The Civil Air Patrol is the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force.  All of its members are volunteers and have a wide variety of backgrounds.  The organization participates in three Congressionally mandated missions - aerospace education, emergency services, and cadet programs.  Additionally, missions are occasionally carried out for the Department of Homeland Security and the Drug Enforcement Agency.  There are two types of membership in the program, cadet and senior.  Cadets are aged 12 through 21 and seniors can join from 18 and up.  The organization provides great opportunities to learn about flying, emergency services, leadership, aviation history and the military.