United States Air Force Academy

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United States Air Force Academy
MottoIntegrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence in All We Do
TypeMilitary academy
Established1954
Parent institution
United States Department of the Air Force
Location, ,
CampusSuburban
ColorsAir Force blue, Silver
NicknameFalcons
MascotThe Bird


The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is a military academy for officer candidates for the United States Air Force and United States Space Force. It is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Academy's stated mission is "to educate, train, and inspire men and women to become officers of character, motivated to lead the United States Air Force in service to our nation."

History[edit | edit source]

The United States Air Force Academy was established in 1954 by an act of Congress. The first class of 306 cadets was sworn in at a temporary site at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado in July 1955. The Academy moved to its permanent location in Colorado Springs in 1958.

Campus[edit | edit source]

The Academy's campus is a census-designated place (CDP) and includes a variety of facilities, including academic buildings, dormitories, and athletic fields. The most recognizable building is the Cadet Chapel, which is an iconic symbol of the Academy.

Academics[edit | edit source]

The Academy offers a four-year program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. Cadets can choose from a variety of majors, including engineering, humanities, social sciences, and basic sciences. The academic program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Military Training[edit | edit source]

Military training is an integral part of the Academy experience. Cadets undergo rigorous training programs designed to develop leadership skills and physical fitness. This includes Basic Cadet Training, Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) training, and various leadership development courses.

Athletics[edit | edit source]

The Academy's athletic teams are known as the Air Force Falcons. They compete in NCAA Division I as a member of the Mountain West Conference in most sports. The Academy has a strong tradition in football, basketball, and ice hockey.

Notable Alumni[edit | edit source]

The Academy has produced many notable alumni, including astronauts, generals, and politicians. Some of the most distinguished graduates include General David L. Goldfein, the 21st Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and Colonel Eileen Collins, the first female Space Shuttle commander.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD