Week of Oct 18-24

This is your official Air Force Academy History Update for the Week of October 18th through the 24th —  

This week, back in 1922 — Army Brigadier General Billy Mitchell, namesake of the cadet dining hall and exemplar for the Class of ‘01, becomes the first U.S. military pilot to hold a recognized absolute speed record.  He set a mark of 222.97 miles per hour in the Curtiss R-6 aircraft at Selfridge Field, Michigan.  This was also the first time that the world speed record was certified outside of France. 

…Also this week, back in 1962 –– The formal Presentation Dinner for the football stadium is held at the Broadmoor International Center.  More than 700 people attended the event, at which comedian Phil Harris performed. 

…And, this week back in 1984 –– The Charlie Daniels Band performs at the Academy.  The band had also performed at the Academy in February 1982 and February 1983. 

…Finally, this week back in 2020 — Lieutenant Colonel Jared Santos, Class of ’00, becomes the first U.S. Air Force pilot to reach 1,000 flying hours in the F-35A “Lightning II.”  He was assigned to the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. 

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