Commander Col Dale Newell Chief of Staff Lt Col Bruce Sheppard Cadets 325 | Vice Commander Lt Col David Roberts Squadrons 17 Seniors 462 | |
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The Oklahoma Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is the highest echelon of Civil Air Patrol in the state of Oklahoma. Oklahoma Wing headquarters are located at Tinker Air Force Base near Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma Wing consists of over 650 cadet and adult members at over 17 locations across the state of Oklahoma.
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Mission
The Oklahoma Wing performs the three primary missions of the Civil Air Patrol: providing emergency services; offering cadet programs for youth; and providing aerospace education for both CAP members and the general public.
Emergency services
The Civil Air Patrol performs emergency service missions, including search and rescue missions directed by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at Tyndall Air Force Base. CAP members also perform disaster relief efforts, including providing aerial photography of disaster zones, transporting emergency service officials and equipment via ground and air, and handling the transport of blood and human tissue, often in support of the Red Cross, when conventional means of transport are unavailable. The Civil Air Patrol provides Air Force support by conducting light transport, communications support, low-altitude route surveys, and assisting Air Force pilots during enemy interception drills by flying into restricted airspace, acting as an opposing force for the purpose of the exercise, so Air Force pilots can practice high-speed intercepts. Civil Air Patrol pilots also assist in counter-drug operations.
In May 2013, the Oklahoma Wing undertook its first ever large scale, ground-based photo reconnaissance mission for FEMA following the Moore, Oklahoma tornado. Over 15,000 high resolution photographs were provided to FEMA to aid in the agency's damage assessment efforts.
Cadet programs
The Civil Air Patrol provides cadet programs to youth aged 12 to 21. Cadets take part in a 16-step program which includes aerospace education, leadership training, physical fitness and moral leadership. Oklahoma cadets Cadets meet on average 2 hours per week, and one Saturday per month, and have opportunities to attend leadership encampments, career academies, and other activities during the summer.
Aerospace education
The Civil Air Patrol offers aerospace education to its own members and the general public. Cadets are provided this education through the cadet program and through museum tours, cadet special activities, military and civilian orientation rides, and guest speakers. Senior members study aerospace through the Senior Member Professional Development Program. The CAP provides aerospace education to the public through providing classroom materials available to teachers.