Cadets close out Recognition challenges at AF Academy

Basic cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy run toward Cathedral Rock to bring Recognition to a close, March 12, 2022. The traditional “Run to the Rock” is one of the final activities for basic cadets during Recognition, three days of rigorous teambuilding and leadership challenges. 

Story by Ray Bowden, photos by Joshua Armstrong
U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Freshmen at the Air Force Academy brought Recognition to a close March 12 with “Run to the Rock,” a trek to Cathedral Rock.

The march ends Recognition, three days of training for freshmen to demonstrate the teambuilding and leadership skills they’ve developed as basic cadets, and when they’re given the Prop and Wings insignia to wear on their caps.

Recognition began March 10 with classes and exercises on the athletic fields, Arnold Hall and Holaday Athletic Center

The freshmen, or cadets’ fourth class, will be fully recognized as cadets in May, when the Class of 2022 graduates.

“Recognition is a major milestone for every academy graduate as it showcases the fourth-class cadets’ increasing abilities to overcome exhausting mental and physical challenges through teamwork and fortitude,” said Brig. Gen. Paul Moga, the Academy’s commandant of cadets. “As the culminating event of a challenging fourth-class year, Recognition highlights the grit and determination these future warfighters are developing at the Academy that will carry them through their Air Force and Space Force careers.”

Recognition is organized and led by upper class.

More Recognition photos from Joshua Armstrong