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The Wisconsin Basic School (WBS) is the first-year program for cadets who have not attended a CAP encampment before. All new cadets should typically attend a basic encampment within their first year, and must complete a basic encampment before they can earn the Gen. Billy Mitchell Award and promotion to the cadet officer ranks. WBS gives cadets an introduction to the structure and mission of both the US Air Force and the Civil Air Patrol within a military atmosphere, while practical, hands-on activities are designed to promote teamwork and instill a sense of pride, as well as develop cadets’ social and leadership skills.
Cadets will be grouped into flights of 10-15 members, supervised by experienced cadet staff members under the watchful eye of adult Tactical Officers and other senior staff. Each flight functions throughout the week of the encampment as a team, attending classes and taking part in activities together. The entire week is designed to provide cadets the opportunity to not only learn in a military environment, but to also build their social and leadership skills. Each day is structured to allow the maximum training without overtaxing the cadets. In addition to briefings on the various commands and missions of the US Air Force, as well as classes covering topics like the special activities available to cadets and the history of the Civil Air Patrol, the encampment offers a number of other scheduled activities, including: sports (traditionally including a volleyball tournament between the flights), orientation flights in CAP or military aircraft and tours of the Camp Ripley facilities, as well as other military demonstrations. Additionally, all cadets participate in regular drill classes and daily PT sessions as well as both a final drill competition and an academic bowl (think Jeopardy!).
Cadets who excel are daily recognized as honor cadets. The week will conclude with a military pass in review (parade) and an awards dinner. Awards will be given to the flights recognized as best in inspection, drill, academic bowl, and PT. The outstanding basic cadet of the week will be awarded the Commander’s Commendation.
Some of the activities that take place during the week include:
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