United States Air Force Academy

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United States Air Force Academy

Motto	Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence in All We Do
Type	Military academy
Established	1954
Parent institution	United States Department of the Air Force
Location	Colorado Springs, Colorado , Colorado , United States
Campus	Suburban
Colors	Air Force blue, Silver
Nickname	Falcons
Mascot	The 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• United States Military Academy
• United States Naval Academy
• United States Coast Guard Academy
• United States Merchant Marine Academy
• Air Force Falcons

See Also

• United States Air Force
• United States Space Force
• Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Military academies in the United States