NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
CIVIL AIR PATROL
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE AUXILIARY
105 South Hansell Street
22 May 2009
Dear CAP Volunteer:
Join me May 25 in observance of one of the most important days of the year – Memorial Day. It is on this day – the last Monday of May – that we pause to honor the hundreds of thousands of courageous men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have died in defense of America, in wars and other military service. Their ultimate sacrifice must not go unnoted. Because of them, we enjoy many freedoms today. They paid for those freedoms with their lives.
I encourage you to take time during this holiday weekend to honor America’s fallen heroes. Many of you, especially our combat veterans, know the importance of such a remembrance. You have fought and served courageously alongside these men and women, both at home and abroad. We salute you on this day as well.
Some of the American heroes that we remember today served their country in World War II as members of the Coastal Patrol, which later became the Civil Air Patrol. They were volunteer aviators who, inspired by the highest sense of patriotism and pride in their mission, valiantly defended their homeland by acting as sub-chasers along America’s shores. Fifty-nine members of these brave aircrews died; 26 were lost at sea. Their legacy of selfless service to country led to Public Law 557, which made CAP the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force soon after the war ended.
We are proud of this legacy of volunteer service, and equally proud of our partnership with the U.S. Air Force. Whatever the need and whenever the call, you are always vigilant in your service to America. It is a commitment that now spans seven decades and one that we celebrate this Memorial Day, as we pause to remember all who gave so much.
Always vigilant!
AMY S. COURTER
Major General, CAP
National Commander
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
CIVIL AIR PATROL
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE AUXILIARY
105 South Hansell Street
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, ALABAMA 36112-6332
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