Academy to host graduation parade May 23

U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs/May 19, 2017

The U.S. Air Force Academy’s Class of 2017 Graduation Parade is May 23 at Stillman Parade Field.

Parade events begin at 7:25 a.m. when Wings of Blue are scheduled to jump into Stillman Field. Then the full Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, from Washington D.C., will showcase a complete drill performance.

Cadet aerial capabilities demonstration, along with Cadet Falconry Team and the Saber Drill Team, are scheduled to perform. This will be the last parade for the Class of 2017 as they turn over command of the Cadet Wing to the Class of 2018.

The events are free and open to the public. Tickets are not required but seating is first come, first served.

Visitors should enter the Academy through the North Gate, at Exit 156 off I-25. Visitors are advised to arrive early, as parade attendance and vehicle traffic are typically very high. Vehicles entering the Academy are subject to random searches, which could delay traffic.

Parade parking will be directed to the Cadet Field House, where shuttle bus services will transport attendees to the parade field.  Attendees are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring bottles of water, since bus wait times may sometimes be longer than expected. Although handicapped shuttles will be available throughout the Cadet Area, there may be extensive walking required from bus stops to the parade field bleachers. Please make sure to consider this when bringing elderly or infirm guests to the Academy.

The public should not bring large bags and backpacks to the parade. Cameras, video cameras and binoculars are permitted, but attendees should be prepared to remove the camera lenses for security inspection.

The graduation parade is subject to cancellation in the event of severe weather.

Learn more about graduation and Academy traditions.