Week of May 10th – 16th

This is your official Air Force Academy History Update for the Week of May 10th through the 16th — 

This week, back in 1942 — President Franklin Roosevelt orders the Air Medal to be established to award any person who, while serving in the armed forces after September 8, 1939, distinguishes or had distinguished him or herself by meritorious achievement in an aerial fight.  Since then, Academy graduates have earned hundreds of Air Medals. 

…Also this week, back in 1963 — The Air Force Academy Band and the Glee Club perform a show in Arnold Hall consisting of music from Walt Disney’s films.  The program included selections from Pinocchio, Fantasia, and Alice in Wonderland. 

…And, this week back in 1997 –– Charles Precourt, Class of ’77, is the only Air Force Academy graduate to serve as a crew member on Space Shuttle mission STS-84.  He was commander of the flight, aboard the Space Shuttle orbiter Atlantis. 

…Finally, this week back in 2017 — Brigadier General Kristin Goodwin, Class of ’93, assumes command of the Cadet Wing during a ceremony on the Terrazzo near the class wall.  She succeeded Brigadier General Stephen Williams, Class of ‘89.  General Goodwin was the Academy’s 28th Commandant of Cadets, and the 16th Academy graduate to hold the position. 

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