Civil Air Patrol Day

Civil Air Patrol Day is observed in the United States on December 1 each year. The date commemorates the founding of the Civil Air Patrol and recognizes the volunteers who have supported emergency services, aerospace education, youth development, and national service since 1941.

History of Civil Air Patrol Day

Aviation advocate and World War I pilot Gill Robb Wilson was among the leading figures who promoted the creation of an organization that could use civilian aviation resources to support the United States during a national emergency. Civil Air Patrol was officially established on December 1, 1941, just six days before the United States entered World War II.

During the war, Civil Air Patrol volunteers conducted coastal patrols, searched for enemy submarines, transported supplies, assisted aircraft in distress, carried out search-and-rescue missions, and supported other wartime operations. Members often flew their own aircraft and accepted considerable personal risk.

Civil Air Patrol was incorporated as a federally chartered nonprofit organization in 1946. In 1948, Congress designated it as the civilian auxiliary of the newly established U.S. Air Force. Its three primary missions are emergency services, cadet programs, and aerospace education.

Interesting Facts About Civil Air Patrol Day

• Civil Air Patrol was founded on December 1, 1941.
• Its World War II volunteers flew more than 500,000 hours on coastal patrols and other missions.
• More than 90 Civil Air Patrol aircraft were lost during wartime service, and 64 members died while performing missions.
• Men and women served as pilots, observers, radio operators, medical personnel, and ground crew members.
• Congress established Civil Air Patrol as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force in 1948.
• Civil Air Patrol’s current missions include search and rescue, disaster response, aerospace education, and youth leadership programs.
• Adults do not need to be pilots or have military experience to become Civil Air Patrol volunteers.

How Civil Air Patrol Day Is Observed

Civil Air Patrol squadrons may mark the day with anniversary ceremonies, educational programs, historical presentations, community events, and recognition of volunteer service.

Individuals can learn about the organization’s wartime history, visit a local squadron, explore its cadet and aerospace education programs, or support its emergency-service activities. Volunteer opportunities are available in aviation, communications, logistics, administration, education, youth mentoring, and other fields.

When Is Civil Air Patrol Day in 2026?

Civil Air Patrol Day is observed on December 1 each year.

Observations