Cadet (n): A student in training to become an officer in the Army, Air Force, or Navy.
Cadet is the French word for “younger son.” In earlier times, the oldest son would inherit the father’s property. A younger son, having no property, often chose the Army as a career.
Well, times have changed, haven’t they? Today, the practical meaning of the term “Cadet” could apply to a couple things. It could mean a Cadet in training at the Air Force Academy, West Point, etc. But it could also mean a teenager, in training in a military auxiliary. One such auxiliary is Civil Air Patrol. Cadets range in age from twelve to twenty-one. They learn about aerospace – the science behind aircraft and flying. They learn how to fly, and can attain a pilot’s license. They learn leadership skills, and put them into practice on a daily basis. But most of all, they learn and uphold what it means to wear the Air Force uniform.
When I put on that uniform, I am no longer merely a 14-year-old civilian. It is not simply a few pieces of clothing. It is a symbol of the honor, pride, and bravery of those who have worn the uniform. When I put it on, I represent not only CAP, but the United States Air Force. I am a CAP cadet. As such, this is what it means to be a Cadet.
CAP Core Values:
1. Integrity: My character when no one else is around. Doing what is right, even when no one else will ever know.
2. Respect: I respect and obey authority, I respect subordinates, I respect total strangers who have no bearing on my life whatsoever.
3. Excellence: Rising to the challenge. Giving 110%, even if I absolutely hate the job I’ve been given, and doing it with a good attitude.
4. Volunteer Service: Taking initiative to help out – not necessarily waiting to be asked – with out expectation of reward or recognition. Doing it because it needs to be done. It’s as much about motive as actions.
These are the character traits I am expected to uphold while I’m in uniform. But having good character for two hours a week doesn’t cut it. True, when you’re not in uniform, there may not be anyone looking over your shoulder and keeping you in line. That’s where integrity comes in. Once a Cadet, always a Cadet, 24/7.
You are representing men and women who have died defending our country.
Do not let them down.
*************************************************
A Christian, a follower of God, a believer. If you are a Christian, then you believe that Jesus Christ gave his life to save you, and that he came back to life. You have accepted that gift and given your life to God. Now, what are you going to do about it?
Your family, friends, co-workers, boss, classmates, teachers – they see you as an example of what Christ and Christians are like. There’s no uniform you can wear to let the world know that you’re a Christian. You have to tell them, and actions speak louder than words. Above all, your character matters most. (Integrity!!) People watch the way you live, whether you realize it or not. Don’t conform to the world. It can be something as simple as not following the crowd. It can be hard, but it’s worth it. You, as a Christian, have found something wonderful and lifesaving. Don’t you want to share it?
Behaving and being Godly during Church on Sunday isn’t enough. If you’re a Christian, live like it. 24/7. You are representing God, who’s son died to save you from certain death, and give you a perfect eternal life.
Do not let him down.
Cadet is the French word for “younger son.” In earlier times, the oldest son would inherit the father’s property. A younger son, having no property, often chose the Army as a career.
Well, times have changed, haven’t they? Today, the practical meaning of the term “Cadet” could apply to a couple things. It could mean a Cadet in training at the Air Force Academy, West Point, etc. But it could also mean a teenager, in training in a military auxiliary. One such auxiliary is Civil Air Patrol. Cadets range in age from twelve to twenty-one. They learn about aerospace – the science behind aircraft and flying. They learn how to fly, and can attain a pilot’s license. They learn leadership skills, and put them into practice on a daily basis. But most of all, they learn and uphold what it means to wear the Air Force uniform.
When I put on that uniform, I am no longer merely a 14-year-old civilian. It is not simply a few pieces of clothing. It is a symbol of the honor, pride, and bravery of those who have worn the uniform. When I put it on, I represent not only CAP, but the United States Air Force. I am a CAP cadet. As such, this is what it means to be a Cadet.
CAP Core Values:
1. Integrity: My character when no one else is around. Doing what is right, even when no one else will ever know.
2. Respect: I respect and obey authority, I respect subordinates, I respect total strangers who have no bearing on my life whatsoever.
3. Excellence: Rising to the challenge. Giving 110%, even if I absolutely hate the job I’ve been given, and doing it with a good attitude.
4. Volunteer Service: Taking initiative to help out – not necessarily waiting to be asked – with out expectation of reward or recognition. Doing it because it needs to be done. It’s as much about motive as actions.
These are the character traits I am expected to uphold while I’m in uniform. But having good character for two hours a week doesn’t cut it. True, when you’re not in uniform, there may not be anyone looking over your shoulder and keeping you in line. That’s where integrity comes in. Once a Cadet, always a Cadet, 24/7.
You are representing men and women who have died defending our country.
Do not let them down.
*************************************************
A Christian, a follower of God, a believer. If you are a Christian, then you believe that Jesus Christ gave his life to save you, and that he came back to life. You have accepted that gift and given your life to God. Now, what are you going to do about it?
Your family, friends, co-workers, boss, classmates, teachers – they see you as an example of what Christ and Christians are like. There’s no uniform you can wear to let the world know that you’re a Christian. You have to tell them, and actions speak louder than words. Above all, your character matters most. (Integrity!!) People watch the way you live, whether you realize it or not. Don’t conform to the world. It can be something as simple as not following the crowd. It can be hard, but it’s worth it. You, as a Christian, have found something wonderful and lifesaving. Don’t you want to share it?
Behaving and being Godly during Church on Sunday isn’t enough. If you’re a Christian, live like it. 24/7. You are representing God, who’s son died to save you from certain death, and give you a perfect eternal life.
Do not let him down.
