Encampment
Encampment is the #1 CAP cadet activity
ALMS Encampment 2019 SmugMug photo archive
Resources
For Students
CAPP60-71 Cadet Encampment handbook
Why should you attend encampment?
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It is a requirement to achieve the Billy Mitchell Award and be promoted to cadet officer.
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It is required prior to participation in many National and Wing-sponsored special activities.
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It provides an outstanding leadership and training forum for you and other cadets. It provides an opportunity to meet cadets from other squadrons and begin lasting friendships.
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It provides an opportunity for you to learn about the military and to live like military personnel for a week.
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Studies show that encampment attendance during the first year of membership increases retention in CAP. If you attend encampment, you are much more likely to renew membership after the first year.
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Encampment completion provides an opportunity to become a staff member at subsequent encampments and many other activities.
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It's fun! You will have the opportunity to participate in many unique activities that vary by year and location, such as rappelling, firearms simulation training, military base tours, and orientation flights in CAP, C-130, or Chinook aircraft!
What should you do to prepare for encampment?
Encampment is not a military boot camp; however, the training is intense. Although you will receive plenty of basic cadet training at encampment, some training is required at your home squadron before encampment. You will need to understand the basic concepts of CAP customs and courtesies, the basic concepts of CAP drill, and the basic concepts of proper uniform wear. Encampment should not be your first exposure to these subjects.
At encampment, physical conditioning is important. Each day begins early, with Physical Training (PT). All cadets participate in team volleyball competitions and other athletic activities during the week. Although you do not have to be in peak physical condition to attend encampment, a regular exercise program, to include running, will help you to prepare. You will be running almost every day. Sit-ups, pushups, jumping jacks, and leg-lifts are great exercises. You cannot run too much when preparing for encampment! Be sure to start out slowly and build up your endurance. If you are not pushing yourself, you are not conditioning! Begin a conditioning program now – do not wait until the week before encampment to start working out!
You will need to come to encampment hydrated. Start drinking water days before arriving.
Cadet staff resources
CAPP60-70 Cadet Encampment Guide
CAPVA60-111 Intensity watch out list