Cadet Squadron

RED OAK CADET SQUADRON

STANDARD OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS SCHOOL YEAR 2013-2014

1 Hello,

On behalf of the senior and cadet staff, I would like to welcome you to the Red Oak Cadet Squadron. We offer well rounded cadet program that consists of a wide range of extracurricular activities. The SOI you are holding in your hands represents our standards for appearance, behavior, and our expectations of your contributions to the unit. While our standards may appear high to some, we only want you to have the best possible experience while you go through your cadet career.

While in CAP you will have the opportunity to attend a wide range of Group, Wing, Regional, and National activities as well as the International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE) as you achieve higher levels in the cadet program. I encourage you to attend as many of these activities as your time and budget allow, as the experience gained from them will prove valuable to you in everyday life.

If you have any questions about this guide feel free to ask your chain of command for any clarifications.

Regards,

Jane B. Smalley Lieutenant Colonel, Civil Air Patrol Commander, Red Oak Cadet Squadron

Table of Contents CHAPTER TOPIC PAGE Chapter One General Information 3 Chapter Two Safety 3 Chapter three Attendance 4 Chapter Four Organization 4 Chapter Five Uniform & Appearance 5 Chapter Six Cadet Programs 6 Chapter Seven Awards 6 Chapter Eight Meeting Building (FBO) Procedures 7 Chapter Nine Customs & Courtesies 7 Chapter Ten Restrictions 8 Chapter Eleven Inspection 8 Chapter Twelve PROPWASH 9 NOTES 11

RED OAK CADET SQUADRON CADET BASIC STANDARD OPERATING INSTRUCTION

Developed with the assistance and source information of Minnesota Wing Cadet Programs, California Wing Cadet Programs, Texas Wing Cadet Programs Directorate, and New York Wing Cadet Programs. 2 2013-2014 Red Oak Cadet Squadron Cadet Basic Standard Operating Instruction Chapter One General Information

1.1 Expectations. Cadets should become familiar with the contents of this SOI before completing Achievement One – The Curry Achievement. You have been given a copy when you joined to facilitate this. You are required to bring a copy of this SOI book with you to each day until you have understood its contents and are able to comply with its instructions.

1.2 Introduction. By nature, the CAP cadet program provides a rigorous physical and mental training program. Completing the first achievement allows the cadet opportunities to participate in emergency services and other cadet programs. Credit for successful completion of the Curry achievement must be earned. No credit will be automatically given simply because of attendance.

1.3 Transportation. Transportation to and from meetings is ultimately your responsibility. Cadets are expected to be picked up no later than 15 minutes after the meeting is over.

1.4 Reporting. Cadets will report on time for both class and meeting. Cadets will be in the uniform of the day as per the weekly schedule. Cadets who have not yet received a Blue uniform or who have not purchased BDU uniforms should wear a plain black collared shirt and khaki pants with a black belt and black shoes. The shirt will be tucked in. All CAP grooming standards and all school uniform guidelines will be adhered to.

1.5 Dismissal or Withdrawal. A cadet’s behavior will bring credit upon themselves and CAP. Misconduct may subject a cadet to dismissal and will be based on a thorough and impartial investigation by the IG, Honor Board, or designated representative. Withdrawal without prejudice is permitted for reasons of sickness or hardship. Cadets are required to participate in the CAP program 75% of the time. A Cadet is expected to advance in grade and rank at least two times during a year. A cadet’s failure to advance could be grounds for dismissal from the CAP program.

1.6 “Open Door” Policy. The “open door” policy encourages the cadets to visit the key cadet and senior staff members’ offices to discuss business anytime they are present. This can include, but not limited to, feelings that you have been hazed or treated unfairly.

Chapter Two Safety

2.1 It is the responsibility of every person at CAP meetings, Search and Rescue (SAR)-exercises or any other CAP function to promote and observe all safety precautions.

2.2 Safety violations may be reported through chain of command or directly to your Commander.

2.3 Red Oak Jr. High – the following is a partial list of general safety rules for the meeting rooms. Classroom 1. Running indoors is not permitted. 2. Electrical appliances will be unplugged when not being used.

3 3. All personnel will be aware of the fire and inclement weather procedures (evacuation, reporting, etc.) 4. Do not touch anything that is not yours unless permitted by the owner. 5. The Dillow Rule: Nothing will be thrown, launched, actuated, propelled, flipped, pitched, tossed or flicked while at meeting unless directed to as part of an Aerospace activity. Airport 6. While on the tarmac cadets will not wear cover. 7. Cadets are not allowed on the tarmac without permission. Cadets should be instructed and be aware of the dangers of the props and other hazards associated with an airport.

Chapter Three Attendance

3.1 Absence from Duty. Only the Commander may excuse cadets from duty or formations. Any cadet excused from duty or formations or PT will receive a written notice confirming his/her status. He/she will notify his/her flight Commander. Excused absences include school related activities, illness or inability to complete physical training temporarily (as specified by a doctor). At all formations, the Flight Commander will report all absences as directed. When a cadet misses part of the training session, he/she will attend as much of the remaining portion as possible. A cadet on limited duty status will participate to the amount possible in training and activities. Cadets who are going to be absent should inform the Commander by phone or email prior to being absent.

3.2 Credit. Credit for completing a CAP activity is not automatic. Each cadet must satisfactorily complete at least 75% of the required training and instruction, as determined by the Commander and successfully pass the examinations associated with leadership achievement, aerospace education and PT test as well as attend Character Development instruction to receive credit for each achievement. A cadet’s attitude and behavior is also taken into account for each achievement.

Chapter Four Organization

4.1 Structure. The Texas Wing is composed of the Wing, Groups, Squadrons and Flights. The Red Oak Cadet Squadron is a member of Group Three of the Texas Wing. The Squadron will be composed of at least one flight of cadets and others as is needed. Each flight will have element leaders, a flight sergeant and flight commander. If there is more than one flight, a group commander will be appointed. There will be one Cadet Commander if there is a cadet of sufficient grade and maturity.

4.2 Cadet Staff. The Cadet Commander will make recommendations for the cadet staff. All cadet staff members will attend CTEP (Cadet Training and Education Program) for training for their various positions.

4.3 Senior Member Officers. CAP Senior members will be assigned to instruct, observe, and evaluate the members of the flight. The health and well-being of the cadets within the flight is the responsibility of the Commander and the senior member staff. Each cadet may look to these senior members for guidance with any problems.

4.4 Chain of Command. A cadet desiring to report to a higher level of command will do so through all intermediate echelons of command. If a cadet desires to talk to the Commander or Chaplain, they may do so, at

4 any time, by making a request to his/her Flight Sergeant or Flight Commander. A request to speak to the Chaplain will never be denied and will be granted immediately, as soon as possible.

Chapter Five Uniform & appearance

5.1 Grooming Standards. All members of CAP must be well groomed and assure that their personal appearance at all times reflects proper credit upon themselves and CAP. The established grooming standards are published in CAPM 39-1, “The Civil Air Patrol Uniform Manual.” Cadets are expected to familiarize themselves with and adhere to this manual.

5.2 General Appearance. Cadets will be in proper uniform at all times. Cadets are required to maintain a high standard of appearance. Uniforms will be neat and clean at all times. All buttons with the exception of the neck button will be buttoned. No items will be carried in shirt pockets. Uniforms will be worn in accordance with CAPM 39-1, “Civil Air Patrol Uniform Manual.” BDU blouse sleeves will conform and be worn cuffed or down depending upon the Commander’s blouse. The Commander shall choose which is applicable depending upon the weather conditions.

5.3 Uniforms. The uniform combinations to be worn during the class meetings are outlined in the class calendar. Physical training will be a black or brown plain t-shirt, a unit t-shirt, or any CAP t-shirt, black or dark blue athletic shorts, white gym socks, athletic shoes(no converse or skater shoes allowed) and appropriate undergarments. Winter PT uniform may include black, navy blue, maroon or gray sweats. The following chart will be followed according to which uniform you have. The first one on the list is always the uniform of the day. The Squadron Uniform is only worn if you do not own either of the other two uniforms. 1st Tuesday of the month Blues/BDUs/Squadron Uniform 2nd Tuesday of the month BDUs/Blues/Squadron Uniform 3rd Tuesday of the month BDUs/Blues/Squadron Uniform 4th Tuesday of the month BDUs/PT gear (for meeting) 5th Tuesday of the month (if there is one) BDUs/Blues/Squadron Uniform (unless otherwise specified)

5.4 Personal Hygiene. Cadets are required to maintain a high standard of personal hygiene. Cadets are encouraged to take at least one shower per day, use deodorant, and change underwear daily. Teeth should be brushed and male cadets will be clean-shaven in accordance with (IAW) CAP grooming standards.

Chapter Six Cadet Program

6.1 Cadet Program. The Cadet program consists of the following elements: 1. Leadership Laboratory 2. Achievement Testing 3. Character Development 4. Aerospace Education Modules 5. Aerospace Education Activities 6. Aerospace Education Testing 7. Physical Training 8. PT Testing 5 9. Emergency Services Training 10. Search and Rescue (SAR) Exercises 11. Orientation Flights – glider and powered 12. Cadet Awards Testing 13. Encampments 14. Cadet Training and Education Program (CTEP) 15. Cadet Activities 16. Drills and Ceremonies 17. Color Guard 18. National Cadet Special Activities (NCSA) 19. Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) 6.2 Each cadet will read and have a working knowledge of CAPP 151 “Customs & Courtesies”, “Learn to Lead: Volumes 1&2”, CAPM 39-1 “CAP Uniform Manual”, AFMAN 36-2203 “Drill & Ceremonies”, and Aerospace Education Modules 1 – 6.

6.3 Examinations. Testing will be offered at least once each month for Leadership Achievements, Aerospace Education Modules, Wright Brothers Award, and the Mitchell Award, and other Awards as needed. These tests will be administered by the Testing Officer and will qualify cadets for each achievement. However, promotion will be based on the conduct and behavior of the cadet and his or her ability to assume the responsibilities of each achievement.

6.4 Evaluation. The Cadet and Senior member staff will evaluate cadets constantly. Evaluation of your performance will be on leadership, academics, special activities, and physical training activities.

Chapter Seven Awards and Promotion

7.1 Awards. Awards are designed to be earned. An award is formal recognition of outstanding performance. The cadet may achieve the following awards: Wright Brothers, Mitchell, Earhart, Eaker, and Spaatz. The Spaatz award is the highest level of cadet award that may be achieved.

7.2 Promotion. Promotion to the next achievement will be awarded IAW CAPR 52-16 and will consist of each of the following elements: Leadership, Aerospace Education, Character Development, Physical Training, and reciting the Cadet Oath. Cadets are promoted on the first meeting night of each month. Cadets must be in a CAP uniform IAW with CAPM 39-1, including grooming standards, before being promoted.

7.3 Other Awards. Cadets who qualify may receive a Commander’s Commendation. Cadets may be nominated for Cadet of the Year IAW CAPR 39-3.

7.4 Individual Awards A. Squadron/Flight Honor Cadet B. Squadron/Academic Honor Cadet

Chapter Eight Meeting Building Procedures

8.1 Cadets will be familiar with all items on the flight bulletin board if one is posted. Otherwise cadets will be familiar with items given during announcements and will follow procedures if needed. 6 8.2 No unnecessary noise will be permitted in the building during class and meetings.

8.3 Broken or defective equipment will be reported immediately to the safety officer, commander, or senior member in charge of the activity.

8.4 Any personal items left at meetings may be confiscated. Cadets who leave items must contact their flight staff to secure the item’s return. There are consequences for leaving items behind.

8.5 All latrine facilities should be kept neat and clean.

8.6 The telephones at the meeting building will not be used to initiate calls, except in an emergency such as a fire. Cadets needing to use the telephone to call parents should first ask for permission.

8.7 Cadets will maintain and police the grounds.

8.8 When using stairways, use every step. Running, skipping, or jumping is not permitted.

8.9 Glass on windows will not be touched except for cleaning.

Chapter Nine Customs & Courtesies

9.1 Cadets will briskly and silently remove headgear with their right hand when 3 paces from a door, or when they place a foot on the bottom step prior to entering a building.

9.2 Cadets will salute all officers; senior, cadet, or military as defined in CAP regulations.

9.3 Cadets will double time to and from formations except when carrying bulky articles.

9.4 Cadets will stand at attention when addressing or being addressed by a staff member, unless the staff member directs otherwise.

9.5 When asked a direct question, the answer will be clear, brief, and concise. If a cadet does not know an answer, he or she will state that.

9.6 Cadets will not sit in the classroom until directed to do so.

9.7 Reporting Procedures. Knock twice at the door and await instructions to enter. Position yourself two paces from the officer or two paces in front of the officer’s desk. Salute and report: “Sir/Ma’am, Cadet (Your grade) (Your last name) reports as ordered” or “Cadet (Your last name) reports.” Drop your salute only after the person you are reporting to has returned it. Carry on the conversation in the first and second person. When your business is completed, salute (wait to have your salute returned), execute a facing movement toward the nearest exit and depart.

Chapter Ten Restrictions

7 10.1 Cadets will not gamble, use tobacco products, use any drugs, or consume or possess alcohol at any time during CAP activities. Weapons of any type will not be tolerated unless provided by squadron staff and used as a part of a supervised training exercise.

10.2 The use of any medications must be cleared by the Medical Officer or designated representative before being taken at a CAP activity.

10.3 Cadets will not engage in conversation that is vulgar, improper, sexual in nature, or any other type of harassment or offensive action.

10.4 Sunglasses will not be worn in formation at any time, unless prescribed by the medical officer or designated representative.

Chapter Eleven Inspection Standard

11.1 Uniform Inspection. Uniform inspections will be conducted in accordance with the Red Oak Cadet Squadron Inspection Standard, using that document as the score sheet. One will be given to you before your first inspection. Cadet Staff members are highly encouraged to review this document.

11.2 In-ranks Inspections. In-ranks inspections will be conducted only with the permission of the squadron commander or deputy commander for cadets during meeting time using the proper inspection procedure in accordance with AFMAN 36-2203.

11.3 Garbage. At the end of each meeting the garbage is to be emptied and the bag replaced.

8 Chapter Twelve PROPWASH

CADET OATH I pledge that I will serve faithfully in the Civil Air Patrol cadet program, and that I will attend meetings regularly, participate actively in unit activities, obey my officers, wear my uniform properly, and advance my education and training rapidly to prepare myself to be of service to my community, state, and nation.

THE TEXAS WING CADET HONOR CODE On my honor as a Civil Air Patrol Cadet of the Texas Wing, I will not lie, cheat, steal, neither commit any act of intentional dishonesty nor tolerate those who do.

CIVIL AIR PATROL MOTTO “Semper Vigilans” – Always Vigilant

US AIR FORCE MISSION STATEMENT The Mission of the USAF is to defend the United States through control and exploitation of air and space.

THE MISSION OF THE CIVIL AIR PATROL The mission of the Civil Air Patrol is to serve America by developing our nation’s youth, accomplishing local, state, and national missions, and educating our citizens to ensure air and space supremacy.

CAP CADET PROGRAM MISSION STATEMENT The Mission of the CAP cadet program is to provide the youth of our nation a quality program that enhances their leadership skills through an interest in aviation, and simultaneously provide services to the United States Air Force and the local community.

AIR FORCE CORE VALUES Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We do

CIVIL AIR PATROL CORE VALUES Integrity - adherence to moral and ethical principles; it is doing the right thing at all times 9 Volunteer Service - performing a service willingly and without pay or compensation Excellence - doing your very best at whatever you are doing Respect - to show regard or consideration for

CAP MISSIONS Aerospace Education, Cadet Programs, Emergency Services

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP The art of influencing and directing people in a way that will win their obedience, confidence, respect, and loyal cooperation in achieving a common objective or goal.

THE CADET TRAINING AND EDUCATION PROGRAM (CTEP) MISSION STATEMENT To develop leaders through standardized training, education, and evaluation; establishing a standard of excellence in Texas Wing Cadet Programs.

PRINCIPLES OF FOLLOWERSHIP Respect for Authority, Attitude, Integrity, Discipline, Listening, Loyalty, Courtesy

THE DEFINITION OF MILITARY DISCIPLINE Military discipline is that mental attitude and state of training which renders obedience instinctive under all conditions. It is founded upon respect for and loyalty to properly constituted authority.

THE VALUE OF DRILL AND CEREMONIES On the drill field, the individual learns to participate as a member of a team, to appreciate the need for discipline, how to respond to authority, to follow orders promptly and precisely, and to recognize the effects of their actions on the group as a whole. Learning to follow is the first step toward leadership.

FOUNDING DATES FOR THE CIVIL AIR PATROL AND US AIR FORCE Civil Air Patrol Created – December 1, 1941, US Air Force Created – July 26, 1947 Civil Air Patrol became official US Air Force Auxiliary – May 26, 1948

TYPES OF SQUADRONS Cadet Squadron, Composite Squadron, Senior Squadron

ORGANIZATION OF THE CIVIL AIR PATROL 8 Regions make up the Civil Air Patrol (Northeast, Middle East, Great Lakes, Southeast, North Central, Southwest, Rocky Mountain, and Pacific) 52 Wings (50 US States plus Washington DC and Puerto Rico)

ACHIEVEMENTS PHASE 1 – Curry, Arnold, Feik PHASE II – Rickenbacker, Lindbergh, Doolittle, Goddard, Armstrong PHASE AWARDS – Wright Brothers Award, Mitchell Award, Earhart Award, Eaker Award, Spaatz Award

FIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF A COMMAND VOICE Loudness, Projection, Distinction, Inflection, Snap

UNIFORM ITEM SYMBOLISMS Hat Insignia – The cap insignia represents the original Army Air Corps on which the Air Force is founded. Texas Wing Patch – The patch represents the Wings over the Lone Star State of Texas. 10 NATIONAL CAP/GROUP LEVEL CHAIN OF COMMAND Commander in Chief Honorable Barack H. Obama National Commander, Civil Air Patrol Major General Charles “Chuck” Carr, Jr. Commander, Southwest Region Civil Air Patrol Colonel Frank Buethe Commander, Texas Wing Civil Air Patrol Colonel Brooks Cima Commander, Group 3 Texas Wing Lt Col Russell Miller

SQUADRON LEVEL CHAIN OF COMMAND

Commander, Red Oak Cadet Squadron Lt Col Jane Smalley______

Deputy Commander for Cadets Lt Col Paul Perkins______

Leadership Officer FO Nick Ratzer______

Chaplain Lt Col Nancy Smalley______

Cadet Commander ______

Cadet 1st Sergeant ______

Your Group Commander ______

Your Flight Commander ______

Your Flight Sergeant ______

Your Element Leader 1 ______11 Your Element Leader 2 ______

Your Element Leader 3 ______