United States Air Force Academy facts for kids
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| Motto | Integrity First, Service before self, Excellence in all we do |
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| Type | U.S. Service Academy |
| Established | 1 April 1954 |
| Endowment | $98.937 million (2019) |
| Superintendent | Lieutenant general Richard M. Clark, USAF |
| Dean | Brigadier general Linell Letendre, USAF |
| Commandant of Cadets | Brigadier general Gavin Marks, USAF |
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Academic staff
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570 (71% military; 29% civilian in 2013) |
| Students | 4,304 cadets (2021) |
| Location |
,
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U.S.
39°01′N 104°53′W / 39.01°N 104.89°W |
| Campus | Suburban, 18,500 acres (7,500 ha) |
| Colors | Blue Gray |
| Nickname | Falcons |
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Sporting affiliations
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NCAA Division I – MW MPSF, Big 12, ASUN, PRC, WWPA, Atlantic Hockey |
| Mascot | Falcon |
| Decorations |  Air Force Outstanding Unit Award  Air Force Organizational Excellence Award |
| Athletics | 27 varsity teams 17 men's and 10 women's |
| Website | (Military) (Educational) |
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The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is a special school for future officers in the United States Air Force and United States Space Force. It is located in El Paso County, Colorado, just north of Colorado Springs. This academy is the newest of the five U.S. military service academies.
Students at the academy are called cadets. They go through a four-year program. After graduating, they earn a Bachelor of Science degree. They also become second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force. The academy is a popular place to visit in Colorado, with about a million visitors each year.
Getting into the academy is tough. About 1,200 cadets join each year. Since 2012, about 20% of each class does not finish the program. While at the academy, cadets get free tuition, housing, food, and a monthly payment. After their second year, cadets promise to serve as officers in the Air Force or Space Force. If they leave after this point, they might have to serve as enlisted members or pay back their tuition. Usually, they serve five years of active duty and three years in the reserves.
Contents
History of the Air Force Academy
How the Academy Started
For many years, people wanted a special academy for the Air Force. As early as 1918, military leaders believed an "Aeronautical Academy" was needed. They thought it would be as important as West Point for the Army or Annapolis for the Navy.
In 1947, the National Security Act of 1947 created a separate Air Force. This made the idea of an Air Force Academy even stronger. In 1950, a special board led by Dwight D. Eisenhower agreed that a new academy was needed.
Congress passed a law in 1954 to build the Air Force Academy. President Eisenhower signed it on April 1, 1954. A group, including Charles Lindbergh, chose Colorado Springs as the best location.
Early Years and First Cadets
The first class of 306 cadets started on July 11, 1955. The main campus was not ready yet. So, they began their training at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver. There were no older cadets to guide them. So, experienced junior officers, called "Air Training Officers," helped train them.
The famous film director Cecil B. DeMille designed the cadet parade uniform. The first class, the Class of 1959, created many traditions. They started the Cadet Honor Code and chose the falcon as the academy's mascot. On August 29, 1958, the cadets moved to the new campus near Colorado Springs. The first class graduated on June 3, 1959.
Academy During the Vietnam War
The Vietnam War was the first war where academy graduates fought and died. Many more pilots were needed, so the academy grew a lot. The number of graduates increased from 217 in 1961 to 745 in 1970. Training also changed to prepare cadets better for wartime. New training areas were added, and light aircraft training began.
Many graduates served bravely. Steve Ritchie and Jeffrey Feinstein became aces by shooting down five enemy planes. Sadly, 141 graduates died in the war. 32 graduates were taken as prisoners of war. Lance Sijan, a 1965 graduate, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery. One of the cadet dorms, Sijan Hall, is named after him.
Women Join the Academy
A big change happened on October 7, 1975. President Gerald R. Ford signed a law allowing women to join U.S. military academies. On June 26, 1976, 157 women entered the Air Force Academy with the Class of 1980.
Just like in the early years, female officers helped train the new women cadets. The women cadets were first kept separate. But after their first semester, they joined their assigned squadrons. On May 28, 1980, 97 of these women graduated. This was about 10% of the graduating class. Today, women make up over 20% of new classes.
Recent Academy History
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Class of 2020 graduated six weeks early. This was the first time an Air Force Academy class graduated early. It was also the first time cadets became officers in the new United States Space Force. General Jay Raymond gave the oath to 86 graduates.
In November 2021, the U.S. Space Force opened its first unit at the academy. About 10% of future graduates are expected to join the Space Force.
Academy Campus and Buildings
The academy campus is huge, covering about 18,455 acres. It is located on the east side of the Rampart Range in the Rocky Mountains. The main cadet area is about 7,258 feet above sea level. The famous architecture firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill designed the academy.
The most talked-about building is the Cadet Chapel. It has a unique, accordion-like design. It is now a famous symbol of the academy.
The Cadet Area
The buildings where cadets live and learn have a modern style. They use a lot of aluminum, which looks like the outside of aircraft. On April 1, 2004, the Cadet Area became a National Historic Landmark.
The main buildings are around a large square called the "Terrazzo." The Cadet Chapel, with its 17 spires, is the most famous. Other buildings include Vandenberg Hall and Sijan Hall, which are dorms. Mitchell Hall is where cadets eat. Fairchild Hall is the main academic building. It has classrooms, labs, and the library.
The Aeronautics Research Center has many research facilities. These include wind tunnels and engine test cells. The Consolidated Education and Training Facility (CETF) has chemistry and biology labs. The Cadet Area also has an observatory and a planetarium for learning.
Arnold Hall is the cadet social center. It has a theater, ballroom, and dining areas. Harmon Hall is the main office building for the academy's leaders.
The Cadet Area also has many sports facilities. There are outdoor athletic fields, the Cadet Gymnasium, and the Cadet Fieldhouse. The Fieldhouse has Clune Arena, an ice hockey rink, and an indoor track. Falcon Stadium, outside the Cadet Area, is the football field. Graduation ceremonies are also held there.
Memorials and Displays
Many displays around the Cadet Area honor heroes and aviation pioneers. The War Memorial is a black marble wall with the names of graduates who died in combat. The Honor Wall has the Cadet Honor Code: "We will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate among us anyone who does."
The Class Wall shows the symbols of each graduating class. The Eagle and Fledglings Statue was a gift to the academy in 1958. It has a quote: "Man's flight through life is sustained by the power of his knowledge." There are also old aircraft on display, like an F-4 and an F-16.
The "Core Values Ramp" leads to the parade field. New cadets walk up this ramp when they first arrive. From 1964 to 2004, the ramp had the words "Bring me men..." from a poem. Now, it has the academy's core values: "Integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do."
Air Academy High School
Air Academy High School is on the academy grounds. It is the only high school in the U.S. built on a military academy. It is known for its high academic standards. There is also an elementary school on campus.
Other Campus Locations
Doolittle Hall is the main building for the academy's alumni group. It is also where new cadets first arrive. The Goldwater Visitor Center is for families and tourists. The Academy Airfield is used for cadet flight training. The Academy Cemetery is where important Air Force leaders and graduates are buried.
The United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School (Prep School) helps students get ready for the academy. It offers strong academic, athletic, and military training. Many "Preppies" earn a spot at the academy after their year there.
Honor Code and Character Training
The Cadet Honor Code is very important for cadets. It sets the basic rules for how cadets should act. The first graduating class, the Class of 1959, created the code. It has been passed down to every class since. The code is simple:
We will not lie, steal, or cheat, nor tolerate among us anyone who does.
In 1984, cadets added an "Honor Oath." New cadets take this oath after their first summer training. The oath includes the code and a promise to live honorably.
Cadets are responsible for upholding the code. Older cadets help teach about honor and investigate any possible violations. Cadets also serve on "Honor Boards" to decide if a cadet broke the code. If a cadet breaks the code, they might be removed from the academy. Sometimes, they are put on "honor probation" for a while.
The academy also teaches cadets about character and leadership. The Center for Character and Leadership Development offers classes and workshops. These programs, along with the Honor Code, help create "leaders of character."
How the Academy is Organized
The academy is like both a military base and a university. Many parts of it are set up like other Air Force bases. This includes units that provide services like security and communications. But the faculty and cadets are organized more like a college.
The Cadet Wing
All the students at the academy are called the Cadet Wing. They are divided into four classes, like college freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. But they are called fourth-, third-, second-, and first-class cadets. First-class cadets (seniors) are called "firsties." Fourth-class cadets (freshmen) are often called "doolies."
The Cadet Wing is split into four groups, with ten cadet squadrons in each. Each squadron has about 110 cadets from all four classes. Older cadets hold leadership roles in their squadrons and groups. Cadets live, march, and eat meals with their squadron. Military training and sports are also done by squadron.
Each cadet squadron has an active-duty officer called an Air Officer Commanding (AOC). This officer guides the cadets and helps with their training. There is also an Academy Military Trainer (AMT), who is an active-duty non-commissioned officer.
Academy Leadership
The leader of the academy is called the superintendent of the United States Air Force Academy. This person is usually a lieutenant general. The superintendent is like the president of a civilian university. They oversee all parts of the academy, including training, academics, and sports. The superintendent reports directly to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force.
Other important leaders include the dean of the faculty (who leads academics) and the commandant of cadets (who leads military training). These are usually brigadier generals. The director of athletics and the commander of the Prep School are usually colonels.
Military Training for Cadets
Cadets get military training throughout their time at the academy. It is most intense during their four summers.
The first military experience is Basic Cadet Training (BCT). This is a six-week program in the summer before their first year. During BCT, also called "beast," new cadets learn military basics. They learn how to wear uniforms, march, and follow rules. They also do tough physical training. They spend part of BCT in Jacks Valley, a field training area. After BCT, they officially become part of the Cadet Wing.
The first year is usually the hardest. Fourth-class cadets have many rules and demands. They must learn a lot of military knowledge. They also have strict rules about where they can go and how they talk to older cadets. Their first year ends with "Recognition," a challenging event. After this, they get the Prop and Wings insignia and more freedom.
In later summers, cadets have more training options. They can learn to fly gliders, train in cyber-warfare, or do parachute training. They can also serve as trainers for new cadets. Some cadets can even attend special courses like the U.S. Army's Airborne School. During the school year, all cadets take classes on military theory and leadership.
Academics at the Academy
The Air Force Academy is a four-year university. It offers bachelor's degrees in many subjects. Most of the teachers are active-duty Air Force and Space Force officers. Some are civilian professors or visiting professors.
All graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree. This is because of the many science and engineering classes they must take. Cadets can choose from various majors. These include engineering, science, social sciences, and humanities. About 60% of a cadet's classes are required core courses. This means they take many core classes in their first two years. Later, they have more freedom to focus on their major.
Historically, the academy focused on science and engineering. This was to prepare officers to manage complex air and space systems. The academy's engineering programs are highly ranked. However, the academy has also added more humanities courses. About 47% of cadets now choose non-technical majors.
The academy also does a lot of research. It ranks highest among undergraduate-only universities for federally funded research. Many cadets get involved in research projects.
Cyber Competition Team
The Air Force Academy has a Cyber Competition team. This team competes against other military academies. In 2017, they won first and second place against the U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval Academy. In 2019, they won a national Cyber Strategy Challenge. They also won the 2019 NSA Cyber Exercise.
Athletics and Sports
All cadets at the academy take part in sports. The program helps them stay fit and develop leadership skills. It includes intercollegiate sports, intramural sports, physical education, and fitness tests.
Physical Education Classes
Cadets must take physical education classes every year. First-year cadets take Boxing and Physical Development. Second-year cadets take Swimming and Water Survival. Third-year cadets take unarmed combat classes. Fourth-year cadets choose electives like team or individual sports.
Physical Fitness Tests
Cadets must pass two fitness tests each semester. One is a 1.5-mile run to test aerobic fitness. The other is a 15-minute test with five events: pull-ups, standing long jump, sit-ups, push-ups, and a 600-yard sprint. If a cadet fails, they must take extra training until they pass.
Intramural Sports
Cadets must play intramural sports unless they are on an intercollegiate team. Intramural sports have cadet squadrons compete against each other. Sports include basketball, cross-country, flag football, ice hockey, soccer, and volleyball. Winning the Wing Championship is a big deal for a squadron.
Intercollegiate Sports
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The academy has 27 NCAA Division I teams, called the Falcons. There are 17 men's teams and 10 women's teams. Sports include football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, soccer, and more. The academy also has non-NCAA programs like cheerleading and boxing.
Most teams play in the Mountain West Conference. However, some teams compete in other conferences. The men's boxing team has won 18 national championships. The rugby teams have also won national championships.
The Air Force Academy has rivalries with Navy and Army. The three academies compete for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy in football. Air Force has won this trophy 18 times.
The track and field team has had great success. Three women won Division II NCAA titles. Three athletes have won Division I NCAA titles. Alonzo Babers, a 1983 graduate, won two gold medals in the 1984 Olympics.
Airmanship Training
Cadets can take part in several airmanship activities. These include soaring, parachuting, and powered flight. The 306th Flying Training Group runs these programs.
The 94th Flying Training Squadron teaches cadets basic flying skills using TG-16A sailplanes (gliders). Some cadets become instructor pilots for new classes.
Cadets can also take a parachuting course. Many cadets earn their Basic Parachutist Badge by completing five jumps. Some cadets join The Wings of Blue, the U.S. Air Force Parachute Team.
A powered flight program teaches cadets the basics of flying airplanes. They use T-53A aircraft and can even fly solo. The U.S. Air Force Academy Flying Team competes in national flying competitions.
How to Get Admitted
| Race and ethnicity | Total | ||
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| White | 64% |
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| Hispanic | 11% |
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| Other | 9% |
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| Asian | 7% |
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| Black | 7% |
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| Foreign national | 1% |
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| Economic diversity | |||
| Data Not Available | |||
To be able to join the academy, a candidate must:
- Be a U.S. citizen. (Unless from a country invited by the Department of Defense).
- Be unmarried and have no dependents.
- Have good moral character.
- Be at least 17, but less than 23 years old by July 1 of the entry year.
- Meet high standards for leadership, academics, physical fitness, and health.
Besides applying, candidates need a nomination. This usually comes from a U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative. Each member of Congress can have five students at the academy at one time. You don't need to know your senator to get a nomination. There are also nominations for children of military families or Medal of Honor recipients. The application process takes a long time, often starting in junior year of high school.
Academy Traditions
Nicknames
Graduates of the academy are called the Long Blue Line. Cadets and alumni are also known as Zoomies.
Prop and Wings
The Prop and Wings is a special symbol for older cadets. It was first used by the Air Service and Air Corps. First-year cadets receive this symbol at the Recognition Ceremony. It means they have completed their tough first year. The standard symbol is all silver. Cadets whose family members served in earlier Air Force branches can wear a special gold and silver version.
Acceptance Parade and Parents' Weekend
The Acceptance Parade celebrates the end of Basic Cadet Training (BCT) for new cadets. At this parade, they get their uniform shoulder boards. This shows they have finished BCT and are now part of the Cadet Wing. They also take the USAFA Honor Code Oath.
A few weeks later is Parents' Weekend. This is the first time new cadets see their families since they arrived. After a parade, families can visit the cadet dorms.
Class Exemplar
In their third year, cadets choose a class exemplar. This person becomes the namesake for their class. The exemplar is usually a deceased Air Force hero. This tradition started with the Class of 2000. The choice is celebrated with a formal dinner.
Commitment Dinner
The Commitment Dinner happens before the second-class cadets start their fall semester. By attending, cadets formally promise to serve in the Air Force or Space Force after graduating. Before this dinner, cadets can leave the academy without any financial or military duties. After this point, leaving the academy might mean financial penalties or having to serve in the military.
Class Crest
Each class designs its own class crest (symbol). The crest must include the class number, year, the Polaris star, and an eagle. The final crest is shown during the Ring Dance. This is when second-year cadets get their class rings. The crest is then displayed on the Crest Wall on the Terrazzo.
Class Ring
The tradition of a class ring started at the U.S. Military Academy in 1835. The Air Force Academy continued this tradition from its first class in 1959. The Air Force ring is special because it is white gold, unlike the yellow gold at other academies.
One side of the ring has the academy crest. The other side has the class crest. The middle part says "United States Air Force Academy." Cadets choose their own stone for the center. They get their rings during their second-year at the Ring Dance. During their senior year, they wear the ring with the class crest facing them. After graduation, they turn the ring so the crest faces out.
100's Night
100's Night happens 100 nights before the first-class cadets (seniors) graduate. It is a formal dinner to celebrate their achievements. After the dinner, seniors get a weekend off to celebrate. While they are gone, first-year cadets decorate their rooms to celebrate.
Music
The United States Air Force Academy Band provides music for academy events. It is made up of full-time musicians, not cadets. The United States Air Force Academy Drum and Bugle Corps is made up of cadets. They perform at football and basketball games.
Notable Alumni
See also
In Spanish: Academia de la Fuerza Aérea de los Estados Unidos para niños
- United States service academies
- List of colleges and universities in Colorado
- Air Force Academy, Colorado
- Jabara Award
- KAFA-FM radio
Images for kids
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Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
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Air Force Organizational Excellence Award
