Freshman Year
Follower/Teammate, Cadet Airman
During Basic Cadet Training, our basic cadets attend training such as Introduction to Living Honorably in the Profession of Arms. This helps them learn to understand what it means to live honorably at the Academy and the core values of the Air Force and Space Force. The course prepares them to take the Honor Oath by helping them comprehend the elements of the Honor Code and System.
Once accepted into the Cadet Wing, their development focuses on the foundation of the Officer Development System. As followers and teammates, fourth-class cadets are responsible for learning and adapting to the profession of arms while supporting and lifting their teammates under the supervision of upper-class cadets and permanent party personnel.
In-processing
Each June, In-processing Day (I-Day) begins with four-degree (freshman) being dropped off at the Holaday Athletic Center where they begin immediately receiving instruction from upper classmen. They’ll also head up the Core Values Ramp for the first time. Appointees take the Oath of Office and become Basic Cadets. The day also includes haircuts, immunizations, and the issuance of uniforms and dorms. Take a look at how we welcomed the Class of 2028. The Commandant of Cadets conducts a ceremonial class Swearing In ceremony the following day, formally kicking off 6-weeks of Basic Cadet Training (BCT).
Basic Cadet Training
This six-week program guides the transformation of new cadets, also known as Basic Cadets, from being civilians to military academy cadets prepared to enter a four-year officer commissioning program. With a commitment to pushing physical, emotional and mental limits, Basic Cadets will develop into highly disciplined, physically fit fourth-class cadets (freshman), ready to be accepted into the Cadet Wing.
Acceptance Parade
The end of Basic Cadet Training is marked by the Acceptance Parade. During this event, cadets receive their fourth-class shoulder boards to signify their acceptance into the Cadet Wing. In a ceremony associated with the parade, new fourth-class cadets take the Academy Honor Code Oath and pledge to live by its principles. This parade is open to the public and cadet families who attend are able to view the parade and the subsequent pin-on ceremonies. The Legacy Class is invited to view the parade and present Contrails to the outstanding basic from each of the 10 squadrons.
Parents’ Weekend
Every year Parents’ Weekend takes place over the Labor Day weekend. It offers an exciting opportunity for cadets to connect with their families for the first time following Basic Cadet Training. There are many activities designed to orient families and guests to their cadet’s new life in the military. These include a senior leader panel, aerial demonstrations, Cadet Wing parade, information fair, and football kickoff game.
Culminating Exercise
Our four-degree cadets join the rest of the Cadet Wing in a multi-day field training event designed to enhance their warfighter readiness and leadership skills. The training evaluates proficiency in Ready Airman Training skills, reinforcing their preparedness for Agile Combat Employment. During the exercise cadets gain hands-on experience with the tactical and strategic skills required for modern combat environments.
Recognition & Promotion
This weekend-long event recognizes progress of all four classes throughout the academic year. All cadets are evaluated on their leadership performance to determine if they are eligible for an upgrade to their next role and a new level of responsibilities as they advance within the Cadet Wing. Additionally, our four-degree cadets receive their prop and wings to acknowledge their transition to upper-class cadets.