Awards and decorations of the Civil Air Patrol
You must add a |reason=
parameter to this Cleanup template – replace it with {{Cleanup|February 2006|reason=<Fill reason here>}}
, or remove the Cleanup template.
Awards and decorations of the Civil Air Patrol are decorations issued by the Civil Air Patrol of the United States of America for a variety of accomplishment. Such awards are considered civilian decorations and generally speaking may only be worn and displayed on a uniform of the Civil Air Patrol. An exception to this rule applies to incoming AFROTC and JROTC cadets who have also participated in CAP. These cadets are allowed to wear the highest CAP cadet achievement/award ribbon that they earned on their uniform.
Cadet awards
Silver Medal of Valor
![Ribbon for the Silver Medal of Valor](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/02/Smv.gif)
The Silver Medal of Valor is the highest decoration that may be awarded to a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force.
According to CAPR 39-1, Section B, Chapter 9a, the Silver Medal of Valor is awarded to an active Civil Air Patrol member for "distinguished and conspicuous heroic action, at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of normal duty". The presentation of this decoration is authorized by CAP's National Executive Committee.
The Silver Medal of Valor award package includes the medal, a mini-medal for the mess dress uniform, and the ribbon.
Bronze Medal of Valor
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/17/Bmv.png)
Civil Air Patrol GM-45, July 17 1942 - National Headquarters, Civil Air Patrol, Office of Civilian Defense (Washington), established CAP first recognizable award for heroism. It was to be known as the Merit Awards, i.e. red, white and blue, cloth emblems authorized for individuals on special orders of the National Commander, will be of triangular in design and will be worn point down above the left pocket of the shirt or blouse. The Blue Merit Award was awarded for exceptional performance of specific mission, or acts of heroism, under unusually difficult or hazardous conditions.
As CAP prominence and stature was changed with first the transferred to the War Department , then to the US Army Air Force , this awards practice continued. Until CAP News Bulletin, Vol. IV, No. 25 - 24 August 1945. Which announced that with the cooperation of the Heraldic Division of the Office of the Quartermaster General, a number of new awards have been designed. One of which was the three grades of merit citations, awarded by National Headquarters for unusually outstanding services or acts of heroism, have been designed to replace the triangular emblems now authorized.
It wasn’t until the publishing and distribution of CAP Manual Volume 1, Book 1, 1 August 1949. That one had a true picture of the replacement awards. One should note that for several years prior to the issuance of this manual there were very few insignia regulations published. Research has failed to locate any which apply to both cadet and senior insignia. The consequence is that the exact dates of authorization of various insignias items is unknown. Its is known that since photographs contained in the manual show members wearing these awards, one can only surmise there are some.
The Red, White, and Blue Merit awards were now replaced by the Meritorious, Exceptional, and Distinguished Services Award respectively. The Distinguished Service Award was still given for acts of heroism and exceptional service in a duty of great responsibility.
The subject of a specific medal so dedicated for valor or honor was discussed many time over the years, moreover many members requested or submitted, letters, drawings and designs that actions be taken about this concept. At the CAP National Executive Board meeting of 1-2 September 1955, Colonel Freeman. stated that in awarding the three class of awards in CAP there was not a sufficient line of distinction between recognition of outstanding administrative work and cases of actual heroism: and the Board should consider a medal of valor to be given to those members who perform an act of heroism as distinguished from a deed of outstanding administrative work.
The minutes of the National Executive Board 19-20 January 1956, This was again a subject of much discussion Colonel Freeman made a passionate and eloquent speech, and suggested that this medal be called “The Medal of Valor”.. The Motion was made, seconded and unanimously carried by the Board that a Medal of Valor be established as top decoration in CAP.: the design and the medal be readily distinguishable from the present CAP awards: and the authorization for the award (once ribbon and medal are produce) would be the responsibility of the National Executive Board.
The question arose as whether the recommendations for this medal be retroactive. The National Commander (MGEN Walter R. Agee ) advised that it could be, but the final action would have to be taken by the NEB prior to their issuance.
Major General Walter R. Agee, CAP’s National Commander so directed his staff to ask the U.S. Army, Office of the Quartermaster General to design a special award for CAP Valor. On 2 July 1956 an official letter was forward by CAP National Headquarters, The Office of the Quartermaster General gave it an action number of QMGRD-H 421.4, Civil Air Patrol Medal of Valor. Further correspondence and phone call between both CAP and US Army offices did occur. And was so order that a design be submitted to Civil Air Patrol no later than 1 November 1956.
Minutes, National Executive Board 5-6 February 1957. Selection of the Design for the Medal of Valor. Upon a motion by Colonel Whelen , seconded by Colonel Rushing , unanimously passed by the Board, the following resolution was adopted: RESOLVED by the National Executive Board of Civil Air Patrol that design number 2 (as presented by the Heraldic Branch) for the medal and design number 6 (as presented by the Heraldic Branch) for the ribbon are selected for the Medal of Valor.
The selected and approve designs by CAP and the NEB were re-submitted to the United States Army, Office of the Quartermaster General to be presented for review by the Commission of Fine Arts. They approve of the Medal and ribbon design.
CAP Regulation 35-4, 1 March 1957 7. Medal of Valor. The Medal of valor was established as the highest Civil Air Patrol decoration by the National Executive Board. It is awarded to any person who, while serving as a member of Civil Air Patrol, distinguishes himself conspicuously by gallantry and heroic action, at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of normal duty. It must be conclusively established the bravery or self-sacrifice involve conspicuous risk of life and the omission of valiant act could not cause censure.
Minutes, National Executive Board, 9 May 1957. Medal of Valor. The NEB unanimously approved the purchase of 12 medals at an approximate cost of $40.00 each. The National Commander (MGEN Agee) was authorized to establish criteria for the awarding of the medal. The awarding of the medal will by the National Executive Board upon recommendation of the National Commander, and each case will be handled separately.
Minutes, National Board-National Executive Board, 22 April 1960. The following resolution was unanimously approved: The present Medal of Valor is changed to two types: the “Silver Medal of Valor”, to recognize acts of heroism for which the present Medal of Valor is now awarded; and, the “Bronze Medal of Valor, to recognize act of heroism which do not meet the criteria for the award of the “Silver Medal of Valor”. It was decided as a cost saving approach, that CAP rename the present Medal of Valor and casting it in a silver color with the accompanying ribbon having the addition of three silver stars. The second type of action could be the awarded using the present Medal of Valor, and so renaming it to the “Bronze Medal of Valor”, with accompanying ribbon without stars.. It was noted that Silver stars are readily available for purchase at a small price. The Colorado Wing Commander Col. Charles F. Howard, suggested, and was approved, that the Distinguished, Exceptional and Meritorious Service Awards will no longer be awarded for acts of heroism. (AUTHORITY: p. 11, NEB Minutes, 22-23 April 1960.)
Civil Air Patrol Regulations 39-3, 15 August 1960. 9. Criteria for Awarding Decorations. The following is the minimum criteria established for the consideration of acts of service for CAP decorations. (AUTHORITY: p. 11, NEB Minutes, 22-23 April 1960.) a. Silver Medal of Valor. Distinguished and conspicuous gallantry and heroic action, at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of normal duty. b. Bronze Medal of Valor. Distinguished and conspicuous gallantry and heroic action, where danger to self is probable and known.
Historical Facts and Firsts: • The first “Medal of Valor “ was presented to: Cadet John C. Barton C48-5528, Lake Charles Louisiana Cadet Squadron. for heroic actions on 19 April 1957. A certificate and Medal of Valor was presented to Mrs. Ernest Barton, Cadet Bartons Mother. Cadet Barton was not present at this presentation due to weather conditions: however, he did appear later in the program and was congratulated by the Commander, Continental Air Command Lt. General William E. Hall ; National Commander, Brig General Stephen D. McElroy , the National Executive Board Chairman Colonel D. Harold Byrd, CAP at the 1-2 November 1959 National Executive Board meeting held at Ellington AFB, Texas. (AUTHORITY: p. 13, NEB Minutes, 1-2 November 1959.)
• The first “Silver Medal of Valor” was approved for: Staff Sergeant Charles T. Foster, SN 10002348,, Lynchburg Composite Squadron, Virginia Wing, for heroic actions on the 2 July 1957. This action was carried. by the 22-27 April 1960 meeting of the NEB. This was accomplished after the name and criteria was changed by Board actions and so approved at the same 22-27 April 1960, National Board & National Executive Board meeting held at Rice Hotel, Houston and Ellington AFB, Texas. (AUTHORITY: p. 9, , Item 8, NB & NEB Agenda, 22-27 April 1960.)
Current National Headquarters Records indicate: • The first “Silver Medal of Valor” was presented to: Cadet Ronald Baecher, Florida Wing on NHQ PA# 68, 20 December 1962, for heroic actions on 6 May 1962.
• The first female to received the “Silver Medal of Valor” is SM Dorothy A. Kelly, New Hampshire Wing on NHQ PA# 5, 11 May 1977, for heroic actions on 27 March 1977.
• The only individual to have received two “Silver Medals of Valor” is: 1. 1LT Gerald W. Alsum, Colorado Wing on NHQ PA# 4, 20 January 1979, for heroic actions on 5 December 1979. 2. CPT Gerald W. Alsum, Colorado Wing on NHQ PA# 12, 22 April 1982, for heroic actions on 2 January 1982.
• The first member of the National Board to have received the “Silver Medal of Valor” Brigadier General Richard L. Anderson, received the “Silver Medal of Valor” as a LTC assigned to Arkansas Wing on NHQ PA# 8, 14 March 1983 for heroic actions on 21 January 1983.
As of the March 1992 by National HQ records there have been a total of 92 presentation to 91 individuals, 5 of which are females, who as members of Civil Air Patrols received its highest decoration the “Silver Medal of Valor” for “uncommon valor”. A truly magnificent feat. I would surmise that many additional members, who by performing unselfish acts of heroism and displayed courage, quietly and without fanfare, have never truly been reported, and thus may have been overlooked.
Side-bar: Because of the approval of the original designed “Medal of Valor” by the Fire Arts Commission Washington DC. To distinguished the difference between the Silver and Bronze Medals, it was necessary to add three Silver Stars to the “Silver Medal of Valor’ Medal and Ribbon.
Distinguished Service Medal
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/Dsm.png)
Members of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary, may nominate deserving Cadets or Senior Members for various awards. The Exceptional Service Award is the highest of those given to recognize service or unselfish acts. The award must be approved by the Wing and Region Commanders.
From CAP Regulation 39-3 (2 July 1998 revision):
Conspicuous performance of outstanding service in a duty of great responsibility where the position held and results obtained reflect upon the accomplishments and prestige of CAP on a national scale. Recognition should be for an extremely difficult duty of marked national significance which is performed in a clearly outstanding manner or service which clearly aided CAP in furthering national polices.
Exceptional Service Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c7/Esa.gif)
Members of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary, may nominate deserving Cadets or Senior Members for various awards. The Exceptional Service Award is in the middle of those given to recognize service or unselfish acts. The award must be approved by the Wing and Region Commanders.
From CAP Regulation 39-3 (2 July 1998 revision):
Exceptionally outstanding service to CAP in a duty of great responsibility while serving in any capacity with CAP. However, the duty should carry the ultimate responsibility for the successful operation of a region, wing, or major project within the region or wing. The discharge of such duty must involve the acceptance and fulfillment of the obligation so as to greatly benefit the wing or region and CAP.
Meritorious Service Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/74/Msa.gif)
The Meritorious Service Award is an award given to recognize service or unselfish acts by members of the Civil Air Patrol. The United States Air Force Auxiliary, may nominate deserving Cadets or Senior Members and the award must be approved by the Wing and Region Commanders.
From CAP Regulation 39-3 (2 July 1998 revision):
Outstanding achievement or meritorious service rendered specifically on behalf of CAP. Superior performance of normal duties does not, in itself, constitute automatic justification for the Meritorious Service Award. Awards should be restricted to the recognition of achievements and services which are clearly outstanding and unmistakably exceptional when compared to similar achievements and accomplishments of personnel of like rank and responsibilities. In instances where many individuals are affiliated with an exceptionally successful program, project, or mission, the Meritorious Service Award should be awarded to the relatively few individuals whose contributions clearly stand out from the others and who have contributed most to the success of the program.
Commander's Commendation Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/99/Cca.png)
Commander's Commendation Award is an award of the Civil Air Patrol of the United States Air Force Auxiliary. Members may nominate deserving Cadets or Senior Members for various awards. The Commander's Commendation is the lowest of the awards given to recognize service or unselfish acts. The award must be approved by the Wing (state) Commander.
Outstanding duty performance where achievements and services are clearly and unmistakably exceptional when compared to similar achievements and service of members of like rank and responsibility. In instances where several members are affiliated with an exceptionally successful program, project or mission, the Commander’s Commendation Award will be awarded only to those who clearly stand out from the others and who contributed most to the success of the program. A silver star is added to denote a Commanders' Commendation given by the Civil Air Patrol National Commander. The Exceptional Service Award and the Meritorious Service Award differ from the Commanders’ Commendation Award in that they recognize achievements and services significantly above and beyond normal duty performance.
From CAP Regulation 39-3 (2 July 1998 revision)
Certificate of Recognition for Lifesaving
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ca/Lifesavingrib.gif)
The "Certificate of Recognition for Lifesaving" is awarded to members who save a human life, but do not meet the criteria for the Bronze or Silver Medal of Valor. A Silver Star denotes a Lifesaving ribbon not given to someone who would ordinarily save lives at their job. Examples of this include : Docters, Nurses, EMT's, Lifeguards.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Unit Citation Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/13/Ucit.gif)
Exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement which clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units:
(1) Recognition of meritorious service should cover a period of at least 12 months in order to permit the recommending authority to consider simultaneously units with related missions, compare all the units within their wing or region, and select the truly outstanding unit meriting the award.
(2) Recognition of outstanding achievements intended to recognize a single specific act or notable accomplishment that is separate and distinct from the normal mission or regular function of the unit. The period of an outstanding achievement is normally short and characterized by definite beginning and ending dates.
CAPR 39-3, revised 2 July 98
General Carl A. Spaatz Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/61/Spaatz.gif)
The General Carl A. Spaatz Award (sometimes referred to as the Spaatz Award) is the highest award in the United States Civil Air Patrol cadet program.
According to CAPR 39-3, Section C, Chapter 14k, the General Carl A. Spaatz Award may be awarded to cadets who "successfully complete all phases of the CAP cadet program and the General Carl A. Spaatz Award examination". The award was named after General Carl Spaatz, who was the first Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force.
The Spaatz Award is arguably the most difficult honor to earn in the CAP cadet program. Only .05% of CAP cadets ever earn the Spaatz award.
The Spaatz Award comes with a promotion to Cadet Colonel (C/Col), the highest grade obtainable in the cadet program. Upon reaching the age of 21, or upon a voluntary transfer to senior membership after the age of 18, Cadet Colonels are appointed to the grade of Captain (O-3) in the Civil Air Patrol.
External links
General Ira C. Eaker Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6b/Eaker.png)
Awarded by National Headquarters to denote the level of achievement in the CAP cadet program.
For successfully completing the specific requirements in the Phase IV of the cadet program. This award is certified and awarded only by National Headquarters.
CAPR 39-3, revised 1 July 98
Amelia Earhart Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/da/Earhart.png)
The Amelia Earhart Award is an award of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) in honour of Amelia Earhart.
Awarded and certified by the National Headquarters to denote the level of achievement in the CAP cadet program, requiring the successful completion of the specific requirements in Phase III of this program.
CAPR 39-3, revised 1 July 98
External links
Billy Mitchell Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2f/Mitchell.gif)
The General Billy Mitchell Award of the Civil Air Patrol is earned by cadets who have successfully completed the enlisted phase of the cadet program. Mitchell Cadets become Cadet Second Lieutenants upon receipt and, by extension, Cadet Officers.
In order to earn this award, cadets must pass a series of leadership, aerospace and physical fitness tests and attend moral leadership training for each achievement from Cadet Airman Basic through Cadet Chief Master Sergeant. In addition, cadets must attend a military-style encampment before this award is made, and have maintained active membership in the Civil Air Patrol for at least 18 months since joining. 15% of Civil Air Patrol cadets achieve the Mitchell Award.
Although there are higher cadet awards in CAP, the Mitchell requires so much dedication and work to earn, that it is considered by the US military, and other groups, as the equivalent of the Eagle Scout Award. Mitchell Cadets who chose to enlist in the United States Air Force are promoted to E-3 (Airman First Class) upon enlistment and completion of Basic Military Training (BMT), instead of E-1 (Airman Basic). Mitchell Cadets who enlist in the Marine Corps, Navy, or Army are promoted to E-2 upon completion of BMT. The Mitchell Award may also be revoked at any point (even after the recipient is no longer a cadet) if the recipient does something to disgrace the award.
A silver star is worn on the ribbon to denote successful completion of Cadet Officer School.
External links
Neil Armstrong Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a8/Armstrong.png)
The Neil Armstrong Achievement Ribbon is an achievement award presented by the Civil Air Patrol National Headquarters to acknowledge successfully completing the specific requirements of Achievement 8 in Phase II of the cadet program.
Dr. Robert H. Goddard Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4f/Goddard.gif)
The Dr. Robert H. Goddard Achievement award is awarded to denote the level of achievement in the Civil Air Patrol cadet program.
For successfully completing the specific requirements of Achievement 7 in Phase II of the cadet program. NOTE: A silver star worn on the ribbon denotes successful completion of the Model Rocketry Badge requirements CAPR 39-3, revised 1 July 98
General Jimmy Doolittle Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/da/Doolittle.png)
Awarded by National Headquarters to denote the level of achievement in the CAP cadet program for successfully completing the specific requirements of Achievement 6 in Phase II of the cadet program.
CAPR 39-3, revised 1 July 98
Charles A. Lindbergh Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/55/Lindbergh.gif)
The Charles A. Lindbergh Achievement is awarded by the National Headquarters to denote the level of achievement in the Civil Air Patrolcadet program.
For successfully completing the specific requirements of Achievement 5 in Phase II of the cadet program.
Captain Eddie Rickenbacker Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7d/Rickenbacker.gif)
For completion of the 3rd Achievement in the Cadet Program(Tech Sergent C/TSgt)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Wright Brothers Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/Wright.gif)
The Wright Brothers Award is the first award of the Civil Air Patrol cadet program, and is synonymous with the grade of Cadet Staff Sergeant, abbreviated as C/SSgt or, prior to the addition of the Mary Feik Achievement in April 2003, the grade of Cadet Senior Airman (C/SrA).
Mary Feik Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/33/Feik.gif)
Mary Feik Achievement - Civil Air Patrol Awarded by National Headquarters to denote the level of achievement in the CAP cadet program. For successfully completing the specific requirements of Achievement 3 in Phase I of the cadet program. (Senior airman)
CAPR 39-3, (Pending revision)
General H. H. "Hap" Arnold Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f5/Arnold.png)
For completion of the 2nd achievement (A1C-Airman First Class).
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
General J. F. Curry Achievement
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/dd/Curry.png)
Awarded by National Headquarters to denote the level of achievement in the CAP cadet program.
For successfully completing the specific requirements of Achievement 1 in Phase I of the cadet program. You must successfully complete the Physical Training test, leadership chapter 1, and have participated in at least 1 moral leadership class.
CAPR 39-3, revised 1 July 98
Air Force Association Award to Unit Cadet of the Year
The "Air Force Association Award to Outstanding CAP Cadets". An annual award established by the Air Force Association (AFA) to recognize the outstanding CAP cadet in each squadron.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Air Force Sergeants Association Award to Unit Cadet NCO of the Year
The "Air Force Sergeants Association Award to Outstanding CAP Cadet Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. An annual award established by the Air Force Sergeants Association to recognize the outstanding CAP cadet NCO in each squadron.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
VFW Award for Unit Cadet Officer of the Year
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
VFW Award for Unit Cadet NCO of the Year
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Red Service Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/16/Redsvc.gif)
The Red Service Ribbon is given to any member of the Civil Air Patrol who has been a member of the program for two years (as a cadet or senior member in good standing.) In addition, the following devices are awarded for additional years of service.
(1) First Bronze Clasp. Awarded at the end of 3 additional years (total of 5 years).
(2) Additional Bronze Clasps. One additional bronze clasp will be awarded for each additional 5 years of service. A maximum of three bronze clasps (denoting 15 years of service) will be worn.
(3) Longevity Device. A metal number, denoting years of service, awarded at the end of 20 years and in increments of 5 years thereafter. The longevity device is worn centered on the red service ribbon and the bronze clasps are no longer worn.
Rescue "Find" Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/Find.gif)
For making a find in an actual rescue mission.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Search and Rescue Participation Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/08/Sar.gif)
For serving in an actual search and rescue (S&R) mission.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Disaster Relief Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/81/Disrel.png)
For completion of disaster relief missions and other special training involved.
"V" device for a presidential declared disaster mission.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Community Service Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e4/Ccs.png)
The Cadet Community Service Ribbon is awarded to cadets who complete 60 hours of community service. The community service is done outside of Civil Air Patrol, and is verified by somebody other than the cadet.
International Air Cadet Exchange Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Iace.gif)
For participation in IACE
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
National Drill Competition Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/63/Ncc.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
National Cadet Color Guard Competition Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f5/Ncgc.gif)
For being a wing champion (or higher) in the NCCGC.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Cadet Advisory Council Service Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5f/Cac.gif)
The Cadet Advisory Council Ribbon is awarded to the primary members of an advisory council. The shoulder cord is worn while that member is the primary representative, while the ribbon continues to be worn even after the cadet is no longer on the CAC.
- WING LEVEL: The ribbon would have a bronze star attachment and worn with the red cord.
- REGION LEVEL: The ribbon would have a silver star and would be worn with a blue shoulder cord.
- NATIONAL LEVEL: The ribbon would have a gold star attached along with a gold shoulder cord.
Cadet Special Activities Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/37/Csa.png)
For participation in national special activities about Air Force, aviation, leadership, or technology careers.
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Encampment Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8e/Encamp_-_2.png)
The Encampment Ribbon is awarded to all cadets who complete a Civil Air Patrol Encampment successfully. It is also awarded to cadet staff members and senior members who provide leadership for the encampment. In Civil Air Patrol the Encampment is considered to be the program equivalent of basic training or boot camp. Most encampments last one week, and may take place on a military base.
Cadet Recruiter Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Crec.png)
The Cadet Recruiter Ribbon is given to cadets who recruit two or more people into the Civil Air Patrol. For each additional two cadets recruited, a bronze clasp may be worn on the ribbon. Once a cadet earns five bronze clasps, they may be replaced with a silver clasp. Bronze clasps are no longer worn after a silver clasp in received. For every ten new cadets recruited after this, an additional silver clasp may be worn on the ribbon.
Senior awards
Silver Medal of Valor
Bronze Medal of Valor
Distinguished Service Medal
Exceptional Service Award
Meritorious Service Award
Commander's Commendation Award
Certificate of Recognition for Lifesaving
National Commander's Unit Citation Award
Unit Citation Award
National Commander's Citation
The National Commander's Citation is to the Senior program what the Falcon was to the Cadet Program. After earning the Wilson, a member could complete Air War College (And some other requirements) and earn this award. The ribbon looks like the Wilson upside down, but after looking at the original ribbons you will understand the color pattern. Additional information can be found at http://www.dafab.us/CAPCode/CAPRibbons.htm
Gill Robb Wilson Award (Level V)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c4/Wilson.gif)
The Gill Robb Wilson Award is the fifth level of training offered to senior members, requiring three years' management experience, teaching experience and extensive training.
Paul E. Garber Award (Level IV)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6d/Garber.gif)
The Paul E. Garber Award shows a member has received sufficient training and experience to be considered for promotion to lieutenant colonel.
Grover Loening Award (Level III)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c7/Loenig.gif)
The Grover Loening Award is given to senior members who have achieved sufficient training and experience to be considered for promotion to major.
Leadership Award (Specialty Training)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7a/Leader.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Membership Award (Level I)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6a/Member.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
A. Scott Crossfield Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/Crossf.png)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
BR General Chuck Yeager Award
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/Yeager.gif)
An aerospace education award for Senior Members
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Falcon Award
The Falcon Award, discontinued in 1979. It was the next achievement after the Spaatz Award. As Cadet Colonel is the highest authorized cadet rank, a Falcon Award recipent did not recive a promotion. Senior Members who earned the Falcon Award may wear it with their other ribbons. There were three ways to earn the Falcon: 1/ Become a senior member, 2/ Participate in the Advanced AFROTC program, 3/ be at the AF Academy.
Command Service Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fb/Cmdsvc.png)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Red Service Ribbon
For being in the program for more than 2 years.
Search "Find" Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/Find.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
For making a find in an actual rescue mission.
Air Search and Rescue Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/08/Sar.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Counterdrug Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9e/Coudru.png)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Disaster Relief Ribbon
Cadet Orientation Pilot Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/69/Opilot.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
International Air Cadet Exchange Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Iace.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
National Drill Team Competition Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/63/Ncc.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
National Cadet Color Guard Competition Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f5/Ncgc.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
National Cadet Special Activities Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/37/Csa.png)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
For attending a national special activity. Such as Hawk Mountain Ranger School, PJOC, or National Powered Flight Encampment.
Encampment Ribbon
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8e/Encamp_-_2.png)
The Encampment Ribbon is awarded to all cadets who complete a Civil Air Patrol Encampment successfully. It is also awarded to cadet staff members and senior members who provide leadership for the encampment. In Civil Air Patrol the Encampment is considered to be the program equivalent of basic training or boot camp. Most encampments last one week, and may take place on a military base.
Senior Recruiter
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/67/Senrec.gif)
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
War Time Service Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Coastal Patrol Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Liaison Patrol Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Tow-Target & Tracking Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Courier Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Forest Patrol Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
Missing Aircraft Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
World War II Service Ribbon
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. |
External links
- CAP's official web site
- CAPR 39-3.pdf – Award of CAP medals, ribbons and certificates
- Ribbon Bar creator as pointed to by CAP.GOV website
- Ribbon checker for Seniors
- Ribbon checker for Cadets