Choo Choo Senior Squadron in Chattanooga invites anyone to join the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and participate in the Beginner Emergency Services Training (B.E.S.T.) program. This program offers a rare opportunity to volunteer as a member of CAP’s aircrew, flying in a Cessna 182 aircraft and training to assist in vital emergency services.
Why Join?
1. Serve Your Community and Nation: As a member of the Choo Choo Senior Squadron, you’ll be trained to support emergency missions, including searching for downed aircraft and documenting disaster damage. Your service will be crucial in providing aid and relief during critical times.
2. Comprehensive Training: The 12-week B.E.S.T. program covers essential skills such as radio communications, emergency signals, and CAP search patterns. By the end of the program, you’ll be qualified for your first Mission Scanner training flights, earning your "wings" and becoming an integral part of the aircrew.
3. Unique Experience: Experience the thrill of flying in a small aircraft, working closely with seasoned CAP pilots and aircrew members. The training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on flight sessions, ensuring you are fully prepared for real-life missions.
4. Personal and Professional Growth: Enhance your leadership, teamwork, and communication skills through this structured training program. The experience gained will be invaluable in both your personal and professional life.
Training Schedule:
The 12-week training program is split into two halves.
· Starting mid-October, there will be six consecutive weekly training sessions on Thursday evenings from 7-9:30 p.m.
· The second half will commence in mid-January, 2025, also on Thursday evenings.
- Location: Wilson Air West at Chattanooga Airport, with occasional meetings at alternate locations on airport grounds
Requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Have good vision (with or without correction)
- Physically fit enough to be able to climb into and out of a Cessna aircraft
- Have good moral character
- Able to work well with team mates
- Complete an application and fingerprint card ($30 fee)
- Pay annual CAP dues ($66)
- Purchase a CAP uniform (approximately $200)
- Attend all training sessions and participate actively
Cost: While there is no charge for the training itself, CAP membership and uniform costs will apply. Expect to invest around $300 for your initial setup.
How to Apply
With only eight spots available, officials encourage you to apply as soon as possible to secure your place in this exciting program. Follow these steps to get started:
- Read through the program information on the website: BestWayToFly.com
- Complete the online B.E.S.T. program application.
- Submit your CAP membership application and fingerprint card at one of the regular meetings (generally held on the first and third Thursdays of each month.