1,181 complete basic training, join Cadet Wing

By Maureen Welch/Aug. 10, 2017

It’s official: nearly 1,200 young men and women completed Basic Cadet Training at the U.S. Air Force Academy and start the academic year Aug. 10.

The Class of 2021 officially became “cadets” Aug. 9 during the Academy’s annual Acceptance Day ceremony which represents a symbolic shift from the status of basic trainee to cadet fourth class.

Cadet 4th Class Luke Kilianski said he’s eager to begin the school year.

“Today was very uplifting to get recognized by the wing,” he said. “‘Basic’ is finally over and it’s a huge relief to go into the academic year.”

Luke’s mother, Gabriela Kilianski, shared her son’s excitement.

“This is the first time I’ve seen my son enthusiastic about academics,” she said. “He’s ready to go.”

During the ceremony, the new four degrees took the Honor Oath, pledging, “We will not lie, steal, or cheat nor tolerate among us anyone who does.”

“This is essentially a verbal contract stating they will live by and uphold the standards of the Cadet Wing,” said Cadet 1st Class Denisha Bennett.

Cadet 1st Class Casey Bell, BCT group commander, said the class’s motto, “No Doubt, No Fear,” supports that oath.

“The class has proven they have no fear in embracing the coming challenges the academic year has to offer,” she said.

Learn about Academy admissions.