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Cadets in Emergency Services
Encouraging Cadet Involvement
The use of qualified CAP cadets in emergency services is encouraged whenever appropriate. Cadets should receive training in various mission operations and support functions, as permitted by regulations. Cadet qualifications in emergency services are the same as those for adult members, and they should be properly utilized once qualified.
Supervision and Leadership Roles
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Supervision of Cadets Under 18: A qualified senior member must directly supervise cadets who are less than 18 years old.
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Cadets 18 and Older: Cadets who are 18 years or older may be qualified to serve in leadership roles such as Ground Team Leaders or Mission Pilots, and other positions traditionally considered adult roles, in accordance with the applicable Specialty Qualification Training Records (SQTRs). However, Cadet Protection Policies must be adhered to at all times. If adult members are in a subordinate role to a cadet in these positions, they may assume command authority if it becomes necessary to avoid extreme risks that could endanger the team.
Participation in Emergency Services Flights
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Cadets 18 and Older: Only cadets who are 18 years or older who have completed General Emergency Services (GES) training that is indicated on their CAPF 101, Specialty Qualification Card are authorized to fly on aircraft involved in emergency services operations.
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Transport Flights: Any cadet, regardless of age, may be flown directly to and from a mission base to perform mission duties, provided that the Pilot-in-Command is at least a qualified Transport Mission Pilot.
Safety Considerations for Cadets
Adult leaders must take special care not to expose cadets to known threats of violence or other extreme risks. It cannot be assumed that parents of cadets fully understand the potential health risks their children may face during disaster operations, nor can minors (including cadets under 18) fully appreciate those risks. As a result:
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Prohibited Exposures for Cadets Under 18: Cadets under 18 must not be exposed to situations where their health is jeopardized by hazards such as decomposing bodies or hazardous materials. Without explicit parental permission, they should also not be exposed to widespread suffering.
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Serving in High-Risk Specialties: Cadets are not excluded from qualifying and serving in specialties with potential exposure to these risks, but adult leaders must be aware of the associated dangers and take appropriate measures to protect all members, especially cadets.
Guidance from Requesting Agencies
The scope of CAP’s response is determined by the requesting agency, in conjunction with any restrictions set by the Air Force for Air Force-Assigned Missions. The agency outlines the type of assistance needed, which CAP then provides. Some agencies may impose minimum age restrictions, and CAP must honor these. While these restrictions may require the use of younger cadets in support roles at their home units or safe areas away from forward operating locations, CAP adult officers should not discourage cadet involvement when discussing capabilities with external agencies.
Benefits for Cadets Under 18
Cadets under the age of 18 do not receive the same benefits as adult members for Air Force-Assigned Missions. Additional information on cadet benefits is available in CAPR 900-5, The CAP Insurance/Benefits Program, Sections D and E, as well as through NHQ CAP/GC.
