The perfect combination of aviation and volunteer service lies within the nearly eighty-year-old organization, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). Since its inception on December 1, 1941, it has evolved into a premier public service organization that carries out emergency service missions, when needed, on the ground and in the air. Originally formed mere days before the attack on Pearl Harbor, the CAP decided to bravely step in to help guard the borders from German submarines when the military was unable to respond. Since then, however, they have served a more peaceful purpose.

CAP is historically known for placing a strong emphasis on its three core missions: Cadet Program, Emergency Services, and Aerospace Education. Young people across the country from the age of 12 and up can join CAP and help make a difference in the world. The CAP has the largest privately-owned fleet of single-engine aircraft in the world. Its 60,000 plus members nationwide are well-known for working with Emergency Services, law-enforcement, and military professionals to save peoples’ lives.

Each CAP Squadron in the United States has offered a lending hand during times of natural disasters. During Hurricanes Katrina, Andrew, and Floyd, the CAP helped with disaster relief by flying in badly needed supplies and water to the victims in need. They also assisted during the Exxon Valdez oil spill and the Oklahoma City bombing. The organization was even able to be of service to our country after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as the CAP Cessna 172 was the only nonmilitary aircraft allowed in the nation’s airspace. It provided emergency management officials the first high-resolution images of the World Trade Center site. During the aftermath of 9/11, nationwide, CAP volunteers transported blood and medical supplies, provided communication, transportation support, and assisted state and federal officials in need.

Locally, CAP Squadron 305 has been in existence since 1941 and is located on the Falcon Field Airport grounds near the terminal building. Squadron 305 Captain Kerry Macpherson is proud to serve its 143 current members as their commander. “The Civil Air Patrol helps builds great leadership skills,” he said. Along with teaching leadership skills, Macpherson’s mission and intent are to provide a high-quality squadron in the Arizona Wing by offering education, character development, aerospace education, and emergency services training to all members.

Squadron 305 continuously assists the City of Mesa by aiding where needed. Each year they host a 3 – 4 blood drives to save lives. They do a wonderful job helping out with the annual Falcon Field Airport Open House by performing Honor Guard duties, and by bringing static displays and a flight simulator for members of the community it ride in. They also help out with Mesa Community Days, Orientation flights for Multiple High Schools JROTC cadets, several presentations at different schools for Aerospace education, and several SAR missions.

CAP Squadron 305 is here to serve the people of Mesa, and the City is grateful for their service.

Squadron 305 meets weekly on Tuesday nights from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

If you would like to join the Squadron 305, please see the CAP Squadron 305 website or email Captain John Bryant:  john.bryant@az305.net.