Historical information

The Civil Air Patrol is the official USAF auxiliary. Formed during WW 2, it is currently tasked with search and rescue, communications, civil defense and aerospace education (via the CAP Cadet program)

Significance

The Civil Air Patrol, while formed in WW2, became the auxiliary of the USAF when the air force was formed as a separate service in 1947. The uniform is based on the USAF uniform with distinguishing CAP insignia and badges. It is unusual to find CAP items in collections.

Physical description

Blue-grey wool serge USAF peaked hat with black patent leather peak (with light grey underside). Black leather chin strap secured by two 16 mm diameter metal buttons embossed with the USAF insignia. Dark blue hat band. Mid grey head band and light tan lining. Maunufacturer's label stapled and sewn to head band. Metal tab support for front of crown and metal strip reinforcement to edge of crown. Civil Air Patrol pressed copper alloy cap badge incompletely attached to hat.

Inscriptions & markings

Manufacturer's Label - "100% ALL WOOL. EXCLUSIVE OF ORNAMENTATION. MFG WPL. No. 9379. 7 1/8.