The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) established the Air Force Academy Distinguished Service Award (DSA) in February 1999. Each year, the USAFA DSA is presented by the Superintendent to a military person, civilian, or group, whose contributions have had a distinct impact on the morale or well-being of the Air Force Academy. Any individual or group who has contributed significantly and directly to the morale or well-being of the Academy through the generous donation of time, resources, or influence is eligible.

Selection Criteria

Award selection is based on an individual’s or group’s accomplishments, which can be described as having had a long-term, positive effect on the morale or well-being of the Academy. Former military and civilian employees are eligible upon termination of employment from the Air Force Academy. However, the USAFA DSA is intended to recognize those individuals who contribute not as part of their official duty but through their personal generosity and dedication to the institution. Personnel currently assigned to the Academy can be considered for the award so long as their contributions were performed outside of their official duties.

Year	Recipient
1999	Colorado Springs Citizens Committee Lieutenant General (Retired) A. P. Clark
2000	Mr. Harold U. Littrell
2001	Brigadier General (Retired) Philip J. Erdle
2002	The Olmsted Foundation
2003	Colonel (Retired) Joseph and Doctor Dorothy Moller
2004	No Award Presented
2005	Major General (Retired) William Lyon
2006	Academy Top 3
2007	Brigadier General (Retired) Malham M. Wakin
2008	General (Retired) James P. McCarthy
2009	Mr. A. Bart Holaday ’65
2010	Lieutenant General (Retired) Benjamin N. Bellis ’85
2011	Colonel (Retired) Jock C. H. Schwank ’60
2012	Mr. Edward E. “Ted” Legasey ’67
2013	Dr. Jimmy Covey ’68
2014	Mr. John M. Fox ’63
2015	The Air Force Academy Foundation
2016	No award Presented
2017	Mr. Carl A. Janssen, Jr. ’68
2018	Class of 1970 Gift Committee (aka, the ’70 Heritage Committee) Brigadier General (Retired) Curtis Emery II ’70 Colonel (Retired) Gary Dahlen ’70 Colonel (Retired) Richard Rauschkolb ’70 Colonel (Retired) Michael Torreano ’70
2019	General (Retired) John Lorber ’64
2020	Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Garry W. Dudley ’68

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in conjunction with the Jabara Family and the USAFA AOG established the Colonel James Jabara Airmanship Award in January 1967. Each year the award is presented by the Superintendent and AOG to an active duty USAFA graduate whose airmanship contributions are of such significance as to set them apart from their contemporaries. Each major command (MAJCOM), field operating agency (FOA)–to include National Guard and the Reserve, and direct reporting unit (DRU) may submit one nomination for the award. Retired or separated graduates may be considered and should be nominated by corporate, civilian, government, or other organizations, as appropriate.

Selection Criteria

Award selection is based on airmanship contributions that are of such significance as to set the performer apart from their contemporaries. The definition of airmanship includes feats of aircrew members, as well as exceptional contributions with respect to design, production, or testing of an aerospace vehicle or its subsystems. Nominations will fall into one of the following categories:

• An individual heroic act.
• Sustained superior performance over a period of time. In this category, nominations may cover a broad spectrum ranging from crewmembers of an aerospace vehicle mission to an engineer or manager associated with the development of an aerospace vehicle.

Past Jabara Award Winners:

	*Received Posthumously **Died Subsequently
Year	Recipient	Description
1968	Capt Donald D. Stevens, ‘60	Southeast Asia
1969	Maj Terry R. Jorris, ‘61	Space Sextant (Aerospace Research)
*	Lt Karl W. Richter, ‘64	Southeast Asia
1970	Capt (Ret) Wayne A. Warner, ’63	Southeast Asia
1971	Capt Neil B. Crist, ‘66	Southeast Asia
1972	Maj Richard S. Ritchie, ‘64	Southeast Asia
1973	Capt Dale E. Stovall, ‘67	SEA/Helicopter Rescue
1974	*Maj Robert A. Lodge, ‘64	Southeast Asia
1975	**Capt Donald R. Backlund, ‘71 Capt Ronald T. Rand, ‘71	Mayaguez Rescue (Pilot) Mayaguez Rescue (Photographer)
1976	**LtCol Michael V. Love, ‘60	Test Pilot
1977	Maj Roger E. Carleton, ‘67	A-10 T & E
1978	LtCol (Dr) Wayne F. Kendall, ‘60	F-15/F-16 Canopy Loss
1979	Maj Mart H. Bushnell, ‘64	F-15 & AIM-7F Sparrow Missile Improvements
1980	Col Thomas A. LaPlante, ‘61	Excellence in System Management
1981	Capt William T. Gillin, ‘73	Dutch Liner Rescue
1982	LtCol Robert L. Brenci, ‘63	Iran Hostage Rescue Attempt
1983	Col Karol J. Bobko, ‘59 Maj Neal D. Coyle, ‘72	Maiden Voyage of Challenger B-52 In-flight Emergency
1984	Capt Michael P. Davis, ‘78	Grenada Rescue
1985	Col James N. Allburn, ‘63	X-29 Program
1986	Maj Larry E. Faber, ‘73	Save TR-1 w/ Engine Failure
1987	Capt James A. Trinka, ‘78	Save F-16 w/ Engine Failure
1988	Maj Marc D. Felman, ‘76 Capt Thomas M. Ferguson, ‘81	KC-10 Mission over Atlantic KC-10 Mission over Atlantic
1989	LtCol Robert H. Schnick, ‘72	F-16 Test Pilot for LANTIRN
1990	Capt Francis R. Gabreski, ‘81	Tactics Validation / Panama
1991	Capt William F. Andrews, ‘80	Desert Storm / F-16  Heroic Act
1992	Maj Corby L. Martin, ‘80	Desert Shield / Desert Storm
1993	Maj Ali C. Frolich, ‘80	Desert Shield / Desert Storm
1994	LtCol James A. Sills, ‘74	Iceland Rescue
1995	Capt Harold E. Waters, ‘85	RC-135 In-flight Emergency
1996	LtCol Robert P. Donnelly, Jr, ‘77	Flatyeri, Iceland Rescue
1997	LtCol David J. Scott, ‘78	F-16 Tactics Development / Leadership
1998	Capt Daniel E. Flynn, ‘91	Special Operations Excellence
2000	Maj James L. Cardoso, ‘88	Operation Allied Force, Rescue
2001	Maj Julian M. Chesnutt, ‘89	Operation Allied Force, Fighter Ops
2002	Maj Henry C. Thompson, ‘87	Operation Allied Force/Northern Watch
2003	Capt Leighton T. Anderson, Jr., ‘92 Capt Edward J. Lengel, ‘92	Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) Operation Anaconda
2004	Maj Jason L. Hanover, ‘92	AFSOC; MC-130H; OEF and OIF
2005	Lt Col Keith D. Schultz, ‘79	B-52 flight, weapon system development
2006	Maj John E. Vargas Jr., ‘96	USAFE, F-16, OIF, OEF
2008	Capt Jonathan W. Graham, ’99	AETC, Operation Iraqi Freedom MH-53
2009	Capt Travis A. Burton, ’00 Mr. Chesley B. Sullenberger, ’73	USAFE, A-10 Pilot OEF US Airways Pilot, Hudson River Landing
2010	Capt Prichard R. Keely, 04	ACC, F-15E Weapon Systems Officer
2011	Capt Michal P. Polidor, ’04	Global Strike Command, F-15E Pilot
2012	Capt Joseph A. Hext, ’02	USAFE, Op Enduring Freedom, A-10 Pilot
2013	Capt Christopher D. McConnell, ’05	Op Odyssey Dawn (Libya), B-1
2014	Capt Charles C. Napier, ’06	HH-60G Rescue in Afghanistan
2015	Capt Kyle L. Babbitt, ’08	ACC, A-10 C pilot, OEF
2016	Maj Matthew J. Kuta, ‘05	Afghanistan, F-15E Pilot
2017	Capt Brian R. Guyette, ‘08	Syria, B-1 Instructor Pilot
2018	Maj Marc P. Catalano ’06	Irag, Operation Inherent Resolve & Resolute Support, AC-130U Pilot
2019	Col Tyler N. Hague ’98 Maj Caitlin T. Reilly ‘ 07	Astronaut Operations: Inherent Resolve, Freedom’s Sentinel, & Resolute Support
2020	Capt Alexander E. Boules, ’15	A-10, Afghanistan

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) and the USAFA Association of Graduates (AOG) have established the Distinguished Graduate Award. Each year the award is presented by the Superintendent (HQ USAFA/CC) and the Chairman of the AOG to a USAFA graduate(s), whose lifetime of achievement is of such significance as to set them apart from their contemporaries. More than one individual may be selected during a particular year. The purpose of the award is to:

• Recognize outstanding performance by graduates who have demonstrated a lifetime of exceptional service to the Nation.
• Favorably promote the Air Force Academy and its graduates. Promote and increase awareness of graduate heritage among alumni, cadets, parents, and friends of the Air force Academy.

Selection Criteria

Award selection is based on a lifetime of achievement that is of such significance as to set the individual apart from their contemporaries. The Award will not be given to individuals who occupy, or are candidates for, elective office, or who are still on active duty. Individuals must be alive and agree to accept the Award at the Air Force Academy whenever possible. Posthumous nominations will only be considered in rare instances.

Year	Recipient
2001	(Ret.) Ronald Fogleman ’63 Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64
2002	Paul G. Kaminski ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Robert C. Oaks ’59
2003	Gen. (Ret.) Bradley C. Hosmer ’59 Mr. Richard T. Schlosberg ’65
2004	(Ret.) Frederick Gregory ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Ronald W. Yates ’60
2005	(Ret.) H.T. Johnson ’59 Gen. (Ret.) Michael E. Ryan ’65
2006	Gen. (Ret.) Robert D. Beckel ’59 Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Edward J. Mechenbier ’64
2007	Gen. (Ret.) Ervin Rokke ’62 Gregg Popovich ’70
2008	Gen. (Ret.) Donald Shepperd ’62 Mr. John Martinson ’70
2009	(Ret.) John Michael Loh ’60 Honorable Heather A. Wilson ’82
2010	Max F. James ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Ralph E.Eberhart ’68
2011	Gen. (Ret.) Ruben A. Cubero ’61 Mr. Richard D. McConn ’66
2012	Gen. (Ret.) Marcus A. Anderson ’61 Mr. Edward E. “Ted” Legasey ’67
2013	A. Bart Holaday ’65 Gen. (Ret) William R. “Bill” Looney III ’72
2014	Thomas J. Eller ’61 Gen. (Ret.) Kevin P. Chilton ’76
2015	(Ret.) Gregory “Speedy” Martin ’70 Paul Madera ’78
2016	(Ret.) George Lee Butler ’61 Gen. (Ret.) Charles R. Holland ’68 Mr. R. David Yost ’69 Col. (Ret.) Gary E. Payton ’71
2017	John Fox ’63 T. Allan McArtor ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Steve Lorenz ’73
2018	Gen. (Ret.) Edward R. Jayne II ’66 Col. (Ret.) Dr. H. Michael Lambert ’70 Gen. (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III ’76 Brig. Gen. (Ret.) John C. Inglis ’76
2019	(Ret.) Leslie Denend ’63 Mr. Fletcher “Flash” Wiley ’65 Gen. (Ret.) Norton “Norty” Schwartz ’73 Gen. (Ret.) Edward Rice Jr. ’78 Mr. John “Jack” Kucera ’78
2020	Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Jay Kelley ’64 Mr. Hugh Williamson ’64 Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Ronald “Ron” Sega ’74 Col. (Ret.) Gail Benjamin Colvin ’80
2021	Col. (Ret.) Leonard “Lucky” Ekman ’63 Dr. William Wecker ’63 Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Eugene Lupia ’67

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) and the USAFA Association of Graduates (AOG) have established the Sullenberger Distinguished Achievement Award through a Memorandum of Agreement. The Superintendent (HQ USAFA/CC) and the Chairman of the AOG to a USAFA graduate(s), whose singular act of achievement is of such significance as to set them apart from their contemporaries. More than one individual may be selected during a particular year.

Selection Criteria

Award selection is based on a singular achievement or a series of events within a short duration of time, which is of such significance as to set the individual apart from contemporaries. Individuals must be alive and agree to accept the Award at the Air Force Academy when possible.  Posthumous nominations will only be considered in rare instances. The criteria for the award is the following:

Exemplary performance during a singular act, or series of events within a short duration of time, where the individual demonstrated an achievement well exceeding the expectations for that period of time. For the 2023 Sullenberger Award for Courage we will accept nominations for acts within the year 2023.

• Incident exemplifies the Academy core values of – service before self, excellence in all we do, and integrity
• Act of bravery can occur during a military, civilian, business sector, or community related event
• The incident reflects positively on the Academy and is directly correlated to the training provided by the Academy

Past Sullenberger Award Winners

This award was established in 2020 and was awarded for the first time in 2021.

• 2021 Winner Lt. Col. Alexander Pelbath

The USAFA Malham M. Wakin Character and Leadership Development Award offers the institution an official means of recognizing a current or former USAFA permanent party member who has fostered character and leadership development consistent with the Center for Character and Leadership Development (CCLD) conceptual framework by living honorably, lifting others to their best possible self and elevating performance to a noble and common purpose during the current calendar year, 1 January-31 December.

The award honors Brigadier General Malham M. Wakin, USAF, Retired, who served as Vice-Dean and as head of the Philosophy and Fine Arts Department at USAFA from 1959 – 1995.

Year	Recipient
1998	Lt Gen Bradley C. Hosmer ’59
1999	Brig Gen Ruben A. Cubero ’61
2000	USAFA Prep School
2001	C1C Catherine Adams
2002	Dr. Martin Carlisle, DFCS
2003	Lt Col Mark McGeehan ’78 C1C Patrick McGeehan ’03 C1C Brian Smolensky ’03
2004	USAFA Response Team
2005	Professor Howard Eggers
2006	Mr. Phillip Gronseth ’75
2007	Coach Fisher DeBerry
2008	Lt Col Vicki Rast ’88
2009	Maj James Thompson
2010	Lt Col Brian Huntley ’88
2011	Col (Ret) Steven A. Shambach
2012	Lt Col Ryan K. Osteroos ’94
2013	Capt Seth G. Ostlund
2014	Maj Christina D. Vile
2015	Dr. Robert “Jef” Jackson
2016	Col Jennifer Block ’92
2017	Col (Ret) Tom Berry ’71
2018	Lt Col Camilo Guerrero ’96
2019	Maj Keturah Onukwuli
2020	Ms. Gina “Nikki” Mench ’02

Academic awards reward outstanding achievement in each of the four academic divisions.

Award	Winner	Class	Sq	In Memory of	Donor
Outstanding Cadet in Remotely Piloted Aircraft	Austin C. Williams	2021	27	in memory of Captain Mark Patrick McCarthy (Class of 1985)	General James P. McCarthy, USAF, Retired and Mrs. Alice McCarthy
Outstanding Cadet in Basic Sciences	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18	in memory of Lieutenant General Claire L. Chennault
Outstanding Cadet in Engineering	Emily K. Berexa	2021	14		Mr Allan Hunt (Class of 1969)
Outstanding Cadet in Humanities	Jackson R. Ayers	2021	18	in memory of Lieutenant General Barton K. Yount	Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Cadet in Social Sciences	Aryemis C. Brown	2021	11	in memory of General Joseph R. Holzapple
Outstanding Cadet in Academic Performance	Robert B. Gansrow	2021	38	in memory of Brigadier General Robert F. McDermott, USAF, Retired	The American Legion
Outstanding Cadet in Aeronautical Engineering	Matthew R. Chmiel	2021	15	in memory of Captain Zoltan J. Tober, Jr. (Class of 1965)
Outstanding Cadet in Astronautical Engineering	Jeffrey P. Fadlovich	2021	11	in memory of Dr. John von Neumann	Brig Gen (Ret) Robert B. Giffen (Class of 1965)
Outstanding Cadet in Behavioral Sciences and Leadership	Samantha A. Sommers	2021	36	in memory of Captain Richard D. Chorlins (Class of 1967)	National Ladies’ Auxiliary Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.
Outstanding Cadet in Biology	Thomas M Heisler	2021	31	in memory of members of the 384th Bomb Group who served from 1942 to 1945	384th Bomb Group, Inc.
Outstanding Cadet in Chemistry	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18	in memory of Captain Edward E. Barrow	National Society Daughters of the American Colonists
Outstanding Cadet in Civil Engineering	Kenneth R. McKnight	2021	17	in honor of Major General Eugene A. Lupia, USAF, Retired (Class of 1967) and in memory of First Lieutenant George W. Kamenicky (Class of 1969)	New York City Post of the Society of American Military Engineers
Outstanding Cadet in Communications	Spencer W. Rohlwing	2021	16	in honor of General Richard L. Lawson, USAF, Retired	Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Cadet in Cyber Science	Andrew R. Lemke	2021	8		The Honorable Michael W. Wynne, former Secretary of the Air Force
Outstanding Cadet in Computer Science	Saideep G. Reddy	2021	29	in memory of Captain Dean W. Gonzalez (Class of 1980)	USAFA DFCS Faculty Alumni
Outstanding Cadet in Eastern Language Minor	Christopher M. Meno	2021	37	in memory of General James H. Doolittle	National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century
Outstanding Cadet in Economics	Jason D. Schulz	2021	28	in memory of Major Arthur L. Moxon (Class of 1968)
Outstanding Cadet in English	Alexander W. Cooper	2021	23	in honor of Brigadier General Peter R. Moody, USAF, Retired	Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Outstanding Cadet in Foreign Area Studies	Zachary A. Flash	2021	9	in honor of Brigadier General Ruben A. Cubero, USAF, Retired (Class of 1961)	The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
Outstanding Cadet in Geospatial Science	Kaitlyn M. Benton	2021	4	in memory Of Brigadier General Robert F. McDermott, USAF, Retired	United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Outstanding Cadet in History	Mark A. Schell	2021	11	in memory of Lieutenant General Frank M. Andrews	Zebulon Pike Chapter, National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution
Outstanding Cadet in Humanities (Major)	Julia L. Rochester	2021	36
Outstanding Cadet in Intercollegiate Speech Competition	Henry J. Gilchrist	2021	4	in memory of First Lieutenant Roger F. Stringer (Class of 1961)	Family of Classmates of First Lieutenant Roger F. Stringer
Outstanding Cadet in Legal Studies	Aryemis C. Brown	2021	11	in memory of Brigadier General Marcos E. Kinevan, USAF, Retired
Outstanding Cadet in Management	Mark A. Watson	2021	27	in memory of Colonel Frank T. Birk (Class of 1968)
Outstanding Cadet in Mathematics	Thomas F. Galligani	2021	37	in memory of Dr. Robert H. Goddard	Brigadier General (Ret) and Mrs. John Andrew
Outstanding Cadet in Meteorology	Jacob A. Margraf	2021	21
Outstanding Cadet in Military History	Connor B. Lofthus	2021	16	in memory of Major Richard Ira Bong	the family of the late Colonel Robert S. Lawson
Outstanding Cadet in Military and Strategic Studies	Harley P. Morgan	2021	17	in memory of Major General Lucas V. Beau and Brigadier General William (Billy) Mitchell	Civil Air Patrol
Outstanding Cadet in National Security Studies	Dusten W. Ault	2021	29	in memory of Joseph J. Kruzel, Jr. (Class of 1967) and Colonel S. Nelson Drew	National Society United States Daughters of 1812
Outstanding Cadet in Computer Engineering Award	Jared W. Erickson	2021	22		Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, Rocky Mountain Chapter
Outstanding Cadet in Electrical Engineering Award	Kathleen E. Medill	2021	7	in memory of Captain Park G. Bunker (Class of 1963)	Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Outstanding Cadet in Mechanical Engineering Award	Kaleb D. Overby	2021	11		National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Outstanding Cadet in Systems Engineering Award	Rheagan A. Horne	2021	30		Air Force Association, Colorado
Outstanding Cadet in Philosophy	Noah B. Jensen	2021	22	in memory of Major Fred A. Brockway	Colonel James Cook and Mrs. Dörte Cook
Outstanding Cadet in Physics	Jacob C. DeLange	2021	18	in memory of Major General George O. Squier	The Order of the Founders and Patriots of America
Outstanding Cadet in Political Science	Lindsey C. Licciardi	2021	3	in memory of Captain Richard T. Carvolth III	National Society of Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America
Outstanding Cadet in Space Operations	Julia N. Baldasare	2021	32	in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Robert C. Rounding	Military Order of Foreign Wars of the United States, National Commandery
The Brigadier General John M. Andrew Award for the Outstanding Cadet in Operations Research	Miranda N. Ahlers	2021	21		Military and Security Applications Society of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences
Outstanding Cadet in Western Language Minor	Alexander W. Cooper	2021	23	in memory of Major G. Raoul Lufbery	Military Order of the World Wars, National Headquarters

Military awards recognize the highest standards of leadership, character development, and military scholarship.

Award	Winner	Class	Sq	In Memory of	Donor
Outstanding Group Award	Cadet Group 2				Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 34				Air Force Association
Drill and Ceremonies Competition Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 28			in memory of United States Ambassador Laurence A. Steinhardt and Squadron Leader Allan A. Sherlock, Royal Canadian Air Force	Ms. Laurene Ann Sherlock and Mr. Victor A. Sherlock
Military Proficiency Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 39			in memory of Colonel John H. Fowler, Jr.	Air Force Space Command
Core Values Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 19				Airlift Tanker Association
Academic Achievement Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 13				Air Education and Training Command
Leadership and Scholarship Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 18				Air Force Academy Foundation
USAFA Safety Outstanding Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 26
Outstanding Cadet Summer Wing Commander Award	Roselen J. Rotello	2021	28		Aviators’ Post No. 743, American Legion
Outstanding Cadet Fall Wing Commander Award	Aryemis C. Brown	2021	11	in memory of Captain Herbert A. Adamson (Class of 1959)	Aviators’ Post No. 743, American Legion
Outstanding Cadet Spring Wing Commander Award	Emily K. Berexa	2021	14	in memory of General of the Air Force Henry H. (Hap) Arnold	Aviators’ Post No. 743, American Legion
Outstanding Cadet Group Commander Award	Christian L. Gambale	2021	10	in memory of Major General Oscar Westover	The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Auxiliary
Outstanding Cadet Squadron Commander Award	Jackson R. Ayers	2021	18	in memory of General Hoyt S. Vandenberg	McCormick and Company
Outstanding Cadet Flight Commander Award	Alexandria M. Beckett	2021	33		Military Affairs Council of the Colorado Springs Chamber and Economic Development Corporation
Outstanding Cadet Who Best Exemplifies the Highest Ideals of Loyalty, Integrity and Courage Award	Annie J. Rutter	2021	22
Honor Chairperson Award	Jed P. Cutter	2021	15	in memory of Second Lieutenant John C. K. Milligan (Class of 1959) and First Lieutenant Beverly S. Parrish, Jr.	The Family of Second Lieutenant John C.K. Milligan
Outstanding Cadet in Character Award	Sarah E. Whitley	2021	19	in honor of Coach Fisher DeBerry	Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Cadet in Citizenship Award	Lillian V. Hess	2021	18		Rotary Club of the Garden of the Gods
Outstanding Cadet in Military Performance Award	Aryemis C. Brown	2021	11	in memory of General Walter C. Sweeney, Jr. (Class of 1959)	Reverend Walter C. Sweeney, III
Outstanding Cadet in the Order of Graduation Award	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18	in memory of Lieutenant Generals Millard F.Harmon and Hubert R. Harmon	The Order of Daedalians
Mexican Secretariat of Defense Presentation for Outstanding Cadet in the Order of Graduation	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18
Argetine Air Force Medal	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18
Chilean Air Force Award	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18

These top awards recognize the first class cadets who excel in various aspects of airmanship including soaring, parachuting, powered flight, and navigation. Selection is based upon the advice of the 306th Flying Training Group Commander and staff and considers leadership and skill performance during jumps or flights as well as total number of jumps or flights.

Award	Winner	Class	Sq	In Memory of	Donor
The Col. Jay B. Harrelson Award for Commitment and Service celebrating the Outstanding Cadet in Airmanship Award	Andrew D. Crites	2021	15		Ms. Leslie Bassett
Outstanding Cadet in Parachuting Award	Marcus A. Ross	2021	25	in memory of Peter A. Johnston (Class of 1966)	The Class of 1966
Outstanding Cadet in Soaring Award	Dylan J. Alexander	2021	7	in memory of former Air Force Chief of Staff, General John P. McConnell
Outstanding Flying Team Cadet	William J. Decker	2021	14

The tapping ceremony typically occurs each year during graduation week.  Honorees in these categories are recognized with a permanently affixed nameplate in the Arnold Hall ballroom.

Award	Winner	Class	Sq	In Memory of	Donor
Outstanding Cadet, United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School Graduate Award	Brea N. Griddine	2021	13		USAFA Preparatory School Commanders
Outstanding Former Regular Enlisted Cadet Graduating with Highest Class Honors Award	Charles T. Galloway Jr.	2021	3	in memory of Master Sergeant James D. Horner	National Society Dames of the Court of Honor
Outstanding Former Falcon Scholar Award	Jordan J. Brown	2021	17	in memory of Major General Robert J. Smith	The Falcon Foundation
100 Year Honor Roll (Top Graduate)	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18	in memory of Lieutenant Generals Millard F. Harmon and Hubert R. Harmon	The Order of Daedalians
Civil Air Patrol Award	Campbell M. Andersen	2021	18		Civil Air Patrol

Athletic awards are awarded to cadets who demonstrate superior athletic achievement and leadership abilities.

Award	Winner	Class	Sq	In Memory of	Donor
Intercollegiate Athletics Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 04
Intramural Athletics Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 19				United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Athletic Excellence Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 19				Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Most Valuable Athlete Award (Men)	Parker N. Ferguson	2021	4	in memory of Colonel John J. Clune, United States Air Force Academy Athletic Director, 1975-1991	United States Air Force Academy Admissions Liaison Officers
Most Valuable Athlete Award (Women)	Mahala N. Norris	2021	15	in memory of Colonel John J. Clune, United States Air Force Academy Athletic Director, 1975-1991	United States Air Force Academy Colorado Parents’ Club
Outstanding Cadet, Athletic Achievement Award	Nolan D. Laufenberg	2021	9	in memory of Major Jack Schwall, USAF, Retired	Lieutenant Colonel Franklin D. Roth, USAF, Retired and Mrs. Rolene Roth; Major Benjamin D. Roth and Mrs. Sarah Roth
Outstanding Cadet, Athletic Excellence Award	Maria C. Mettler	2021	3	in memory of First Lieutenant Dale A. Walters (Class of 1982)
Outstanding Cadet, Athletic Leadership Award	Kylie J. Stronko	2021	11	in memory of First Lieutenant Michael J. Mark (Class of 1975)	family and friends of First Lieutenant Michael J. Mark (Class of 23%5)
Outstanding Cadet, Scholar-Athlete Award	Jessica B. Kirkpatrick	2021	31	in memory of General Edwin W. Rawlings
Most Valuable Baseball Player Award	Paul D. Skenes	2024	9	in memory of Captain Valmore W. Bourque (Class of 1960)	Ms. Donda Foran Thomasson
Most Valuable Basketball Player Award (Men)	Christopher D. Joyce	2021	40		Lt Col (Ret) Steven A. Simon and Lt Col (Ret) Paula S. Simon
Most Valuable Basketball Player Award (Women)	Riley A. Snyder	2022	7		Women Air Force Service Pilots of World War II
Most Valuable Cadet in Boxing Excellence Award	Zachary U. Phillips	2021	30		Rampart Chapter, Association of Graduates
Most Valuable Cadet in Marksmanship Award (Rifle)	Peter M. Fiori	2022	32	in honor of the United States Air Force Academy Purple Heart Recipients
Most Valuable Cheerleader Award	Thomas C. Chandler	2021	22
Most Valuable Cross Country Runner Award (Men)	Scott A. Johnson	2021	4		United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Most Valuable Cross Country Runner Award (Women)	Mahala N. Norris	2021	15		American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters
Most Valuable Diver Award	Cole T. Armagost	2021	39
Most Valuable Fencer Award (Men)	Matthew M. Han	2023	36	in memory of Captain Harlow L. Halbower (Class of 1959) and First Lieutenant John P. Skoro, Jr. (Class of 1963)
Most Valuable Fencer Award (Women)	Erin M. Shea	2022	35	in memory of Mr. Edwin L. Purdy
Most Valuable Football Defensive Player Award	Elisha A. Palm	2021	3
Most Valuable Football Lineman or Special Teams Player Award	George P. Silvanic	2021	5		Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Most Valuable Football Offensive Player Award	Parker N. Ferguson	2021	4	in memory of Captain Martin S. Bezyack	Colonel (ret) David C. Geuting and Master Sergeant Janice R. Geuting
Most Valuable Football Player Award	Nolan D. Laufenberg	2021	9		AFA Quarterback Club of Denver
Most Valuable Golfer Award (Men)	Kyle J. Spencer	2021	25		Brigadier General (Ret) John Andrew
Most Valuable Gymnast Award (Men)	Franklin N. Valentin	2021	25	in memory of Mr. Jasper D. Ackerman
Most Valuable Gymnast Award (Women)	Daija A. Stevenson	2022	9	in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Karolen K. Fahrni (Class of 1985)	Ms. Kimberly Davis
Most Valuable Ice Hockey Player Award	William D. Reim	2023	10	in memory of First Lieutenant Hal K. Henderson (Class of 1967)	Mrs. Margo Henderson and Ms. Lisa Marie Henderson Nelson
Most Valuable Lacrosse Player Award	Matthew B. O’Rourk	2021	10	in memory of First Lieutenant Michael L. Sands (Class of 1971)
Most Valuable Soccer Player (Women)	Kayla A. Milford	2023	29	in memory of Second Lieutenant Gary K. Davis (Class of 1969)	Lt Col (Ret) Carl A. Janssen, Jr. and Mrs. Janssen
Most Valuable Soccer Player Award (Men)	London P. Aghedo	2023	20		United States Air Force Academy Colorado Parents’ Club
Most Valuable Swimmer Award (Men)	Isaac A. Gwin	2022	31	in memory of Captain Bryan A. Rye (Class of 1971)	Lt Col (Ret) William M. Griffith (Class of 1969)
Most Valuable Swimmer Award (Women)	Sefilina M. Maile	2023	8
Most Valuable Tennis Player Award (Men)	Paul R. Hendrix	2021	2	in memory of Lieutenant General Francis C. Gideon, USAF
The Carole Gilchrist Bassett Award for the Most Valuable Tennis Player Award (Women)	Meredith G. Jones	2021	13		The Bassett Family
Most Valuable Track and Field Athlete Award (Men)	Gregory D. Skage	2021	24	in memory of Brigadier General James V. G. Wilson	The Wilson Family and Friends
Most Valuable Track and Field Athlete Award (Women)	Mahala N. Norris	2021	15	in memory of Lieutenant General Claire L. Chennault
Most Valuable Track and Field Competitor Award (Men)	Samuel J. Gilman	2023	31	in memory of Mr. Arne U. Arnesen
Most Valuable Track and Field Competitor Award (Women)	Maria C. Mettler	2021	3	in memory of Lieutenant General Claire L. Chennault
Most Valuable Volleyball Player Award	Bailey R. Keith	2022	13		United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Most Valuable Water Polo Player Award	Grant C. Snyder	2023	12		Lieutenant Colonel Jeffery Heidmous (Class of 1977), USAF, Retired, and Mrs. Heidmous
Most Valuable Wrestler Award	Wyatt A. Hendrickson	2024	9	in memory of First Lieutenant Richard N. Christy II (Class of 1970)	Colonel Terry R. Silvester, USAF, Retired (Class of 1970) and Mrs. Janet Christy Silvester
Physical Education Average	Spencer W. Rohlwing	2021	16	in memory of Lt Col Paul Edward Bickle (Class of 1970)
Outstanding Cadet in Physical Education	Mark A. Watson	2021	27	in memory of Captain Dean G. Crowell (Class of 1964)

This award honors 1st Lt. Roslyn ‘Roz’ Littmann Schulte, the first female Air Force Academy graduate to be killed in action in the war on terror. It has been awarded since 2010 to recognize an outstanding cadet first class who embodies “impeccable character, unwavering leadership and spirit of service.”

To watch the 2021 Award and Recognition Ceremony, click here.

To view images of the ceremony, click here.

Award	Cadet	Class	Sq	In Memory of	Donor
Winner	Julia L. Rochester	2021	36	in memory of 1st Lt. Roslyn Schulte	Sponsored by  the Center for Character and Leadership Development and the Schulte family
Runner-Up	Derrick Dye	2021	34
Runner-Up	Thuytien Pham	2021	9
Runner-Up	Michael J. Greisman	2021	16
Runner-Up	Marcus A. Ross	2021	25