CAP has three missions: Aerospace Education, Cadet Programs, and Emergency Services. As part of Aerospace Education, cadets are allowed to pilot five powered and five not powered flights. Cadet Master Sergeant Niece, instructed by a pilot, flew for the first time in October 2020.

 

Also through CAP, she attended Civil Air Patrol Basic Encampment in the summer of 2019 and was given the opportunity to work at the Atlantic City Air Show. Every week, Gianna leads cadets in Drill and teaches and presents to them in the classroom, both in-person and on Google hangouts. CAP embodies the four core values of Integrity, Volunteer Service, Excellence, and Respect.

 

“In the program, we break each one down and give simpler/relevant examples of how to use those and incorporate them into everyday life,” Gianna explained. The CAP program is for young men and women ages 12-21; Gianna joined in April 2019 when she was 16 years old. She first learned about CAP through her brother, Joseph (BC’15), who was in the program and is now an Officer in the United States Army. “Because my brother is in the Army, I was curious what it was like to be in the military,” she said. “CAP gives younger students a great introduction and a taste of what it would be like, especially for those interested in joining the Air Force,” she explained. “I loved it from the minute I started. My only regret is I wish I joined earlier.”

 

Gianna is considering applying for an Army ROTC program in college and she recently applied for the ROTC national scholarship. “I suggest CAP to anyone who has interest in any branch of the military,” she continued, “as it gives structure, leadership, and shapes you into a better person overall. I would love to talk to anyone who has questions about the program; feel free to email me at [email protected].”