Valkyrie Cadet Squadron

Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a Congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation that serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force (USAF). CAP is a volunteer organization with an aviation-minded membership that includes people from all backgrounds, lifestyles, and occupations. It performs three congressionally assigned key missions: emergency services, which includes search and rescue and disaster relief operations; aerospace education for youth and the general public; and cadet programs to educate future leaders. In addition, CAP has recently been tasked with homeland security and courier service missions. CAP also performs non-auxiliary missions for various governmental and private agencies, such as local law enforcement and the American Red Cross.

Nationwide, CAP is a major operator of single-engine general aviation aircraft, used in the execution of its various missions, including orientation flights for cadets and the provision of significant emergency services capabilities. Because of these extensive flying opportunities, many CAP members are licensed pilots and several cadets are inspired to become pilots.

Membership in the organization consists of cadets ranging from 12 to 21 years of age, and senior members 18 years of age and up. These two groups each have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of pursuits; the Cadet program contributes to the development of the former group with a structured syllabus and an organization based upon United States Air Force ranks, while the adult members serve as instructors, supervisors, and operators. All members wear uniforms while performing their duties.

Valkyrie Cadet Squadron was started in July 1998, when it was made clear that there was a need for a squadron in the center of the Denver area. Through the past 20 years, Valkyrie Cadet Squadron has supported Colorado by assisting in disaster relief, providing event support for nonprofits, and training the future leaders of America into strong, responsible men and women. Our members come from diverse backgrounds that range from seasoned military veterans to those with no aviation or military experience, and ages ranging from 12 to 90+ years old. The name “Valkyrie” refers to the XB-70 Valkyrie bomber, a six-engined, nuclear payload capable aircraft capable of cruising for thousands of miles at Mach 3+.

We invite everyone to come and join us at one of our squadron meetings to see how we are impacting our members' lives. If you have skills or want to develop your skills in: leadership, public affairs, administration, emergency services, logistics, communications, education, aerospace, safety, and nearly every other occupation, we have a place for you. If you are former military and want to share your knowledge and leadership skills to the next generation, we have a place for you. If you are a young person and want to increase your confidence and knowledge in a supportive environment, learn new skills, and create lasting friendships with others who will treat you with dignity and respect, we have a place for you. If you are planning toward a military career, participating in ROTC, or entering a military academy, we have a place for you. We encourage you to visit our weekly meeting to discover how we can make a difference for you.