visit air force academy

United States Air Force Academy

Price & Hours

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 4.5

With a sprawling campus set against the Rampart Range north of Colorado Springs, the U.S. Air Force Academy is a functioning educational institution for future members of the military. Parts of the campus are open to the public and well worth a visit. The visitor center, a 31,600-square-foot facility, is a key stop for all guests. Walk through the informative exhibit about cadet life, which includes a life-size reproduction of a cadet dorm room (student dorms are not open to the public). Also learn about the different types of cadet uniforms and squadron patches; watch a 21-minute film about the Academy; and see a model of the stunning Cadet Chapel. Alas, the real chapel – with its imposing spires and beautiful stained glass – is undergoing a massive renovation and is hidden from view by a giant white box. It's scheduled to reopen to visitors in 2027.

The Planetarium is open to the public Fridays through Mondays and offers free shows; see the schedule here . Arnold Hall, the cadet social center, is also open to visitors; this is the place to go if you need a bite to eat. Travelers suggest picking up the map of key sites and walking trails at the visitor center before setting out on your own. However, some of the key overlooks are found prior to your arrival at the visitor center, so you may want to check out the online self-guided tour , too. The paved Chapel Trail – which is worth taking for views of the cadets' living quarters and classroom area – is short, but some past guests note that it can feel strenuous at the high altitude. You can also get to the overlook by driving to the parking area at the Planetarium.

The U.S. Air Force Academy is located about 15 miles north of downtown Colorado Springs. Visitors must enter through the North Gate (exit 156 on Interstate 25). Everyone in the vehicle 18 and older must present a valid ID for security reasons. You may also be asked to participate in a vehicle inspection. The visitor center is open to the public every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free. You can find more information on the Air Force Academy  website .

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U.S. News Insider Tip: Since the park is free to enter, consider exploring Garden of the Gods multiple times during your stay to see the rock formations at different times of day. The light just after sunrise and before sunset makes them especially striking and photogenic. – Kara Williams

It's easy to see how this natural landmark earned such an ethereal title: These magnificent red rock formations look as though deities could've carved them. However, the sandstone pillars are, in fact, the work of geological activity and erosion over millennia. You can learn about the garden's formations at the Visitor and Nature Center, which houses numerous informative displays and hosts daily presentations. You are welcome to explore the park on your own time (either on foot or by bike) or take a guided nature walk from the visitor center for a fee. The park partners with Adventures Out West to provide Jeep, trolley and Segway tours; it works with Amp'd Adventures for guided electric bike tours. (Note: Tour prices vary by vehicle and tour length.) Or, if you're looking for a more authentic Wild West experience, you can reserve your spot on a guided horseback tour offered by Academy Riding Stables .

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Updated: April 29, 2024

The Top 11 U.S. Air Force Academy Attractions

Set at the base of the Rocky Mountain foothills, the U.S. Air Force Academy is so much more than an undergraduate institution and military base.

The U.S. Air Force Academy is a collection of awe-inspiring attractions open to the public. In addition to state-of-the-art technology and modern architecture, this campus offers eleven different sites for civilians to explore. Don't miss these eleven sights while you're here.

1. Barry Goldwater Visitor Center

A must for those who have never previously been to the campus, the Visitor Center hosts exhibits of the campus, tells the history of the institution and features a mock cadet dorm room. The 250-seat theater plays a short movie on the hour and half hour. Catch the show and glimpse into everyday cadet life, complete with a snippet of the Graduation ceremonial hat toss and legendary Thunderbird flyover. Here visitors can purchase souvenirs and Academy apparel to show their Falcon pride.

2. U.S. Air Force Academy Planetarium

The original U.S. Air Force Academy Planetarium, which greeted visitors from 1959-2004, is back open after a multi-million dollar renovation from generous donations. The 50-foot dome is complete with built in 8K projectors, immersive surround sound and state-of-the-art reclining seats. Check out the latest schedule and enjoy free shows such as Oasis in Space, Great Bear Rainforest and Fighter Pilot. .

2. Noon Meal Formation

From the Honor Court, visitors can enjoy watching the noon meal formation . At 11:30 a.m., the Cadet Wing lines up numerically by squadron in front of the dormitories, Vandenberg and Sijan Halls. At the formation, 4,000 cadets march across the Terrazzo into Mitchell Hall to the Air Force song and other Department of Defense anthems, provided by our very own  Cadet Drum & Bugle Corps .

The formation is scheduled Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the school year, weather permitting. Since the formation is subject to cancellation without notice, call the Visitor Center at 719-333-2025 on the morning of your visit to find out if there will be a lunch formation taking place.

4. Cadet Chapel

Please note: The Cadet Chapel is closed for a major restoration that is estimated to last until Spring 2027.

Perhaps the most notable structure on campus, the Cadet Chapel encompasses the beauty of midcentury-modern architecture with inspiration from Air Force vessels. With stained glass symbols and historical accents, each congregation center has its own beauty.

5.. The B-52 Display

When accessing the base through the north gate, this static display will be hard to miss. The awe inspiring B-52 bomber was the backbone of America’s manned bomber force for more than half of the 20th century. Recent additions include the Air Warrior combat Memorial and an HH-3 Jolly Green Giant rescue helicopter.

6. Cadet Field House

This mega-sized sports arena is home to Clune Arena (basketball/volleyball) that seats 5,856 supporters, an ice hockey arena with seating for 2,502 fans and a six-lane indoor track that can accommodate 925 spectators.

7. Academic Overlook

Drive up North Gate Boulevard (which becomes Academy Drive) and pull over at this overlook to enjoy a scenic view of the Academy’s various campus buildings. Being one of the country’s finest higher education institutions, the U.S. Air Force Academy’s mission is to provide a well-rounded education for cadets to use throughout their Air Force or Space Force career and their individual lives.

8. Athletic Overlook

Just a few hundred yards to the west of the Academic Overlook, the Athletic Overlook provides guests a bigger picture to see just how massive the sports facilities at the U.S. Air Force Academy are. There are 150 acres of playing and practice fields that can be viewed from here. The public can attend games at the track and field, soccer, baseball and softball stadiums.

9. Arnold Hall

A student union and ballroom all-in-one location, this large hall hosts a 2,900-seat theater for cadets and the Richter Lounge Food Court , which has multiple food options catering to a wide variety of tastes. Stop by here to view displays featuring the Tuskegee Airmen, Women in Leadership and cadets who have become astronauts.

10. Doolittle Hall

This building is hard to miss, with a large Pegasus statue out front and houses the alumni association, The Association of Graduates. Following the Heritage Trail, you’ll cross the Challenge Bridge, see the Mall of Heroes, Memorial Wall, and the Southeast Asia Pavilion; an indoor and outdoor exhibit that is a stunning reminder of our role during the Vietnam era.

Don't forget to check out Doolittle Outfitters Retail Store for apparel, fan gear and more. Shop online or in person!

11. Falcon Stadium

The site of home football games and graduation, this large stadium was built in the fall of 1962 at a cost of $3.5 million. It is built in a natural bowl, has a capacity of 46,692 and stands at the base of the Rampart Range. In addition to Falcon Football, the stadium hosts a variety of sports and special events. To purchase football tickets call 719-472-1895 or visit www.goairforcefalcons.com .

For more U.S. Air Force Academy visitor information click here or check out this additional content below.

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USAFA Information

The academy welcomes all visitors to one of our country's national historic landmarks.

Whether visiting the Air Force Academy or looking for general information on USAFA and its facilities, please review these online resources for supportive businesses in the area and any heightened security updates for getting on base:

• USAFA.EDU (Air Force Academy website)
• USAFA Visitor Information (usafa.af.mil)
• Getting on Base
• Heritage Project Monuments
• Academy Cemetery and Mortuary Affairs

The Visitors Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Academy Heritage

Southeast Asia Pavilion

The pavilion along the Heritage Trail has already become a major point of interest for the Academy ...

Distinguished Grad Award

The Distinguished Graduate Award recognizes exceptional graduates ...

Honoring fallen comrades is an important part of the AOG mission ...

Everything you need to know about the 2024 Air Force Academy graduation, tickets available Wednesday

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — The United States Air Force Academy's graduation is happening on May 30. Here's everything you need to know ahead of the ceremony.

Tickets for the general public will be available starting Wednesday, May 22 at 9 a.m. The academy says that 3,000 free tickets will be available at two locations:

• Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce on 2nd Street in Monument. Open Monday – Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• Visit COS at the corner of South Cascade Avenue and Cimarron Street – Open every day including the Memorial Day holiday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• In the event graduation ceremonies relocate indoors for any reason, these publicly-held tickets will not be honored according to the Academy.

Vice President Kamala Harris will be this year's commencement speaker. With the vice president in town be aware that there could be rolling road closures for the vice president's motorcade. It is unclear when Vice President Harris will arrive or what her route will be.

Vice President Kamala Harris arrives in Colorado Springs

Vice president harris to speak at 2024 usafa graduation.

A main attraction for many people during the graduation is watching the Air Force Academy Thunderbirds take flight and perform a flyover at the end of the graduation reception. Peterson Space Force Base confirmed that the Thunderbirds will arrive on Tuesday, May 28. A practice schedule has not been released at this time.

Crowds gather to watch USAFA Thunderbirds soar during graduation

Thursday, May 30 - USAFA Graduation Ceremony Schedule:

6:30 a.m. - Gates open, Falcon Stadium

8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. - Sabre Drill, In The Stairwell, The Aerodynamics, and The U.S. Air Force Academy Band, Falcon Stadium

9:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. - Graduation Ceremony & Thunderbirds, Falcon Stadium

Parking for graduation will be held at Falcon Stadium, it is recommended that you arrive early as gates to the Academy and stadium open at 6:30 a.m. See the map below for the various available parking lots. Once the ceremony begins you will not be permitted to enter.

ADA parking is located near Lot 5, which is pictured below. The Academy says all individuals who need it must enter from the North Gate and be prepared to turn right onto Academy Drive before the Stadium as they approach.

More information on graduation can be found online .

Vice President Harris arrives in Colorado Springs ahead of Air Force graduation

Information from the US Air Force Academy

Base Entry Guidelines

All vehicles entering the base are subject to inspection/search by security personnel and you may be asked to show proof of insurance, a valid vehicle registration, and a rental car agreement. Guests should refrain from bringing large bags, coolers, backpacks, or other items that will require additional scrutiny or searches from security personnel. The North and South Gate will be open for guests on graduation day for travel to the stadium.

Allowed/Prohibited Items at Parade Field and Falcon Stadium

All persons and their personal belongings are subject to an inspection, which may result in a search. The Academy is not responsible for items left at the gates or in the trash receptacles. Storage of prohibited items is not available and security personnel will ask visitors to store the item in their vehicle. On the day of graduation, entry into the stadium is not permitted once the ceremony begins, and guests may not depart the stadium until the Air Force Thunderbirds complete their aerial demonstration. Tailgate parties are not allowed on base.

Items allowed at Stillman Parade Field and Falcon Stadium

• Food is allowed but must be displayed in a transparent 1-gallon Ziploc bag. Each ticketholder may have only one 1-gallon Ziploc.
• Sunscreen is permitted but restricted to a 6-ounce or less tube. Bottles and aerosol spray are not allowed into the stadium.
• Factory-sealed transparent soft plastic water bottles are restricted to 24 ounces in size. Water is the only beverage permitted to be carried into the parade field or stadium. Exceptions may be made for visitors with medical conditions and for infants.
• Infant diaper bags and carrier packs are permitted when an infant is present.
• More information on approved handbags

Prohibited Items

• Oxygen bottles are prohibited. However, Oxygen bottles prescribed by a physician are authorized.
• Illegal substances, including Marijuana, which is illegal on federal property.
• Firearms, knives, box cutters, scissors, or any weapon.
• Alcohol, glass containers, bottles, cans, aerosol sprays, hard-sided (or Nalgene) plastic bottles.
• Handbags larger than 12 by 12 by 12 inches.
• Backpacks, including bota bags, wineskins, and camelbacks.
• Laser pointers, fireworks, or any item deemed unsafe by security personnel.
• Unapproved banners or signs larger than 18 by 24 inches.
• Pets. Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant service animals are allowed.
• Any artificial noisemaker.
• Baby seats or large strollers. Collapsible strollers are allowed.
• Seatbacks wider than 19 inches. No armrests.

While graduation is Thursday, festivities have already begun at the Academy. On Monday, May 20, the Air Force Academy Preparatory School held its graduation ceremony.

WATCH PARTIES:

If you’re looking for a watch party, you’re in luck… Our Jake Walker has been talking with business owners in the springs. He found several watch parties you can attend. The north side is going to be the best side of town to see those Thunderbirds.

Scheels will be hosting a free watch party in their parking lot from 11 am until 1 pm. You may want to bring your umbrella. Overdrive Raceway is also hosting a free party at noon with free hot dogs and burgers while supplies last. Also, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry has a great view and it is $5 to park there. You can show up as early as 9 am for that.

We know things get canceled because of the weather all the time in Colorado, and that may be the case this year with the rain we’re expecting. There’s no time given for the flyover. Stay tuned right here for the latest.

WATCH: Air Force Academy Prep School's graduation

For more information about this year's graduation, visit the United States Air Force Academy's website .

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is released closer to graduation day. ___

2024 Air Force Academy Graduation

A huge congratulations to the 2024 Cadet Class, in case you missed it a recap of graduation and what makes this class great.

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When is the best time to visit the AF Academy?

<p>I’m planning on visiting the AFA soon, and was wondering when I should do this. Has anyone here visited the Academy? What do you reccomend?</p>

<p>the academy is absolutely awesome. the surrounding grounds on the base are naturally beautiful, and the “hill” is quite a sight to see. </p>

<p>i recommend you do this when you are able, and i think that this is a good time to do so because of the warmer weather and greener landscape. if not, then maybe this summer or this winter (that would be cool! to see a white USAFA!).</p>

<p>The first time i visited the academy was back in August '04 two full years before inprocessing (but it was my last time until inprocessing). I remember the airplanes and the landscape but what really stuck with me was I was fortunate to be at the hill when the class of '08 was basics. I saw them march and some “instruction” by the cadre. This sealed the deal for me and made me fall in love with the place. Anytime in the summer is great, especially if you get a time when you can talk to a cadet that is already here, it just helps to understand what you’re looking at. </p>

<p>If anyone knows if they’re going to be here over the summer, let one of us know and we’d love to show you around (if we can).</p>

<p>GroogWaugh, that would be awesome. I’ll probably come up there in the Summer/Fall. What year are you? Where are you from? I have some more questions about the Academy and the application process, and have yet to meet someone that is actually there now.</p>

<p>i came in november last year for a tour; it was really really brown. being from MS where it’s green Feb-November and lots of grass/trees. but coming for orientation i got to see how beautiful it’s supposed to be. but really just whenever it’s convenient; before march if you want to see real 4dig life.</p>

<p>packermatt7 - There are around 15 or so active cadets on these boards from the classes of 2009, 2010, and 2011. I, myself, am in the class of 2010, as is GroogWaugh.</p>

<p>this is definitely the place for you. nearly every conceivable question can be searched for and found, somewhere on the right side above all the threads. and there are tons here who’ll answer everything else!</p>

<p>Ill let you guys know if I’m coming out for a visit. Maybe you could show me around… Meeting an active cadet would be awesome. I’ll probably visit this summer. I’m gonna visit Embry-Riddle Aeronautical in the winter (Daytona Beach is warm that time of year, as opposed to here in Nebraska…). Embry-Riddle is my first ROTC college of choice, that is if I don’t make it into the AFA.</p>

<p>packermatt dont forget Embry Riddle in Prescott. a little closer to Nebraska. I do see the appeal of the beach though.</p>

<p>Yeah I was thinking about that. They pull the most pilots from the Daytona campus, though. And besides, the Daytona has Scuba Diving and Sailing clubs, and other water activities.</p>

<p>I looked into going to the Daytona Embry-Riddle ( I am going to USAFA as part of 2012). I actually went straight from summer seminar to there and then spent 3 weeks taking a class there. It was pretty cool and they were adding a new gym that looked AWESOME when I was there. It should be open now. I never actually applied there but I seriously considered it.</p>

<p>I love this: “I saw them march and some “instruction” by the cadre. This sealed the deal for me and made me fall in love with the place.” Sorry, that made me laugh. I think it’s ironic, but I can see where you’re coming from.</p>

<p>speaking of the academy, we all get our appointments either today or tomorrow ;)</p>

<p>finally!</p>

<p>what appontments are you refering to??</p>

<p>us preppies get our appointments to the academy either today or tomorrow, its been a long year but finally we are getting what we all been workin for</p>

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Harris addresses US Air Force Academy graduates near 80th D-Day anniversary

Vice President Kamala Harris spoke to a sea of white-capped graduates at the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation Thursday as the world approaches the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Harris told the nearly 1000 graduates, “America’s security relies on you.”

Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris accepts a gift from the class of 2024 at the United States Air Force Academy graduation at Falcon Stadium on Thursday, May 30, 2024, in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Parker Seibold/The Gazette via AP)

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The United States Air Force Academy Class of 2024 march to their seats at the start of the commencement ceremony at Falcon Stadium on Thursday, May 30, 2024, in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Parker Seibold/The Gazette via AP)

Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris, center right, enters Falcon Stadium at the start of the United States Air Force Academy graduation on Thursday, May 30, 2024, in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Parker Seibold/The Gazette via AP)

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during the 2024 Air Force Academy graduation at Falcon Stadium in Colorado Springs, Colo., Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Jerilee Bennett//The Gazette via AP)

Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris gives the commencement address at the United States Air Force Academy graduation at Falcon Stadium on Thursday, May 30, 2024, in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Parker Seibold/The Gazette via AP)

FILE - Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign event in Elkins Park, Pa., May 8, 2024. Vice President Harris will speak at the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation on Thursday, May 30, in Colorado, her first address at the ceremony that launches cadets into the Air Force or Space Force with pomp and the roar of jets. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris spoke Thursday to a sea of white-capped graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, looking back at U.S. airpower during D-Day and then forward to this generation’s edge on technological innovation, such as artificial intelligence.

“Eighty years ago, over the beaches of Normandy, America won control of the skies, and we have kept it ever since,” said Harris to the 974 graduates, the class that arrived in 2020 to pandemic lockdowns, masks, COVID-19 testing, plexiglass partitions and virtual classes.

“Our nation is counting on you to preserve and defend that strength, including, I will add, through your ability to innovate,” said Harris.

Harris praised the current roles the Air Force and Space Force are playing across the world, including U.S. air patrols deterring Russian on NATO’s eastern flank, the rivalry with China in the Indo-Pacific, weapons shipments to Ukraine and defending Israel from attacks by Iran.

“America’s national security and global security depend on our strength in the sky and in space,” said Harris to the arrayed cadets who will become second lieutenants in the Air Force or Space Force. “America’s security relies on you, I know you will make your country proud.”

Not a week before, President Joe Biden addressed U.S. Military Academy graduates, saying there’s never been a time when the U.S. has asked it’s military “to do so many different things in so many different places around the world, all at the same time.”

Harris highlighted the graduates’ technological literacy, having grown up with computers and the internet, and encouraged them to take up the torch of innovation, including around AI, as warfare evolves.

The speeches, including Harris’, were void of politics. Joking around, Harris said she waived any minor violations of the cadet disciplinary system, as the thousands of family and friends gathered in the sunbathed Falcon Stadium in Colorado Springs, Colorado, chuckled.

Harris reminded graduates that the oath they take is to the Constitution, not to a person or political party. “Even in a world of continuous change, this oath, well it remains constant,” said Harris.

The class gifted Harris an honorary membership to the U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 2024.

The commencement wrapped with graduates pitching their caps into the air as the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, roared past overhead.

“There is no more noble work than one can do than to serve our nation in uniform,” Harris said. “Today you join the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen.”

Every Student Majors in the Future

Cadets at the United States Air Force Academy receive a world-class education that prepares them for careers as leaders working for the most advanced air and space forces in the world. Whether it is as pilots, engineers, cyber specialists, space operations officers or otherwise, they’re able to make an immediate impact and shape the future of this country.

Why The Academy? Higher Education That Propels You to New Heights

The U.S. Air Force Academy is one of the top universities in the country and develops outstanding leaders and officers of character who exemplify courage, dedication and a desire to serve others as they make a difference in the Air Force, Space Force and the world.

Covered In This Section:

• Unique Education ,
• Majors and Minors ,
• Space Force ,
• Athletics ,
• Facts and Figures ,
• Cadet Life ,

#2 Top Public Schools

#7 Top National Liberal Arts College

#7 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs

#7 Civil Engineering

#9 Electrical Engineering

#10 Mechanical Engineering

A STRONG LEGACY Going Above and Beyond Takes Grit

The Academy empowers you to achieve new goals through discipline and determination. With a world-class education and supportive mentors, professors and fellow cadets by your side, you’ll turn challenges into conquests.

Space Force The Number-one School for Space

The Air Force Academy is the premier academy for those interested in joining the Space Force. It offers more programs and leadership opportunities than any other service academy and is the best place to learn about the ever-changing space domain.

How can I prepare? Don’t Just Apply, Show What You’re Made Of

At the U.S. Air Force Academy, we look at more than grades. We look at the whole person. To improve your chances of being offered an appointment, make sure you prepare academically and physically, as well as demonstrate your character and leadership abilities.

• Middle School Student ,
• High School Student ,
• College Student ,
• Enlisted Airmen ,
• International Student

Experience the Birthplace of Leaders

How does it feel to trace the footsteps of some of our nation’s most revered leaders? Come see the United States Air Force Academy for yourself and find out.

If You Have Questions, Get Answers

Our outreach programs can help you determine whether the U.S. Air Force Academy is right for you as well as help you make your application as complete and competitive as possible.

How Can You Learn More?

The majority of our events are held in the fall and spring, with fewer events in the summer months. To learn more about the U.S. Air Force Academy, check for an event that may be convenient for you.

Do i meet the requirements? The Bar Is High, Clearing It Starts from Within

Students from all over compete for an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy, making it one of the most selective universities in the country. Earning a spot begins with knowing what is required and then digging deep, not to just meet our high standards, but to surpass them.

• Academic Requirements ,
• Physical Requirements ,
• Character Requirements ,
• Medical Requirements

Commitment Spend Your Career Leading Others, Not Paying Off Debt

An education at the U.S. Air Force Academy is provided at no cost to cadets. Instead, once you graduate, you will commission as an officer in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force. The length of your commitment will depend on your career path, but the benefits will last a lifetime.

How do I Apply? The First Step Is Understanding All the Steps

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• Harris Addresses US Air Force Academy Graduates near 80th D-Day Anniversary

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Vice President Kamala Harris spoke Thursday to a sea of white-capped graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, looking back at U.S. airpower during D-Day and then forward to this generation's edge on technological innovation, such as artificial intelligence.

“Eighty years ago, over the beaches of Normandy, America won control of the skies, and we have kept it ever since,” said Harris to the 974 graduates, the class that arrived in 2020 to pandemic lockdowns, masks, COVID-19 testing, plexiglass partitions and virtual classes.

“Our nation is counting on you to preserve and defend that strength, including, I will add, through your ability to innovate,” said Harris.

Harris praised the current roles the Air Force and Space Force are playing across the world, including U.S. air patrols deterring Russian on NATO's eastern flank, the rivalry with China in the Indo-Pacific, weapons shipments to Ukraine and defending Israel from attacks by Iran.

“America’s national security and global security depend on our strength in the sky and in space,” said Harris to the arrayed cadets who will become second lieutenants in the Air Force or Space Force. “America's security relies on you, I know you will make your country proud.”

Not a week before, President Joe Biden addressed U.S. Military Academy graduates, saying there's never been a time when the U.S. has asked it's military “to do so many different things in so many different places around the world, all at the same time.”

Harris highlighted the graduates' technological literacy, having grown up with computers and the internet, and encouraged them to take up the torch of innovation, including around AI, as warfare evolves.

The speeches, including Harris', were void of politics. Joking around, Harris said she waived any minor violations of the cadet disciplinary system, as the thousands of family and friends gathered in the sunbathed Falcon Stadium in Colorado Springs, Colorado, chuckled.

Harris reminded graduates that the oath they take is to the Constitution, not to a person or political party. “Even in a world of continuous change, this oath, well it remains constant,” said Harris.

The class gifted Harris an honorary membership to the U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 2024.

The commencement wrapped with graduates pitching their caps into the air as the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, roared past overhead.

“There is no more noble work than one can do than to serve our nation in uniform,” Harris said. “Today you join the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen.”

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The incredible Air Force Academy class of 2024, by the numbers!

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (KKTV) - As they exit stage right on Thursday, the Air Force Academy class of 2024 will be ready for anything life throws at them.

Along with the usual rigors of military training, their years in school were forged by some of the most dramatic events in recent memory.

When they drove through the Air Force Academy gates for the first time as incoming freshman, the world was at the start of a global pandemic.

“It was a tough place to be at -- getting here itself was an experience, when you get here, it’s COVID-19, and the world is culturally different,” Cadet 1st Class Farug Akande told 11 News.

“I think the freshman year was definitely the hardest part because of COVID,” echoed Cadet 1st Class Faith Collins.

But they persevered, emerging on a gorgeous May morning four years later stronger, wiser, and ready to dedicate themselves to service.

“The Academy made me the person I am today, and I am extremely blessed and thankful to be able to serve my country. I don’t think I would have it any other way or change this whole thing,” said 1st Class Jeremiah Pinon.

This graduation is extra special for most cadets as it’s their first after COVID took away their high school ceremonies.

This remarkable class of 2024 by the numbers:

- 1,164 men and women were inducted into the Air Force Academy in 2020. Of those, 974 will graduate.

- Nearly a third of the cadets ( 305 ) are women.

- Nearly a quarter of the graduates ( 215) are minorities. Of those cadets, 136 are Asian, 105 are Hispanic, 70 are multi-racial, 65 are Black, 23 are Pacific Islanders, and 7 are Native American.

- 15 cadets are from other countries: Cambodia, Cameroon, Kosovo, Moldova, Panama, Pery, Philippines, South Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia and Vietnam

- 51 had a parent graduate

- 10 had both parents graduate

- 71 are the second child in their family to graduate (excluding twins)

- 3 are the third child in their family to graduate

- 2 sets of twins are graduating

- Including the class of 2024, 56,652 cadets have graduated from the academy since its first class in 1959.

- Including the class of 2024, 7,506 female cadets have graduated from the academy since 1980 (the first class to admit women).

- Including the class of 2024, 55,703 have been commissioned into the military. This breaks down to 54,883 in the Air Force, 485 in the Space Force, 143 in the Army, 102 in the Navy, and 90 in the Marines.

“There is a quote, it says if you’re leaving somewhere and you’re sad to leave you basically had a really good time when you were there, and I think I’ve been really fortunate,” said Cadet 1st Class Kelly Murphy.

Congrats to the class of 2024!

To watch the graduation ceremony, click here beginning at 9:30!

Copyright 2024 KKTV. All rights reserved.

US Air Force Academy Class of 2024 graduates

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US Air Force Academy Class of 2024 graduates

C OLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) - Nearly 1,000 cadets celebrated their graduation from the United States Air Force Academy on Thursday.

A replay of the first hour of the ceremony is available at the top of this article.

Click here for more information about this year’s graduating class of cadets.

Click here to submit pictures and videos of the ceremony, Thunderbirds and other graduation related events or memories!

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Everything you need to know about the 2024 Air Force Academy Graduation

From watch parties, to road closures, here is everything you should know about Thursday's United States Air Force Academy Graduation.

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