAP was originally founded on Dec. 1, 1941 as a way to add to civilian defense organizations and the branches of the U.S. military during World War II. It is a nonprofit volunteer civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, which takes care of noncombatant missions. CAP officially joined the Air Force’s Total Force in 2015.

“I am honored to be part of such a prestigious organization as the Civil Air Patrol,” said Manktelow. “This year I received my certificate and became part of the New York State Legislative Squadron. CAP is a great organization, which helps supplement the U.S. Air Force alongside the National Guard and Reserve. Having civilian efforts such as this really helps out our military. Congratulations for helping serve our nation for the past 80 years.”

CAP has nearly 25,000 members in its cadet program and offers many educational and growth opportunities to the younger generation. This includes a top national summer flight academy and over 30 national programs, which put a strong emphasis on leadership and careers in aviation.