Getting Started for Seniors

What is the procedure to become an Adult Member?

Click on the following links for:

  • Step-by-step instructions to become a Senior Member
  • Step-by-step instructions to become a Cadet Sponsor Member
  • Detailed descriptions of the process is listed below


    Adults that wish to become a member have two choices; they can become a Senior Member (SM) or a Cadet Sponsor Member (CSM). The difference between these two classes of membership is how active you wish to become in the squadron. A Senior Member will be given a position and associated responsibilities within the squadron and be expected to wear either the USAF uniform or a CAP distinctive uniform to the meeting and related functions. You will be expected to attend meetings more often than not.

    To join as a Cadet Sponsor Member you must be a parent, grandparent or legal guardian of an active CAP cadet. A Cadet Sponsor Member does not wear any distinctive clothing, they are not assigned a grade (rank), meeting attendance is at your convenience and your dues are less. The primary purpose of a Cadet Sponsor Member is to help support the squadron when there is a special need, perhaps 2 or 3 times a year at most. Any function you may get involved in will be under the guidance of a Senior Member.

    To become a Senior Member or Cadet Sponsor Member of the Pegasus Squadron you should first attend at least 3 meetings. The next step is an interview, typically held on your third visit. During the interview you will turn in completed membership application, CAP Form 12, that you can fill out online and print out or request one at a previous meeting. You should also receive and begin a Senior Member Progress Record. This is a checklist of what you need to do for each of the phases of your Senior Member Career. This form you keep with you at home. Also, during your entrance interview, the Professional Development Officer will speak to you about selecting a career track and duty assignment. Look below for the list that is available. All prospective SM's and CSM's must submit a fingerprint card, FD Form 258, which is processed by the FBI as part of a background check (required for all members). This form may be obtained from the Administrative Officer at Bldg. 30.

    Prospective SM's will need to submit two checks; one payable to "Civil Air Patrol" for $75 and one payable to "Pegasus Squadron, CAP" for $40. The check payable to Civil Air Patrol covers the first year's National dues, Texas Wing dues and study materials. The check payable to Pegasus Squadron covers initial insignia. Prospective CSM's only need to submit one check payable to "Civil Air Patrol" for $25 ($20 national dues + $5 for a nametag). Squadron dues are $1 per meeting or $20 per year (if paid up front).

    For more information see the CP Senior Member Fast Start Handbook (PDF). As a Senior Member or Cadet Sponsor you will be required to take two classes: "Level 1" and "Cadet Protection". These two classes will require about 2 hours of your time. It should be noted that you will not be allowed to be around cadets without another Senior Member present until your fingerprints have been processed and you have completed the Cadet Protection Program and Level 1 classes. These classes are taken on line once you get an ID #. The links are below under the Level 1 and CPPT training. Also, please reference the attached PowerPoint slide on Senior Member progression.

    Level I and CPPT Training

    Customs and Courtesies (PDF)

    Uniforms

    Most uniform items can be obtained without cost through the Squadron Supply Officer, based on availability. If Squadron Supply does not have what you need, we may be able to request it for you. If certain items are not available in your size and you prefer not to wait, you may purchase them at an Army/Navy surplus store such as Banana Bay or military clothing supply store at Randolph AFB or Lackland AFB in San Antonio. If you plan on purchasing items on a military installation, please talk with the Supply Officer first for what you will need to complete the transaction.

    The Supply Officer keeps a small supply of insignia on hand in the “Rank Bank” for sale or you may order them online or by phone at either Vanguard or The Hock Shop.

    Career Tracks