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
2021	Colonel (Retired) Robert Munson
2020	Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Garry W. Dudley ’68
2019	General (Retired) John Lorber ’64
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
2017	Mr. Carl A. Janssen, Jr. ’68
2016	No award Presented
2015	The Air Force Academy Foundation
2014	Mr. John M. Fox ’63
2013	Dr. Jimmy Covey ’68
2012	Mr. Edward E. “Ted” Legasey ’67
2011	Colonel (Retired) Jock C. H. Schwank ’60
2010	Lieutenant General (Retired) Benjamin N. Bellis ’85
2009	Mr. A. Bart Holaday ’65
2008	General (Retired) James P. McCarthy
2007	Brigadier General (Retired) Malham M. Wakin
2006	Academy Top 3
2005	Major General (Retired) William Lyon
2004	No Award Presented
2003	Colonel (Retired) Joseph and Doctor Dorothy Moller
2002	The Olmsted Foundation
2001	Brigadier General (Retired) Philip J. Erdle
2000	Mr. Harold U. Littrell
1999	Colorado Springs Citizens Committee Lieutenant General (Retired) A. P. Clark

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
2021	Maj Cameron Dilts, ’10	CV-22B Pilot, Iraq
2020	Capt Alexander E. Boules, ’15	A-10, Afghanistan
2019	Col Tyler N. Hague ’98 Maj Caitlin T. Reilly ‘ 07	Astronaut Operations: Inherent Resolve, Freedom’s Sentinel, & Resolute Support
2018	Maj Marc P. Catalano ’06	Iraq, Operation Inherent Resolve & Resolute Support, AC-130U Pilot
2017	Capt Brian R. Guyette, ‘08	Syria, B-1 Instructor Pilot
2016	Maj Matthew J. Kuta, ‘05	Afghanistan, F-15E Pilot
2015	Capt Kyle L. Babbitt, ’08	ACC, A-10 C pilot, OEF
2014	Capt Charles C. Napier, ’06	HH-60G Rescue in Afghanistan
2013	Capt Christopher D. McConnell, ’05	Op Odyssey Dawn (Libya), B-1
2012	Capt Joseph A. Hext, ’02	USAFE, Op Enduring Freedom, A-10 Pilot
2011	Capt Michal P. Polidor, ’04	Global Strike Command, F-15E Pilot
2010	Capt Prichard R. Keely, 04	ACC, F-15E Weapon Systems Officer
2009	Capt Travis A. Burton, ’00 Mr. Chesley B. Sullenberger, ’73	USAFE, A-10 Pilot OEF US Airways Pilot, Hudson River Landing
2008	Capt Jonathan W. Graham, ’99	AETC, Operation Iraqi Freedom MH-53
2006	Maj John E. Vargas Jr., ‘96	USAFE, F-16, OIF, OEF
2005	Lt Col Keith D. Schultz, ‘79	B-52 flight, weapon system development
2004	Maj Jason L. Hanover, ‘92	AFSOC; MC-130H; OEF and OIF
2003	Capt Leighton T. Anderson, Jr., ‘92 Capt Edward J. Lengel, ‘92	Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) Operation Anaconda
2002	Maj Henry C. Thompson, ‘87	Operation Allied Force/Northern Watch
2001	Maj Julian M. Chesnutt, ‘89	Operation Allied Force, Fighter Ops
2000	Maj James L. Cardoso, ‘88	Operation Allied Force, Rescue
1998	Capt Daniel E. Flynn, ‘91	Special Operations Excellence
1997	LtCol David J. Scott, ‘78	F-16 Tactics Development / Leadership
1996	LtCol Robert P. Donnelly, Jr, ‘77	Flatyeri, Iceland Rescue
1995	Capt Harold E. Waters, ‘85	RC-135 In-flight Emergency
1994	LtCol James A. Sills, ‘74	Iceland Rescue
1993	Maj Ali C. Frolich, ‘80	Desert Shield / Desert Storm
1992	Maj Corby L. Martin, ‘80	Desert Shield / Desert Storm
1991	Capt William F. Andrews, ‘80	Desert Storm / F-16  Heroic Act
1990	Capt Francis R. Gabreski, ‘8	Tactics Validation / Panama
1989	LtCol Robert H. Schnick, ‘72	F-16 Test Pilot for LANTIRN
1988	Maj Marc D. Felman, ‘76 Capt Thomas M. Ferguson, ‘81	KC-10 Mission over Atlantic KC-10 Mission over Atlantic
1987	Capt James A. Trinka, ‘78	Save F-16 w/ Engine Failure
1986	Maj Larry E. Faber, ‘73	Save TR-1 w/ Engine Failure
1985	Col James N. Allburn, ‘63	X-29 Program
1984	Capt Michael P. Davis, ‘78	Grenada Rescue
1983	Col Karol J. Bobko, ‘59 Maj Neal D. Coyle, ‘72	Maiden Voyage of Challenger B-52 In-flight Emergency
1982	LtCol Robert L. Brenci, ‘63	Iran Hostage Rescue Attempt
1981	Capt William T. Gillin, ‘73	Dutch Liner Rescue
1980	Col Thomas A. LaPlante, ‘61	Excellence in System Management
1979	Maj Mart H. Bushnell, ‘64	F-15 & AIM-7F Sparrow Missile Improvements
1978	LtCol (Dr) Wayne F. Kendall, ‘60	F-15/F-16 Canopy Loss
1977	Maj Roger E. Carleton, ‘67	A-10 T & E
1976	**LtCol Michael V. Love, ‘60	Test Pilot
1975	**Capt Donald R. Backlund, ‘71 Capt Ronald T. Rand, ‘71	Mayaguez Rescue (Pilot) Mayaguez Rescue (Photographer)
1974	*Maj Robert A. Lodge, ‘64	Southeast Asia
1973	Capt Dale E. Stovall, ‘67	SEA/Helicopter Rescue
1972	Maj Richard S. Ritchie, ‘64	Southeast Asia
1971	Capt Neil B. Crist, ‘66	Southeast Asia
1970	Capt (Ret) Wayne A. Warner, ’63	Southeast Asia
1969	Maj Terry R. Jorris, ‘61	Space Sextant (Aerospace Research)
*	Lt Karl W. Richter, ‘64	Southeast Asia
1968	Capt Donald D. Stevens, ‘60	Southeast Asia

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
2022	Brig Gen (Ret) Hans Mueh ’66 Maj Gen (Ret) Susan Desjardins ’80 Gen (Ret) David Goldfein ’83
2021	Col. (Ret.) Leonard “Lucky” Ekman ’63 Dr. William Wecker ’63 Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Eugene Lupia ’67
2020	Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Jay Kelley ’64 Mr. Hugh Williamson ’64 Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Ronald “Ron” Sega ’74 Col. (Ret.) Gail Benjamin Colvin ’80
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
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
2017	John Fox ’63 T. Allan McArtor ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Steve Lorenz ’73
2016	(Ret.) George Lee Butler ’61 Gen. (Ret.) Charles R. Holland ’68 Mr. R. David Yost ’69 Col. (Ret.) Gary E. Payton ’71
2015	(Ret.) Gregory “Speedy” Martin ’70 Paul Madera ’78
2014	Thomas J. Eller ’61 Gen. (Ret.) Kevin P. Chilton ’76
2013	A. Bart Holaday ’65 Gen. (Ret) William R. “Bill” Looney III ’72
2012	Gen. (Ret.) Marcus A. Anderson ’61 Mr. Edward E. “Ted” Legasey ’67
2011	Gen. (Ret.) Ruben A. Cubero ’61 Mr. Richard D. McConn ’66
2010	Max F. James ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Ralph E.Eberhart ’68
2009	(Ret.) John Michael Loh ’60 Honorable Heather A. Wilson ’82
2008	Gen. (Ret.) Donald Shepperd ’62 Mr. John Martinson ’70
2007	Gen. (Ret.) Ervin Rokke ’62 Gregg Popovich ’70
2006	Gen. (Ret.) Robert D. Beckel ’59 Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Edward J. Mechenbier ’64
2005	(Ret.) H.T. Johnson ’59 Gen. (Ret.) Michael E. Ryan ’65
2004	(Ret.) Frederick Gregory ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Ronald W. Yates ’60
2003	Gen. (Ret.) Bradley C. Hosmer ’59 Mr. Richard T. Schlosberg ’65
2002	Paul G. Kaminski ’64 Gen. (Ret.) Robert C. Oaks ’59
2001	(Ret.) Ronald Fogleman ’63 Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64

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
2023	Mr. Michael Kazlausky
2022	Capt Victoria Morrison
2021	Dr. Gregory “Greg” Tate, Cadet Wing
2020	Ms. Gina “Nikki” Mench ’02
2019	Maj Keturah Onukwuli
2018	Lt Col Camilo Guerrero ’96
2017	Col (Ret) Tom Berry ’71
2016	Col Jennifer Block ’92
2015	Dr. Robert “Jef” Jackson
2014	Maj Christina D. Vile
2013	Capt Seth G. Ostlund
2012	Lt Col Ryan K. Osteroos ’94
2011	Col (Ret) Steven A. Shambach
2010	Lt Col Brian Huntley ’88
2009	Maj James Thompson
2008	Lt Col Vicki Rast ’88
2007	Coach Fisher DeBerry
2006	Mr. Phillip Gronseth ’75
2005	Professor Howard Eggers
2004	USAFA Response Team
2003	Lt Col Mark McGeehan ’78 C1C Patrick McGeehan ’03 C1C Brian Smolensky ’03
2002	Dr. Martin Carlisle, DFCS
2001	C1C Catherine Adams
2000	USAFA Prep School
1999	Brig Gen Ruben A. Cubero ’61
1998	Lt Gen Bradley C. Hosmer ’59

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	Shelby A. Wood	2024	14	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	Maya G. Mandyam	2024	11	in memory of Lieutenant General Claire L. Chennault
Outstanding Cadet in Engineering	Regan B. Hansen	2024			Mr Allan Hunt (Class of 1969)
Outstanding Cadet in Humanities	Alexander J. Simmons	2024	2	in memory of Lieutenant General Barton K. Yount	Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Cadet in Social Sciences	Isobel C. Dernlan	2024	24	in memory of General Joseph R. Holzapple
Outstanding Cadet in Academic Performance	Taylor H. Edwards	2024	1	in memory of Brigadier General Robert F. McDermott, USAF, Retired	The American Legion
Outstanding Cadet in Aeronautical Engineering	Taylor H. Edwards	2024	1	in memory of Captain Zoltan J. Tober, Jr. (Class of 1965)
Outstanding Cadet in Astronautical Engineering	Alejandro Posadas Nava	2024	14	in memory of Dr. John von Neumann	Brig Gen (Ret) Robert B. Giffen (Class of 1965)
Outstanding Cadet in Behavioral Sciences and Leadership	Gabrielle R. Wilson	2024	23	in memory of Captain Richard D. Chorlins (Class of 1967)	National Ladies’ Auxiliary Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.
Outstanding Cadet in Biology	Lindsey A. Winograd	2024	6	in memory of members of the 384th Bomb Group who served from 1942 to 1945	384th Bomb Group, Inc.
Outstanding Cadet in Chemistry	Madelyn L. Letendre	2024	9	in memory of Captain Edward E. Barrow	National Society Daughters of the American Colonists
Outstanding Cadet in Civil Engineering	Evan T. Haskins	2024	25	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				in honor of General Richard L. Lawson, USAF, Retired	Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Cadet in Cyber Science	Massimo A. Brigola	2024	38		The Honorable Michael W. Wynne, former Secretary of the Air Force
Outstanding Cadet in Computer Science	Samuel J. Brennan	2024	20	in memory of Captain Dean W. Gonzalez (Class of 1980)	USAFA DFCS Faculty Alumni
Outstanding Cadet in Eastern Language Minor	Isobel C. Dernlan	2024	24	in memory of General James H. Doolittle	National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century
Outstanding Cadet in Economics	Grace A. Sublette	2024	29	in memory of Major Arthur L. Moxon (Class of 1968)
Outstanding Cadet in English	Mackenzie H. Lucas	2024	37	in honor of Brigadier General Peter R. Moody, USAF, Retired	Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Outstanding Cadet in Foreign Area Studies	Karen A. Kosinski	2024	25	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	Shane H. Choi	2024	22	in memory Of Brigadier General Robert F. McDermott, USAF, Retired	United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Outstanding Cadet in History	Doyle C. Gehring	2024	11	in memory of Lieutenant General Frank M. Andrews	Zebulon Pike Chapter, National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution
Outstanding Cadet in Humanities (Major)
Outstanding Cadet in Intercollegiate Speech Competition	Lauren A. Blackwelder	2024	17	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	Rebecca A. Wusinich	2024	34	in memory of Brigadier General Marcos E. Kinevan, USAF, Retired
Outstanding Cadet in Management	Luke J. Anderson	2024	13	in memory of Colonel Frank T. Birk (Class of 1968)
Outstanding Cadet in Mathematics	Owen M. Graham	2024	4	in memory of Dr. Robert H. Goddard	Brig Gen (USAF, Ret) John & Sandi Andrew
Outstanding Cadet in Meteorology	Zachary J. Holder	2024	18
Outstanding Cadet in Military History	Dean P. Fecteau	2024	14	in memory of Major Richard Ira Bong	the family of the late Colonel Robert S. Lawson
Outstanding Cadet in Military and Strategic Studies	Patrick S. Jackson	2024	37	in memory of Major General Lucas V. Beau and Brigadier General William (Billy) Mitchell	Civil Air Patrol
Outstanding Cadet in National Security Studies	Mary O. Henderson	2024	11	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 Electrical & Computer Engineering	Payton R. Rawson	2024	35		Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Outstanding Cadet in Mechanical Engineering	Brigid T. Barkmeier	2024	25		National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Outstanding Cadet in Systems Engineering	James M. Leland IV	2024	33		Air & Space Forces Association, Colorado
Outstanding Cadet in Philosophy	Claudia C. DiStaso	2024	5	in memory of Major Fred A. Brockway	Colonel James Cook and Mrs. Dörte Cook
Outstanding Cadet in Physics	Blake C. Eastman	2024	11	in memory of Major General George O. Squier	The Order of the Founders and Patriots of America
Outstanding Cadet in Political Science	Isobel C. Dernlan	2024	24	in memory of Captain Richard T. Carvolth III	National Society of Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America
Outstanding Cadet in Space Operations	Sydney K. Heyborne	2024	24	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	Luke M. Robinson	2024	14		Military and Security Applications Society of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences
Outstanding Cadet in Western Language Minor	Griffin T. Peter	2024	13	in memory of Major G. Raoul Lufbery	Military Order of the World Wars, National Headquarters
Outstanding Cadet Commissioning into the U.S. Space Force	Daniel G. Avila	2024	34		Space Force Association
Outstanding Cadet in Guardianship Programs	Garrett J. Siemen	2024	30	in honor of General David D. Thompson (Class of 1985)	Gen (Ret) Thompson

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 4				Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 36				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 33			in memory of Colonel John H. Fowler, Jr.	Air Force Space Command
Core Values Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 20				Airlift Tanker Association
Academic Achievement Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 27				Air Education and Training Command
Leadership and Scholarship Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 35
USAFA Safety Outstanding Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 25
Outstanding Cadet Summer Wing Commander Award	Hailey D. Kim	2024	29		Aviators’ Post No. 743, American Legion
Outstanding Cadet Fall Wing Commander Award	Isaac M. Bates	2024	40	in memory of Captain Herbert A. Adamson (Class of 1959)	Aviators’ Post No. 743, American Legion
Outstanding Cadet Spring Wing Commander Award	Abigail E. Worley	2024	24	in memory of General of the Air Force Henry H. (Hap) Arnold	Aviators’ Post No. 743, American Legion
Outstanding Cadet Group Commander Award	Brett M. Castro	2024	31	in memory of Major General Oscar Westover	The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Auxiliary
Outstanding Cadet Squadron Commander Award	Michael E. Santiago	2024	35	in memory of General Hoyt S. Vandenberg
Outstanding Cadet Flight Commander Award	Alexandria D. Griffith	2024	16		Military Affairs Council of the Colorado Springs Chamber and Economic Development Corporation
Outstanding Cadet Element Leader Award	Samuel B. Widman	2024	38	in memory of First Lieutenant Joseph D. Helton, Class of 2007
Outstanding Cadet Who Best Exemplifies the Highest Ideals of Loyalty, Integrity and Courage Award	Keeley Shaughnessy	2024	18
Honor Chairperson Award	Joshua K. Wodrich	2024	28	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	Madelyn L. Letendre	2024	9	in honor of Coach Fisher DeBerry	Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Outstanding Cadet in Citizenship Award	Grace A. Sublette	2024	29		Rotary Club of the Garden of the Gods
Outstanding Cadet in Military Performance Award	Jonathan J. Loh	2024	8	in memory of General Walter C. Sweeney, Jr. (Class of 1959)	Reverend Walter C. Sweeney, III
Outstanding Cadet in the Order of Graduation Award	Jonathan J. Loh	2024	8	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	Jonathan J. Loh	2024	8
Argetine Air Force Medal	Jonathan J. Loh	2024	8
Chilean Air Force Award	Jonathan J. Loh	2024	8

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	Kelly A. Murphy	2024	40		The Bassett Family
Outstanding Cadet in Parachuting Award	Corwyn E. Wipf	2024	16	in memory of Peter A. Johnston (Class of 1966)	The Class of 1966
Outstanding Cadet in Powered Flight Award	Levi J. Brodman	2024	29		Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Virginia
Outstanding Cadet in Soaring Award	Ayushi Bansal	2024	13	in memory of former Air Force Chief of Staff, General John P. McConnell
Outstanding Flying Team Cadet	Jacob M. James	2024	21

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	Wendell M. Roberson	2024	28		USAFA Preparatory School Commanders
Outstanding Former Regular Enlisted Cadet Graduating with Highest Class Honors Award	Wendell M. Roberson	2024	28	in memory of Master Sergeant James D. Horner	National Society Dames of the Court of Honor
Outstanding Former Falcon Scholar Award	Isaac M. Abramovitz	2024	14	in memory of Major General Robert J. Smith	The Falcon Foundation
100 Year Honor Roll (Top Graduate)	Jonathan J. Loh	2024	8	in memory of Lieutenant Generals Millard F. Harmon and Hubert R. Harmon	The Order of Daedalians
Civil Air Patrol Award	Regan B. Hansen	2024	9		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 37
Intramural Athletics Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 36				United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Athletic Excellence Squadron Award	Cadet Squadron 28				Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Most Valuable Athlete Award (Men)	Trey J. Taylor	2023	16	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)	Peninah D’Souza	2024	5	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	Patrick W. Hoopes	2025	2	in memory of Major Jack Schwall, USAF, Retired	Lieutenant Colonel Franklin D. Roth, USAF, Retired and Mrs. Rolene Roth; Lt Col Benjamin D. Roth
Outstanding Cadet, Athletic Excellence Award	Wyatt A. Hendrickson	2024	3	in memory of First Lieutenant Dale A. Walters (Class of 1982)
Outstanding Cadet, Athletic Leadership Award	Samuel G. Kulasingham	2024	27	in memory of First Lieutenant Michael J. Mark (Class of 1975)	family and friends of First Lieutenant Michael J. Mark (Class of 1975)
Outstanding Cadet, Scholar-Athlete Award	Grace A. Sublette	2024	29	in memory of General Edwin W. Rawlings
Most Valuable Baseball Player Award	Seungmin Shim	2024	1	in memory of Captain Valmore W. Bourque (Class of 1960)	Ms. Donda Foran Thomasson
Most Valuable Basketball Player Award (Men)	Ethan E. Taylor	2025	3		Lt Col (Ret) Steven A. Simon and Lt Col (Ret) Paula S. Simon
Most Valuable Basketball Player Award (Women)	Milahnie C. Perry	2026	27		Women Air Force Service Pilots of World War II
Most Valuable Cadet in Boxing Excellence Award (Men)	Victor N. Benitez	2024	40		Rampart Chapter, Association of Graduates
Most Valuable Cadet in Boxing Excellence Award (Women)	Mackenzie H. Lucas	2024	37		Rampart Chapter, Association of Graduates
Most Valuable Cadet in Marksmanship Award (Rifle)	Morgan M. Kreb	2024	15	in honor of the United States Air Force Academy Purple Heart Recipients
Most Valuable Cheerleader Award (Men)	Ryan M. Trevino	2024	37
Most Valuable Cheerleader Award (Women)	Ella K. Furlong	2024	37
Most Valuable Cross Country Runner Award (Men)	Sean R. Maison	2024	12		United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Most Valuable Cross Country Runner Award (Women)	Halle L. Hamilton	2024	17		American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters
Most Valuable Diver Award (Men)	Alexander C. Kenyon	2025	33
Most Valuable Diver Award (Women)	Kinzie E. Etzelmiller	2024	15
Most Valuable Fencer Award (Men)	Jack Griffith	2026	5	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)	Jocelyn T. Ratzlaff	2024	6	in memory of Mr. Edwin L. Purdy
Most Valuable Football Defensive Player Award	Bohden M. Richter	2023	38
Most Valuable Football Lineman or Special Teams Player Award	Phillip J. Ramsey	2024	27		Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy
Most Valuable Football Offensive Player Award	Thorsen L. Paglialong	2024	8	in memory of Captain Martin S. Bezyack	Colonel (Ret) David C. Geuting and Master Sergeant Janice R. Geuting
Most Valuable Football Player Award	Trey J. Taylor	2024	16		AFA Quarterback Club of Denver
Most Valuable Golfer Award (Men)	Alvaro M. Fonseca	2026	16		Brig Gen (USAF, Ret) John & Sandi Andrew
Most Valuable Gymnast Award (Men)	Oliver Zavel	2024	28	in memory of Mr. Jasper D. Ackerman
Most Valuable Gymnast Award (Women)	Maggie M. Slife	2027	30	in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Karolen K. Fahrni (Class of 1985)	Ms. Kimberly Davis
Most Valuable Ice Hockey Player Award	William P. Gavin	2024	20	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	Christopher S. Bardak	2024	33	in memory of First Lieutenant Michael L. Sands (Class of 1971)
Most Valuable Soccer Player (Women)	Grace A. Sublette	2024	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)	Federico C. Mion	2024	32		United States Air Force Academy Colorado Parents’ Club
Most Valuable Swimmer Award (Men)	Thomas J. Nagle III	2025	20	in memory of Captain Bryan A. Rye (Class of 1971)	Lt Col (Ret) William M. Griffith (Class of 1969)
Most Valuable Swimmer Award (Women)	Alexandra D. Clark	2025	31	In honor of Coach Casey Converse	USAFA Women’s Swimming Alumni
Most Valuable Tennis Player Award (Men)	Arjun A. Kersten	2025	20	in memory of Lieutenant General Francis C. Gideon, USAF
The Carole Gilchrist Bassett Award for the Most Valuable Tennis Player Award (Women)	Arianna Van Houweling	2026	39		The Bassett Family
Most Valuable Track and Field Athlete Award (Men)	Texas T. Tanner	2026	10	in memory of Brigadier General James V. G. Wilson	The Wilson Family and Friends
Most Valuable Track and Field Athlete Award (Women)	Taylor E. Rioux	2025	34	in memory of Lieutenant General Claire L. Chennault
Most Valuable Track and Field Competitor Award (Men)	Jalan T. Rivers	2025	34	in memory of Mr. Arne U. Arnesen
Most Valuable Track and Field Competitor Award (Women)	Ava E. Gilliana	2024	9	in memory of Lieutenant General Claire L. Chennault
Most Valuable Volleyball Player Award	Caroline K. Reinkensmeyer	2024	26		United Services Automobile Association, Mountain States Region
Most Valuable Water Polo Player Award	Thomas A. Leggett	2026	6		Lieutenant Colonel Jeffery Heidmous (Class of 1977), USAF, Retired, and Mrs. Heidmous
Most Valuable Wrestler Award	Wyatt A. Hendrickson	2024	3	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	Garrett D. Kuchan	2024	27	in memory of Lt Col Paul Edward Bickle (Class of 1970)
Outstanding Cadet in Physical Education	Garrett D. Kuchan	2024	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	Karis Kim	2024	3	in memory of 1st Lt. Roslyn Schulte	Sponsored by  the Center for Character and Leadership Development and the Schulte family
Runner-Up	Kiana Baruela	2024	23
Runner-Up	Marissa Howard	2024	6
Runner-Up	Hilary Nolen	2024	23
Runner-Up	Kelly Yoon	2024	23