US Air Force Academy

• Establishment: The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) was established in 1954 to train officers for the newly independent United States Air Force, which had separated from the Army in 1947. • Location: The Academy is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains, covering 18,500 acres. • Cadet Chapel: The Academy’s Cadet Chapel is an architectural icon, completed in 1962, and is known for its 17 spires and unique modern design. It is a National Historic Landmark. • First Class: The first class of 306 cadets was admitted in 1955, graduating in 1959. Since then, over 50,000 officers have graduated from the Academy. • Honor Code: USAFA cadets pledge to live by the Honor Code: “We will not lie, steal, or cheat, nor tolerate among us anyone who does.” • Falcon Mascot: The official mascot of the Academy is the falcon, chosen for its speed and aerial skills. Live falcons are trained and appear at Academy events. • First Female Cadets: In 1976, the Academy admitted its first female cadets, with the first class of women graduating in 1980. • Athletic Distinction: The Academy is known for its competitive athletics, especially football, and is a member of the NCAA Division I Mountain West Conference. • Thunderbirds Connection: Many USAFA graduates have gone on to join the Air Force Thunderbirds, the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team. • Wing Open: The annual “Wing Open” boxing competition is a long-standing Academy tradition, with cadets competing for the right to represent the Academy in national competitions.