Getting Started in the CAP Cadet Program

Step 1: Attend regular meetings for three weeks and then turn in your application and registration fee.  Learn the Cadet Oath.

Step 2: Neatly write your e-mail address on the sign-in sheet.  After your application is processed, you will be added to the TX-179 Thunderbird Composite Squadron Yahoo Group and will receive an e-mail notification. 

Step 3: You will be assigned to the BCT (Basic Cadet Training) Flight, and will learn how to drill, practice physical training, and review study materials for first leadership test.  Write down the BCT Flight Sergeant’s name and contact information.

Step 4: Supply Officer Dennis Schulin will help determine your uniform size. The Deputy Commander for Cadets will need this information to order your uniform.

Step 5: Study the information on the CD and DVD you receive. The first promotion is the General John F. Curry Achievement. It has several parts:

• Leadership Test – The test will cover the first chapter of Leadership: 2000 and Beyond.  Testing is administered on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays.  Results are posted on Yahoo Groups.
• Drill Test – After successfully passing the Leadership test you will take a performance test on basic drill skills
• CPFT - Cadet Physical Fitness Training. The requirements can be found in CAPR 52-18.  Testing is conducted on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
• Moral Leadership – Taught on the 4th Tuesday of each month.  (The first Moral Leadership class required for the Curry Achievement will be scheduled by the unit’s Moral Leadership officer.)
• Unit Activities - Attend regular meetings.

The BCT Flight Sergeant will show you how to sign up for testing as soon as you are ready.  Cadets are encouraged to test at every opportunity and to be fully prepared for each test.

 A “Cadet Records” spreadsheet is posted on the bulletin board and should be checked regularly for any remaining requirements needed for advancement

Step 6: After you have completed all the requirements of the Curry Achievement a promotion review will be conducted with the DCFC (Deputy Commander for Cadets) and a ranking cadet to discuss your promotion. Once the promotion review has been completed, you will be promoted to the rank of Cadet Airman on the following 1st, 2nd or 3rd Tuesday meeting during Opening Formation. Parents are welcome to attend.  (No promotions are conducted on the 4th or 5th Tuesday) 

Please note that all meetings begin promptly at 7:00 PM and you must be in uniform and in formation to be promoted. (If you arrive late you will be promoted during closing formation at the end of the meeting.)

Step 7: After your promotion, login to E-Services. Click Here to enter the Curry Achievement.

Step 8: Study for your next Achievement. If you have not yet received your binder, you can study the aerospace books online at Aerospace Dimensions & Journey of Flight.

Step 9: Sign up for the Texas Wing Cadet Programs Yahoo group.