U.S. Air Force Academy Day is commemorated on April 1 every year. The day was established to honor the historic milestones and remarkable achievements of predecessors of the U.S. Air Force Academy. All officers who serve in the Air Force are educated at the Air Force Academy. The event, also known as Founders Day, is celebrated by the cadets and personnel with a variety of special ceremonies and celebrations. Read on and learn more about this amazing arm of the U.S. military.
History of U.S. Air Force Academy Day
After it was determined that an air force academy was required, the U.S. Congress passed legislation in 1954 to commence the building of the Air Force Academy site. President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the academy on the first of April, 1945, even though the permanent site had not yet been finished. On July 11, 1955, the pioneer Class of 1959 was sworn in at a temporary site at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, and the academy’s dedication ceremony was held on that first day and was carried live on national television. Interestingly, renowned Hollywood film director Cecil B. DeMille designed the costume for the cadets.The Cadet Honor Code was approved by the inaugural class, and the ‘Falcon’ was chosen as the Academy’s mascot. On August 29, 1958, the wing of 1,145 cadets relocated to the current location outside Colorado Springs, and the Academy was accredited less than a year later. On June 3, 1959, the first class of the U.S. Air Force graduated and was inducted. The Vietnam War was the first time that academy graduates fought and died in a war. As a result, it had a significant impact on the formation of the academy’s character. Due to the increased demand for pilots, academy enrolment increased dramatically during this period. The size of the graduating classes increased from 217 in 1961 to 745 in 1970.Since President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the academy on April 1, 1954, it has continuously produced leaders of character who embody courage, humility, and a commitment to serve others before themselves.
U.S. Air Force Academy Day timeline
Support is raised for the establishment of a separate air force within the U.S. military.
President Dwight D. Eisenhower signs the proclamation establishing the Academy.
The first set of Air Force Cadets graduate from the academy.
The Air Force Academy admits its first class of women into the academy.
U.S. Air Force Academy Day FAQs
What is a day at the Air Force Academy like?
Days start at 5:15 a.m. and end at 11 p.m. Every day is made up of personal time, military training, classes, sports, study time, training that isn’t directly related to the military, and meals.
What are the cadet ranks?
First-class cadets serve as cadet officers, second-class cadets serve as cadet non-commissioned officers, and third-class cadets serve as cadet junior non-commissioned officers.
How much do Air Force cadets get paid?
The basic pay for cadets is about $1185 per month.
U.S. Air Force Academy Day Activities
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Attend an academy day event
There are usually air force academy day events organized by local air force bases or veteran groups. These events usually include demonstrations by the air force academy's marching band, flyovers by military aircraft, and tours of the facilities.
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Mail a cadet
The cadets at the air force academy will be busy with their studies, but they will likely appreciate letters from people back home. Cadets often keep a journal of their time at the academy, and letters can provide a personal connection to friends and family members.
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Donate to the Air Force
Many organizations support the air force academy financially, including veterans groups, charities, and private foundations. Donating to one of these organizations is a way to show your appreciation for the work that the cadets are doing at the air force academy.
5 Interesting Facts About The U.S. Air Force
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They built a supercomputer with Playstations
The Air Force Research Lab made a supercomputer — the Condor Cluster — out of 1,760 Playstation 3s so it could analyze HD satellite images.
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The air force has a mustache tradition
Every year, ‘Airmen’ participate in a Mustache March, a tradition where airmen grow mustaches throughout March to honor World War II and Vietnam veteran, Brig. Gen. Robin Olds.
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Chuck Norris was in the air force
Hollywood actor Chuck Norris joined the Air Force and was stationed in Korea as an Air Policeman, which is now called Security Forces.
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The air force has an official band
They shoot very cool music videos — you’ll be impressed.
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The air force has produced two presidents
Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush were both airmen in the air force before they became president.
Why We Love U.S. Air Force Academy Day
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It's a fun day
Air Force Academy Day is always a lot of fun. There are games, activities, and prizes to be won. It's a great way to spend a day with friends or family.
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It's educational
Air Force Academy Day is a great way to learn about the air force academy and what it has to offer. You can learn about the available different majors, the admissions process, and more.
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It's a patriotic occasion
Air Force Academy Day is a great way to show your patriotism and support for our troops. The air force academy is an important part of our country and its history, and it's important to show our appreciation for everything they do.
U.S. Air Force Academy Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2024 | April 1 | Monday |
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
