GRADUATION 2019
Graduation Week for the Class of 2019, and the 61st Graduating Class begins on Friday, 24 May and concludes with the Graduation Ceremony at Falcon Stadium on Thursday, 30 May.
Graduation Week is comprised of many activities and events across the U.S. Air Force Academy. Cadets and their guests take part in receptions, award ceremonies, baccalaureate services, concerts, parades, air demonstrations, and commissioning ceremonies. The week culminates at Falcon Stadium with the Graduation Ceremony. Speakers rotate between the President of the United States, Vice President, Secretary of Defense and Secretary of the Air Force.
At the close of the ceremony, cadets are dismissed and ceremoniously toss their caps into the air. Cheers and celebration are quickly silenced by the roar of the legendary Thunderbirds flying overhead to honor the graduating class. More information is available by visiting Guest information and Schedule of Events.
GRADUATION UPDATE: Due to security screening requirements for the Graduation speaker and the very large number of guests expected, those attending the Graduation Ceremony on 30 May are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to arrive as early as possible. The base gates will be opening at 0600 to allow traffic to reach the stadium and begin parking. The stadium personnel gates will be opening at 0730 to allow attendees to process through security. High volumes of vehicular traffic and long security wait times are expected, so please plan accordingly in order to be in your seat at the start of the ceremony.
Graduation Highlights
A Welcome Letter from the Superintendent
On behalf of a proud U.S. Air Force Academy community, I am thrilled to extend my congratulations on your cadet’s upcoming graduation! Over the past four years, the members of the Class of 2019 have built the foundation for promising careers of service on a bedrock of education, training, and character development. As this class has progressed through our challenging and interdisciplinary curriculum, they have been tested in the classroom, in the squadron, and on the athletic fields. More…
Bluebards Theatre
The Academy’s Bluebards Theatre Troupe proudly present the timeless classic,
“The Music Man” for three separate performances. No tickets are required.
Program available
May 23, 26, and 27 at 7:00 p.m., Arnold Hall Theater
Graduation Reception
For graduating cadets, their families, and guests. This event is held in Mitchell Hall and offers the opportunity to meet and mingle with senior USAFA staff. Tickets for the event are required.
Flyer available
May 29 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Mitchell Hall
Cadet Graduation Concert
In honor of the graduating class of 2019, the Cadet Chorale Choir, Cadet Orchestra, Schola, and the U.S. Air Force Academy’s premier a capella group “In The Stairwell” will perform a special concert for cadets, family, and guests.
Concert Flyer available
May 28 at 7:30 p.m., Arnold Hall Theater
Cadet Aerial Demonstrations and Graduation Parade
Watch our Wings of Blue parachute team, glider team and powered flight aircraft demonstrate various cadet-led aviation and leadership programs offered to cadets during their four years at the Academy. The parade begins immediately after the conclusion of the demonstrations. During the parade the graduating class will turn over its command of the Cadet Wing to the Class of 2020.
May 29 at 7:30 a.m., Stillman Field
Graduation Ceremony
Four years of hard work and dedication have finally paid off. Join the 61st graduating class of the U.S. Air Force Academy as they receive their diplomas and commission as second lieutenants. Children (ages 7-10 only) will be allowed on the stadium floor to retrieve hats from the graduates’ hat toss at the end of the ceremony.
May 30 at 10:30 a.m., Falcon Stadium
Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration
The USAF Thunderbirds Demonstration takes place over Falcon Stadium immediately following the graduation ceremony. The team is comprised of selected pilots assigned to demonstrate the coordination, discipline and flying ability that combat-capable pilots require to fulfill their vital role in our nation’s defense.
May 30 at the conclusion of the graduation ceremony, Falcon Stadium