Week of June 21-27

This is your official Air Force Academy History Update for the Week of June 21st through the 27th — 

This week, back in 1960 — The Academy’s first Postmaster, Joe Snepenger, is confirmed by the Senate.  He had been the acting Postmaster since the office opened in June 1958. 

…Also this week, back in 1973 – Retired General Jimmy Doolittle, leader of the April 18, 1942 Doolittle Raid on Tokyo, visits the Academy.  The Association of Graduates’ headquarters building is named in his honor, and he is the Class of 2000’s exemplar. 

…And, this week back in 1997 –– Cadet Sean Gibson, Class of ’98, receives the Congressional Award during a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.  The award recognized youths for achievements in voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness and expedition and exploration. 

…Finally, this week back in 2006 — General Kevin Chilton, Class of ’76, a veteran of three Space Shuttle flights, assumes command of Air Force Space Command in a ceremony at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado.  He pinned on the rank of general in a promotion ceremony the morning of his assumption of command, thus becoming the first astronaut to earn a fourth star. 

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