United States Air Force Academy

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Prepare for Take Off

Graduation 2025

Cadets hat toss after being dismissed.
Your Journey to the

Long Blue Line

Graduation Week is comprised of many activities and events across the U.S. Air Force Academy. Cadets and their guests take part in receptions, awards ceremonies, baccalaureate services, concerts, parades, air demonstrations, and commissioning ceremonies.

The week culminates at Falcon Stadium with the iconic graduation ceremony. Commencement speakers often include the president of the United States, vice president, secretary of defense, secretary of the Air Force and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. At the close of the ceremony, cadets are dismissed and ceremoniously toss their caps into the air. Celebration is quickly silenced by the roar of the legendary Thunderbirds overhead to honor the graduating class.

War­­fighters to Win

Combat-Ready Officers
After commissioning, our cadets are ready to lead and operate effectively on Day One. During our rigorous 47-month curriculum they develop expertise in mission planning and tactical decision-making.

In Basic Cadet Training they are exposed to military customs, discipline and physical conditioning. Immersive field training exercises test their ability to navigate, communicate and make decisions in a simulated combat scenario.

They leave the Academy with a warfighting mindset. Through a constant awareness of potential threats, their physical and mental readiness and leadership abilities, they are prepared to effectively engage and defeat an enemy in combat.

U.S. Air Force Academy logo on silver class color.
Cadets at graduation with sashes.
Traditional Prop and Wings insignia, currently used at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Female cadet during graduation.
Adedapo Adeboyejo '24, Academic Major / Academic Minor

Adedapo Adeboyejo, Class of ’24
Systems Engineering

“The Academy was the place I needed to grow mentally, physically, spiritually, and areas I couldn’t have planned. USAFA will push you to become a better leader, friend, scholar, and a better servicemember. Thankful for this experience of a lifetime!”

Leaders of Character & Quality

Integrity. Service. Excellence.
Leaders of character and quality make the right decision, the right way, even if unpopular.

They are grounded in our core values that prepare them to lead their fellow Airmen or Guardians in integrity, purpose and resilience. They value teamwork, hold each other accountable and build each other up to exceed the standards.

They leave the Academy with a strong moral compass and prepared to make sound decisions in our nation’s defense. When faced with the fog and friction of way, they will uphold our high standards and our honor.

Cadet smiling during the U.S. Air Force commencement ceremony.
U.S. Air Force second lieutenant shoulder boards.
Fledglings sculpture at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Female cadet during graduation.
James Landy '23, Political Science, Foreign Area Studies

James Landy, Class of ’23
Political Science, Foreign Area Studies
Spanish Minor

“Despite initial uncertainty about joining the Air Force, it remains the best decision of my life. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunities, community, and purpose the Academy gave me.”

Critical Thinkers to Adapt

Robust problem solvers
On modern-day and future battlefields, our leaders meet and dismantle challenges with adaptability, insight and logic.

While at the Academy, our cadets learn to think under pressure in high-intensity environments. They develop a problem-solving toolkit to equip them to innovate solutions to wicked-hard problems and exercise mission command.

Our graduates are critical thinkers who adapt and look beyond the immediate and obvious answers. They are strategists who envision and create a better world, redefining what’s possible.

United States flag flying over the terrazzo.
Cadet smiling after receiving her diploma during the U.S. Air Force Academy commencement.
Hat toss after graduation with cadets cheering and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flying in formation.
U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flying in formation.
Joseph Toronto '24, Astronautical Engineering

Joseph Toronto, Class of ’24
Astronautical Engineering

“Life is about becoming more than we are, and the Academy will truly push you to become greater. Why aim any lower?”

Tiffany Li '24, Biochemistry / Chinese Minor

Tiffany Li, Class of ’24
Biochemistry
Chinese Minor

“I am grateful for the journey the Academy has given me, turning challenges into strength and ambition into purpose. Thanks to the Chemistry Department and my amazing friends—I am proud to be part of this legacy!”