[2] The Civil Air Patrol has three primary missions set forth by the United States Congress: emergency services, cadet programs, and aerospace education.

In May 2020, the Virginia Wing began assisting the Virginia National Guard in its response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic by transporting coronavirus tests to and from the Eastern Shore.

[6] Virginia Wing cadets take part in activities including camping trips, model rocket launches, and fundraisers.

Cadets often serve as radio operators, ground team members, and mission base staff.

[7] The Civil Air Patrol provides aerospace education to the public and its own members.