CAP Members,

Bottom line up front: Our Air Force partners have entrusted CAP with significant privileges. Protecting that trust requires every member to follow uniform policies, respect exchange personnel, and represent the organization professionally. 

One of the greatest privileges we enjoy as members of Civil Air Patrol is the opportunity to wear the United States Air Force uniform. Wearing the Air Force uniform also carries an expectation of professional conduct. 

Our Core Values should guide every interaction, including when working with exchange employees and military personnel. All interactions with exchange personnel must reflect both Air Force and CAP's Core Values.  If questions or issues arise, address them respectfully through our CAP chain of command. Remember, we represent not only ourselves, but the entire Civil Air Patrol organization when we interact with others. 

Do not attempt to buy Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Space Force uniform items. Members are authorized to purchase uniform items we are allowed to wear according to CAPR 39-1, The Civil Air Patrol Uniform. The authorization to wear the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) uniform is limited to the specific guidance provided by the Air Force. 

Do not try to purchase the Improved Hot Weather Combination Uniform (IHWCU) at AAFES. This uniform is in short supply and needed by deployed troops. Use alternative sources such as Vanguard, Amazon, Propper, Kal-rec, donations, Airman’s Attic, and personnel leaving the military as sources for uniforms.

Members are reminded that authorized uniform purchases must be made through Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) locations on Air Force installations. CAP members are not authorized to purchase uniforms through Army, Navy, Marine Corps, or other military exchange systems. 

Our Air Force partners have entrusted us with the privilege of wearing their uniform because they believe in the value of Civil Air Patrol and the professionalism of our members. Let us honor that trust every day through our appearance, conduct, and commitment to standards. If you are uncertain about what is authorized, please ask before making a purchase. If you do not meet the height/weight requirements, do not wear the Air Force style uniform.

There is a distinction between what we can do and what should be done. Look sharp, follow the rules, and represent CAP with pride! Thank you for your commitment to professionalism and all you do to serve America's communities, save lives, and shape futures. 

Respectfully, 

Major General Regena M. Aye, CAP

CEO/National Commander