Civil Air Patrol Supporting America's communities with emergency response, diverse aviation and ground services, youth development, and promotion of air, space, and cyber power. Thank you for taking the time to learn about Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and the Boca Raton Composite Squadron (BRCS). Our membership consists of teenage and adult volunteers dedicated to providing search and rescue, disaster r
elief, counter-drug operations, and youth mentoring. BRCS has been fortunate to be able to hold its weekly meetings at the Boca Airport. Because of this location we attract young people, pilots and former military to join our ranks. It also it gives us easy access to our airplane, a Cessna 172, used for search and rescue, homeland security and aerospace education. The current command staff demonstrates our passion for aviation. Squadron Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Harding, is an Instructor Pilot and Mission Check Pilot Examiner with more than 3000 flight hours in single and multi-engine airplanes. CAP is known for its Cadet Leadership Programs. Cadets, ages 12 to 21, are given critically needed support, training, and guidance. They gain confidence as they acquire operational skills and leadership experience. It is one of the premier programs designed to help shape these young people into responsible, successful citizens. They are introduced to aviation and actually get to fly in our aircraft on orientation flights. As a result our cadet corps is expanding rapidly with new members every month. With Emergency Services being one of our primary focuses, Civil Air Patrol has been involved in disaster relief undertakings around the country. We conduct rigorous training throughout the year to be prepared for such events. The BRCS is a key player in Florida’s search and rescue missions including maritime, aviation and counter-drug reduction. We work with state officials in coordinating and providing fire, hurricane, cyclone, tornado, and flood relief efforts. We have performed a wide variety of missions including rescuing boaters at sea, finding downed aircraft, aerial surveillance, assisting the US Air Force with Homeland Security as well as providing first aid administration, shelter, supply center assistance and clean up during hurricanes. Remember Hurricanes Andrew, Katrina, and Wilma – we were there! Our members have received local and national recognition for their dedication and service, which saved lives.
