MS SC601

Commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Civil Air Patrol, founded December 1, 1941, as a volunteer civilian aviation organization that supported America's World War II efforts through reconnaissance missions and submarine patrol operations.

Recognizes the Civil Air Patrol's historical contributions including spotting 143 German submarines, attacking 57, and sinking two during World War II, while sustaining 64 deaths and 150 lost aircraft by war's end.

Honors the Civil Air Patrol's modern missions including search and rescue operations (saving 113 lives in 1,016 missions), disaster relief, emergency services, and participation in 90 percent of the Air Force's inland search and rescue missions.

Acknowledges the Civil Air Patrol's youth programs serving over 26,500 cadets, aerospace education initiatives, and chaplain corps of 868 members supporting deployed military personnel and disaster victims.

Recognizes Mississippi Wing's contributions with 336 officers and 179 cadets performing 12 search and rescue missions, six counterdrug missions, and flying 1,589 total hours in 2011.