Wearing Your Uniform
👔 How to Wear Your Uniform with Pride
As a Civil Air Patrol cadet, your uniform should be impeccable — a reflection of professionalism and respect.
Your uniform is more than clothing — it's a visible symbol of your commitment to CAP's Core Values: Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence, and Respect. Wearing it properly shows pride in yourself, your unit, and the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary.
🎓 Why the Uniform Matters
The CAP cadet uniform is unique — no one else in the country wears what you wear. That’s part of what makes it special. But more than that:
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It builds self-discipline
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It reinforces personal responsibility
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It fosters team spirit
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It promotes respect for self and others
When you wear your uniform, you represent not just yourself, but your squadron, Civil Air Patrol, and the U.S. Air Force. So wear it proudly and wear it right.
🛍️ How to Obtain Your Uniform
There are two primary uniforms cadets wear:
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The Utility Uniform (ABUs)
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The Dress Uniform (Blues)
🔹 1. ABUs (Utility Uniform)
This is your day-to-day uniform for most activities.
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Estimated cost: ~$150
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Where to get it:
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Ask your squadron about free or donated uniform items
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Vanguard – CAP's official uniform supplier
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Military clothing sales stores (at nearby Air Force bases)
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Local military surplus stores
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🔹 2. Dress Blues Uniform
After completing Achievement 1 and earning your Curry Achievement, you’ll receive the Curry Blues Voucher — a $100 credit toward your dress blues uniform.
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Estimated cost: ~$150
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Actual cost after voucher: ~$50
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Tip: Some items may still be available through squadron supply or secondhand from other cadets.
🧥 When a cadet outgrows or leaves CAP, we encourage families to donate uniform items back to the squadron to support others.
🧼 How to Prepare Your Uniform
For a quick reference, see pages 7–9 in the New Cadet Guide. For comprehensive details, refer to CAPM 39-1 – CAP Uniform Manual.
Proper prep includes:
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Correct placement of insignia and nameplates
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Neatly ironed and lint-free clothing
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Polished shoes
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Proper grooming standards
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Clean and complete appearance
🔟 Ten Tips for Looking Sharp in Uniform
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Keep your insignia organized at home — don’t lose them!
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Prepare your uniform the night before you need it.
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Trim loose threads on sleeves, pockets, and belt loops.
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Use spray starch for a crisp finish when ironing.
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Use ribbon "enforcers" or cardboard to keep ribbons neat.
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Check yourself in a full-length mirror before leaving home.
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Carry a small cloth or brush for shoes and brass.
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Fix your gig line (belt buckle, shirt, fly) after car rides or restroom breaks.
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Avoid leaning on walls or furniture while in uniform.
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Ask your wingman for a final inspection — and return the favor!
💡 Final Thought
Wearing your uniform correctly is a leadership habit. It shows you're committed, disciplined, and ready to represent the best of CAP.
Lead by example. Look sharp. Stand tall.
If you have any questions about uniforms, speak with your Flight Sergeant, Element Leader, or Senior Members. They're here to help!
