​​​​​BETHESDA-CHEVY  CHASE  COMPOSITE  SQUADRON 

Civil Air Patrol Maryland Wing 

Cadet Great Start

As part of the Squadron's cadet onboarding process, prospective cadets take part in Civil Air Patrol's Cadet Great Start Program which is designed to transform "youth into Cadet Airmen, providing a strong foundation in all aspect of cadet life, leading to a successful first year as a cadet."

The Squadron enrolls new cadets into the Great Start Program 4 times each year in the months of February, May, August, and November. Each Great Start begins with a Civil Air Patrol/Squadron Open House. Over an 8-week period, prospective cadets progress as a class and are led by a special group of cadet and adult cadre who are dedicated to training new cadets. ​

Training takes place during the Squadron's normal meeting on Thursdays starting at 7 pm. In addition to the weekly meetings, the Great Start Program includes a "Field Day" which typically takes place on a Saturday or Sunday.