Civil Air Patrol is an outlet for those unable to join the military because they are too young, too old, sick or disabled. However, the organization is not only for those interested in the military.

“It does help out with the military, but there are a lot of other benefits to it also,” Cadet Capt. Austin Jones said.

Local squadron

The Chilton County squadron has been in existence for decades. Cadets have marched in the annual Peach Parade as well as serving as colorguard for ceremonies at local businesses and events.

The minimum age to join is 12, while those who turn 21 become senior members.

There are about 30 cadets and seniors currently on the roll.

The squadron meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Rescue Squad facility.

Cadets wear official uniforms on the first Tuesday of the month and cover topics including how to prepare the uniform. The second and third Tuesdays see the cadets in “battle dress,” or camouflage. The fourth Tuesday of each month is reserved for physical training, while fifth Tuesdays are “fun nights.”

Meetings are structured, and the group observes a ranking system that is designed to allow all members an opportunity to build leadership skills.

Meetings include drills, uniform knowledge, public speaking and programs on the CAP core values.

“I find it to be incredibly useful to what I want to do in my future life,” said Cadet Capt. Micah Laatsch, a Clanton resident.

Cadets are male and female and come from across the region.

Though most of the cadets are youths, the squadron also offers opportunities for senior members, such as commander Major Sam Ogilvie, who is responsible for the squad.

A Thorsby resident who works as a firefighter in Sylacauga, Ogilvie said he remains involved in CAP because of how he benefitted from the program as a youth.

“I want to give back for the opportunity that I got,” he said. “If you do this program long enough, you can go anywhere and do anything.”

For more information about Civil Air Patrol, visit www.gocivilairpatrol.com.