CAP Leadership

The Learn to Lead Volume 1, Chapter 4 module, “The Art and the Science”, is the fourth of eleven leadership modules, which combined, make up the first three phases of Civil Air Patrol's Leadership Program for cadets. This is an audio book recording version of this chapter of the Learn to Lead textbook. Professionalism is not the job you do, but how you do it. When there are new recruits to train, the armed services turn to the non-commissioned officer corps. Indeed, NCOs are experts in drill, the uniform, and fitness, but even more their professionalism makes a lasting impression. Air Force pilots know their aircraft are mission-ready because they trust in the professionalism of the NCOs who maintain them. When a fighter jet is low on fuel, it will be an NCO committed to an ideal of professionalism who refuels it from an altitude of 30,000 feet. Even when the Air Force needs to transform officer trainees into lieutenants, the NCOs’ professionalism makes them ready for the challenge.

The Learn to Lead Volume 1, Chapter 1 module, “Airforce Traditions”, is the first of eleven leadership modules, which combined, make up Phases one and two of Civil Air Patrol's Leadership Program for cadets. This is an audio book recording version of this chapter of the Learn to Lead textbook. To remain a strong nation, America needs leaders who stand up for what is right. We need leaders who put the team’s needs ahead of their own. Our nation will always face problems, so we need leaders who think creatively. And we need leaders whose skills of persuasion motivate others to follow their lead. Leaders propel America forward. Without leadership, even the most technologically advanced military will stumble, as will every school, business, and squadron, every church, club, and family. America’s continued success depends on today’s young people becoming the leaders we need them to be.

The Learn to Lead Volume 1, Chapter 2 module, “The Cadet and the Team”, is the second of eleven leadership modules, which combined, make up Phases one and two of Civil Air Patrol's Leadership Program for cadets. This is an audio book recording version of this chapter of the Learn to Lead textbook. CADETS ARE LEADERS IN TRAINING. Their history dates back to the 15th century, originating in the courts of French kings.1 In Renaissance France, distinguished families would send their young sons to the palace where they would learn how to conduct themselves as gentlemen, leaders, and patriots. After gaining some maturity and experience, they won commissions as military officers. America rejects the rule of kings and queens, but has kept faith in cadets. Eager to cast-off the ways of the Old World, George Washington refused to allow people to address him as, “Your Majesty.” How many other traditions of the European court would die? Not the noble rank of “Cadet.”

The Learn to Lead Volume 1, Chapter 3 module, “The Art and the Science”, is the third of eleven leadership modules, which combined, make up the first three phases of Civil Air Patrol's Leadership Program for cadets. This is an audio book recording version of this chapter of the Learn to Lead textbook. What qualities make someone great, and who deserves to be followed? As young people begin to find their way in the world, these questions confront them. What distinguishes cadets is their willingness to answer. If there are certain truths in life – mathematical, philosophical, poetical – there must be a truth explaining what elevates an individual and allows them to fulfill their potential. This chapter considers what makes leaders extraordinary. They seem to display something special that sets them apart, but what? As young people who mean to lead, cadets need to figure out what gives leaders the edge, so they might know which qualities to develop in themselves.