Civil Air Patrol came into being by the signing of an administrative order signed by New York mayor Fiorello LaGuardia on 1 December 1941 (ironically seven days before the attack on Pearl Harbor) and has since served as the United States Air Force Auxiliary as well as an effective volunteer organization in service to the community, state, and nation.
Our wing commander, Col John Stokes said it best in his CAP Birthday message yesterday:
Members of the California Wing,Many happy returns of the day.
71 years ago today, a dedicated group of visionaries created an organization designed to serve the country in a time of war. After helping to win the war by defending the homeland, these same visionaries transformed the organization into what it has become today. Those of us that have chosen to serve our country and communities through the Civil Air Patrol should be proud that we are the living legacy of those visionaries. For these past 71 years, we and those that came before us, have been there for others in their time of need, help create the next generation of leaders and raised the nation's awareness about the aerospace. This is not only our organization's birthday but our birthday as well. Let's celebrate our accomplishments and celebrate our membership in the finest volunteer organization in the world.
Semper Vigilans!
Jon Stokes, Colonel, CAP
Commander, California Wing
Civil Air Patrol, United States Air Force Auxiliary
Bill
W. H. Phinizy, MAJ, CAP
Squadron Commander
Squadron 150
