Wearing the Uniform
YOUR UNIFORM is a visual representation of your commitment to the Core Values.
Because uniforms are unique — only CAP cadets wear the CAP cadet uniform — they are a source of pride. Wearing the uniform is part of your leadership training. The uniform helps you develop self-discipline, personal responsibility, and self-respect. Whenever you wear the uniform, you represent not just yourself but also all of CAP and the U.S. Air Force, so wear the uniform with pride.
How to Obtain Uniforms
Our squadron has a limited supply of ABU (camouflage) and Blues uniform items. Talk to your element leader or recruiting officer. Uniform items may be purchased through a variety of sources, but the official source for Civil Air Patrol uniform items is Vanguard. The Uniform Order Sheet has a list of the required items for each uniform.
Upon completing Achievement 1, CAP provides cadets with a Curry Uniform Voucher via email to help offset costs for the two uniforms. Again, some articles may be available for free locally. The approximate cost for both uniforms is $380 without the voucher.
When a cadet outgrows a uniform or leaves CAP, we ask families to turn those items in to the squadron so other cadets might use them.
Sewing patches the easy way, courtesy of a Spaatz cadet's mom.
When Chief Master Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force Kaleth Wright speaks with fellow airmen his uniform is perfect. Is yours?
How to Prepare Your Uniform
For a quick start, see pages 16-17 in the New Cadet Guide, pictured below.
The official regulation for uniforms is CAP Regulation 39-1.
- The grooming standards for all uniforms are on paragraph 3.1. (page 18).
- Regulations for ABUs are on paragraph 5.1.1. (page 68).
- Regulations for Class B Blues are on paragraph 4.1.11. (page 48) for males and 4.1.12. (page 52) for females.
Ten Tips for Looking Sharp in Uniform
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Keep your insignia in a special place at home.
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Prepare your uniform the night before you wear it.
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Trim loose strings from buttons, pockets, and belt loops.
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Use spray starch when ironing.
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Put cardboard behind your ribbons and name plate.
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Check your appearance in a full-length mirror.
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Keep a small cloth with you to dust your shoes and brass.
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Check your gig-line upon exiting a car or restroom.
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Avoid leaning against anything while in uniform.
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Ask your wingman to double-check your uniform, and return the favor.