Parent 2014/15

HANDBOOK

PREMIER SPONSOR Parent 2014/15

Recognition/Class

2018 patch Patches and Class Pins will debut at Parents Weekend Designed by cadets, for cadets and their families. Each patch and pin proudly displays the Prop & Wings and Class color.

Proudly support your cadet. Wear these at USAFA activities: Parents Weekend, Graduation, Swearing In, Acceptance Day, sporting events, and at home.

Only $5 each + Shipping

To order, visit www.afapan.org

Questions? Email: [email protected]. Please include class year in subject line.

Thank you for supporting the AF Academy Parents Association of Nebraska.

Actual size 3 1/2” Actual size 1” Not authorized to wear Pins available for all 4 on official uniform. classes. See website for 1 details. Dear Parents,

We welcome those of you with upper-class cadets back to your very special community—one dedicated to Integrity First; Service Before Self; and Excellence in All We Do. Since 1959, 56 classes have pro- duced over 47,000 graduates who have become leaders of character throughout society. We have 633 general officers, 36 have earned four stars and four have become Air Force Chief of Staff—one following in his father’s footsteps. The Long Blue Line includes 40 astronauts, 37 POWs and a former member of the United States Congress. Academy graduates are leaders in their communities across the nation. From business leaders, doctors, and lawyers to teachers, clergy, authors and airline professionals, our men and women are making a positive difference. Your cadet is already a part of this great tradition. The Association of Graduates is here to support them and to encourage you to share

2 your cadet’s experience through the products and services we provide. This handbook is just one of the ways the AOG demonstrates our commitment to all parents in the Academy family. For those of you who are members of the AOG, you know that you get much more. We hope you enjoy the commentary and photos from WebGuy. As a member, you have access to even more information. Members receive Checkpoints, our quarterly, award-winning magazine dedicated to telling the stories of graduates, cadets and the Academy. ZoomiEnews and 7258’, our electronic newsletters, give you weekly updates on Academy news, events and activities. Member- ship includes expanded services on our website. AOG members also receive a 15 percent discount on merchandise in both our gift shop and online store. If you aren’t a member, don’t wait a minute longer. Join the AOG today and maximize the thrill of having a cadet at the United States Air Force Academy. To the parents of the Class of 2018, your cadet is facing the first major challenge of the Academy journey—Basic Cadet Training. Encourage them to stay the course. Nothing good ever comes easy and the pride that comes from doing a difficult thing will soon be theirs. They have the ability or they would not have been selected and your support and encouragement can make all the difference. The Long Blue Line is looking forward to welcoming the Class of 2018 to its ranks. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need additional information. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon at one of the many upcoming activities we sponsor.

Wishing you and your cadets all the best,

William “T” Thompson, ’73 President and CEO Association of Graduates

3 Academy Overview

Mission 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.

Basic Academy Information The Air Force Academy is both a military installation and a university, essentially operating similarly to other Air Force Bases. Academic and athletic operations are overseen by a Superintendent (akin to a university president), Dean, and Director of Athletics. The Commandant (no civilian equiv- alent) oversees the military aspects of your cadet’s training. Under this organization, rank structure is as follows:

Superintendent – Lieutenant General (3-star) Dean – Brigadier General (1-star) Commandant – Brigadier General (1-star) Athletic Director – Civilian

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The Long Blue Line Over 47,000 Graduates 633 Generals, including 36 Four-Star Generals 1 (former) Member of Congress 40 Astronauts Over 1,500 Company Presidents, Vice Presidents, Owners and Chief Executive Officers More than 482 Medical Professionals 579 Legal Professionals 1 Medal of Honor 19 Air Force Crosses 278 Silver Stars 3,727 Distinguished Flying Crosses 37 POWs 181 Graduates Named on Academy War Memorial AIR FORCE ACADEMY fund USAFA Parents Your collective generosity makes an impact.

Parents play a vital role by supporting crucial Academy programs, which provide transformative support to the Air Force Academy and its mission of “developing leaders of character for the nation.”

Thanks to the generous support from parents like you, essential Academy programs and services are provided to cadets and graduates through your gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund.

Each fall, parents receive a call from the USAFA Endowment’s calling program representative. The Endowment strategically partners with the company RuffaloCODY, which provides calling center services on behalf of the Air Force Academy Fund.

When you receive a phone call from a trained RuffaloCODY caller, we hope you will be inspired to make your first gift or renew your support. Please welcome these calls as an opportunity to help the Endowment provide support to vital cadet and graduate programs and services. Like your cadet, we can’t do it without you. The Air Force Academy Fund

Air Force Academy Fund gifts enable the USAFA Endowment to provide unrestricted support to the Academy in the following areas:

Support for projects n The Center for Character and Leadership Development

Support for cadet programs n Academy Assembly n Cadet Clubs and Intramurals n Character Development Programs and Seminars n International Immersion n Summer Internships n Undergraduate Research

Gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund also supplement membership dues and enable the Association of Graduates to offer programs and services designed specifically for the needs of the Academy’s cadets, graduates, and parents like:

n Career Services n Appointee Bed and Breakfast n Chapter Programs n Inprocessing Support n Checkpoints Magazine n Parent Handbook n Class Legacy Program n WebGuy online service n Class Ring Maintenance

3116 Academy Drive, Ste 200, USAF Academy, CO 80840 719.472.0300, ext. 200 www.usafaendowment.org Association of Graduates Overview Vision The Association of Graduates (AOG) aspires to be the primary organization of United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) graduates and friends dedicated to supporting the Academy mission of building leaders of character for the Air Force and the nation, and works to provide world-class services and support for graduates and cadets.

Mission To pursue our vision and to serve and support the United States of Amer- ica, the United States Air Force, the United States Air Force Academy, and the graduate community by: I. Working in partnership with the Academy to produce and foster graduates with an enduring commitment to integrity, excellence, and service to country. II. Providing leadership, communication, and support to all the Acad- emy’s graduates, and promoting camaraderie among them. III. Promoting the Academy’s heritage, our common traditions, and the accomplishments of our graduates.

Basic AOG Information The AOG will be one of the primary resources you will use to navigate the Academy alongside your cadet during their time here. We are dedicated to providing parents with a link to their sons and daughters, so they can experience Academy life as much as possible. With the following unique programs, we give you a window into day-to-day life “on the hill” and a way to stay connected to your cadet: • Parent Member Plus and Class Club Membership Programs • WebGuy • Online Parent Portal • Parents Club President’s Forum • 7258’ and ZoomiEnews e-newsletters • WebGuy Social (Thursday evening prior to Parents’ Weekend)* • Ongoing communication through email and social media

It is our duty to advance the Academy’s mission and preserve its heritage for future generations who will one day join the Long Blue Line.

*Date subject to change 8 co ntent s

Get Involved Parents Clubs and Graduate Chapters...... 10 National Events...... 14 FAQs...... 15 Cadet Help...... 16

Stay Connected Parent Programs...... 18 Academy Phone Guide...... 20 Squadron Phone Guide...... 22

Visit Your Cadet Colorado Springs Area Highlights...... 25 Visitors Guide...... 26 USAFA Map...... 36

Calendar...... 38

Your Cadet’s Year At-A-Glance My Cadet’s Info...... 64 Planning for the Year...... 65 Milestones and Legacy Events...... 66 Clubs...... 68

Celebrate the Legacy Graduation Checklist...... 69

Learn the Lingo USAFA Terms/Locations...... 77 USAFA Vocabulary...... 78 Cadet Rank and Insignia...... 83 Air Force Ranks and Insignia...... 85

Prep School Information Chain of Command...... 86 Vocabulary...... 87 Calendar...... 89 Map...... 90 Parent Program...... 91

9 USAFA Parents Clubs For more information, contact Marie Nikovits at [email protected] or (719) 333-3828

USAFA Parents Club of Alaska USAFA Parents Club of Alabama American Samoa USAFA Parents Club USAFA Parents Association of Arkansas Arizona Parents Club Central California USAFA Parents Association

Get In volv ed USAFA Tri-Counties Parents Association (California) USAFA Parents Association of Northern California USAFA Parents Association of Los Angeles County Orange County Air Force Academy Parents Association California Capital Region Air Force Academy Parents Club Afa Parents Association of San Diego Inland Empire Parents Association of Southern California USAFA Colorado Parents Club USAFA Cadet Parents Association of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts USAFA Parents Club of Delaware Florida Gulf Coast Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of South Florida U.S. Service Academies Parents of The Big Bend (Florida) Northeast Florida USAFA Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of Central Florida USAFA Georgia Parents Club Hawaii USAFA Parents Club USAFA Iowa Falcon Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of Idaho USAFA Northern Illinois Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of Central Illinois South Central Illinois USAFA Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of Indiana Air Capital (Kansas) USAFA Parents Club Mo-Kan Usaf Academy Parents Club (Borders Kansas And Missouri) Falcon Families of Kentucky USAFA Parents Club of Louisiana USAFA Cadet Parents Association of Eastern Massachusetts USAFA Parents Association of Maine Charles Griffin AFA Parents Club of Western Michigan USAFA Parents Club of Eastern Michigan AFA Parents Club of Minnesota USAFA Parents Club of Metro St. Louis Southwest Missouri Afa Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of Mississippi USAFA Montana Parents Club Eastern North Carolina USAFA Parents Club

10 Piedmont North Carolina USAFA Parents Club Afa Parents Club of North Dakota Get In volv ed USAFA Parents Club of Nebraska USAFA Parents Association of New Hampshire AFA Parents Association of New Jersey USAFA Parents Association of New Mexico Service Academy Parents Club of Las Vegas, Inc. U.S. Service Academies Parents Organization of Northern Nevada Central New York Parents Club USAFA Long Island Parents Club Parents Club of Northeastern New York USAFA Parents Association of Western New York USAFA Parents Club of Greater New York USAFA Parents Association of Greater Rochester Northeast Ohio Afa Parents Association Northwest Ohio Air Force Academy Parents Club USAFA Parents Association of Central and Southeast Ohio USAFA Parents Club of Cincinnati (Southwest Ohio) Miami Valley (Ohio) Afa Parents Club USAFA Parents Club of Central-Western Oklahoma Northeast Oklahoma Parents of USAFA USAFA Parents Club of Oregon and Southwest Washington Falcon Families of Central Pennsylvania Southeastern Pennsylvania Afa Parents Association AFA Parents Association of Western Pennsylvania USAFA Parents Association of Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts USAFA Parents Club of South Carolina Eastern South Dakota USAFA Parents Club West River (South Dakota) USAFA Parents Club Middle Tennessee USAFA Parents Club Mid-South Tennessee Chapter of USAFA Parents Club USAFA East Tennessee Parents Club USAFA Parents Association of West Texas And Southern New Mexico North Texas USAFA Parents Club South Texas Afa Parents Club Southeast Texas Afa Parents Association Central Texas USAFA Parents Association Texas Permian Basin USAFA Parents Club Utah USAFA Parents Club USAFA Parents Association of The National Capital Area (Virginia, Washington D.C. and Maryland) USAFA Parents Club of Eastern Virginia Vermont Usaf Academy Parents Club USAFA Parents Association of Washington State Wisconsin Afa Parents Association West Virginia Parents Club Ohio Valley (West Virginia) USAFA Parents Club Wyoming Afa Parents Club

11 GEORGIA PARENTS CLUB Offers indestructible Air Force Academy Tervis Tumblers & Lids Tervis Water Bottles Keeps your drinks hot or cold longer.

Plus Clear Stadium Bags and Air Force Napkins

Visit www.usafagapc.org for complete description of our great products and information on ordering.

Thank You for Supporting the USAFA Georgia Parents Club and the Georgia Cadets A Portion of our Proceeds Support the Rando Fund Proud Sponsor of Lt. Joseph Helton Outstanding Element Leader Award

12 Get In volv ed

Graduate Chapters You will find it important to connect with your local graduate chapter, as they have the experience and Academy insight necessary to support you and your cadet through the Academy experience. As a graduate chapter, they also have the responsibility of supporting Academy heritage and, together with all those involved in developing our future leaders, ensuring the next generation is equipped and ready to join the Long Blue Line. Ways to connect include, but are not limited to:

• Appointee Send-off Parties • Air Force Falcon Football Game Watch Parties • Away Game Tailgates • Founders Day Celebrations

In some cases, when cadets engage in organized travel for academic, athletic, or recreational purposes, the organizer will reach out to the graduate chapter in the destination area to provide meals, lodging, or opportunities for social functions. Being connected to the graduate chapter will allow you to be part of these types of communications and planning.

13 National Events You will likely not be able to make it back to Colorado Springs for every event at the Academy; however, there are many opportunities to attend functions held across the country – some may even be in your area.

Air Force Falcons Football Away Tailgates and Fan Fests Each year, your AOG hosts tailgates and Fan Fest celebrations at select away games to rally Air Force fans as they battle on the “fields of friendly strife.”

2014 Football Season Events Get In volv ed Saturday, September 13 at Georgia State (Atlanta, Georgia) Saturday, October 11 at Utah State (Logan, Utah) Saturday, November 1 at Army (West Point, New York) Saturday, November 22 at San Diego State (San Diego, California)

USAFA Golf Tour In 2014, your AOG will host five golf tournaments in cities across the country in which there are large populations of graduates and Academy supporters. Check http://golf.usafa.org for future tournament schedules.

2014 Tour Schedule May 30 ...... Dayton Classic (Dayton, Ohio) August 8...... Seattle Classic (Redmond, Washington) September 12 ...... Atlanta Classic (Braselton, Georgia) October 10...... DC Classic (Davidsonville, Maryland) October 24...... San Antonio Classic (San Antonio, Texas)

Founders Day Celebrations The Air Force Academy and the Association of Graduates host a celebration of the Air Force Academy’s founding every April. Each year, an increasing number of graduate chapters choose to host their own Founders Day celebration to commemorate the founding of the institution we all hold so dear. We encourage these gatherings and send representatives of our Senior Staff, when we can, to support the ongoing recognition of the role the Academy has played in our country since its establishment.

For more information on these and other events across the country, visit www.usafa.org/calendar/events.

14 Frequently Asked Questions Get In volv ed After interacting closely with thousands of parents and cadets over the past forty-nine years, we hear many of the same questions and concerns from new and experienced parents alike. Below are a few that you may find helpful. For more detail and the most up-to-date information available, visit www.usafa.org/Connect/Parents.

Q: What if my cadet calls me and says he/she is having personal problems? A: Here are some resources your cadet can use: • Peak Performance Center- This resource offers a full range of counseling and performance enhancement services, similar to counseling centers at other colleges and universities. • Personal Ethics and Education Representatives (PEERs) – Two cadets in each squadron are designated to help address concerns and seek professional guidance on stress, relationships, eating disorders, equal opportunity and treatment. • Chaplains – The cadet chaplain’s office provides counseling and spiritual advice. • Sponsor Program – Cadets are automatically assigned a sponsor family during Basic Cadet Training. Sponsors serve as the cadet’s mentor, friend, and advisor, providing a caring atmosphere in which to relax away from the pressures of the formal Academy environment.

Q: What if my cadet calls me and says he/she is having academic problems? A: Here are some resources your cadet can use: • Extra Instruction – Encourage your cadet to seek extra instruction from their course instructor. • Student Academic Services – This service provides academic counseling, study strategies, time management, reading enhancement and other assistance to help your cadet become a more efficient and effective student.

Q: How can I be more involved in my cadet’s life while he/she is at the Academy? A: Join your local Parent Club/AOG Chapter! This will be one of your best resources during your time as a USAFA parent because it will allow you to interact with other parents who have, are, and will be asking the same questions you are. The AOG works alongside parent groups to ensure the number one focus of the Academy–our cadets are well-cared for and successful.

Q: Can I purchase a cadet saber? A: The AOG sells the cadet saber to graduates. For current pricing, please contact the AOG at (719) 472-0300. For gifting options, see page 32.

15 Cadet Help A variety of organizations are readily accessible for cadets to get help when they need it. In most instances, cadets need to initiate contact with the following organizations. In some cases, cadets will be directed to seek guidance.

Peak Performance Center (719) 333-2107 Administrative Director: Lt. Col. D. Franklin Swayne Location: Sijan Hall, Room 2A13

Get In volv ed The Peak Performance Center is committed to promoting the dignity, respect, and well-being of each cadet. The center facilitates the development and inspiration of future leaders by maximizing personal potential and preventing and working through interpersonal conflicts. Cadets who use our center are viewed as vital partners in a growth-oriented, future-focused process intended to enhance their effectiveness in personal and professional endeavors. The center seeks to remove barriers to optimal academic and behavioral functioning and to enhance professional development across the Cadet Wing through a range of services: clinical counseling services, outreach and educational training, and organizational assistance toward individual and institutional enhancement. Counseling is offered for anxiety and fears, assertiveness, depression, eating problems, family problems, grief and loss, relationships, self-image/self- confidence and stress, and substance abuse prevention. The Center also offers biofeedback training for performance enhancement in the area of sports, flying, academics, and combat training. The Peak Performance Center has been granted full accreditation since September 1991 by the International Association of Counseling Services. The counselors are all master’s or doctoral level mental health providers and/or Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors.

Cadet Clinic (719) 333-5180 The cadet clinic provides health care for cadets.

Chaplains (719) 333-2636 The cadet chaplain’s office provides counseling and spiritual advice.

Airman and Family Readiness Flight – Financial Counseling (719) 333-3444 Financial counseling is available by appointment Monday through Thurs- day during normal duty hours (0730-1630).

16 Get In volv ed Sexual Assault Hotline (719) 333-7272 The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program provides 24/7 confidential response to all reports of sexual assault (regardless of when they occurred) and promotes assistance and support for victims of sexual assault to promote personal and academic growth. Contact the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) for all reports of sexual assault.

Sponsor Program (719) 333-2727 The sponsor program provides cadets with exposure to military family life and positive adult role models. Cadets are automatically assigned a sponsor family during Basic Cadet Training. Cadets can request a specific sponsor if the sponsor lives in the immediate Colorado Springs area.

Student Academic Services (719) 333-4172 Student Academic Services provides a variety of assistance, including academic counseling, study strategies and time management, reading enhancement, scholarship programs, writing assistance, and evening tutoring in technical/quantitative subjects.

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Class Club

Benefits Class Club members will enjoy the following benefits: 6 weeks of BCT Coverage WebGuy Coverage – full access to www.usafawebguy.com, including but not limited to: Daily Blogs Free Downloads of videos and pictures Parent Forums Checkpoints Online, ZoomiEnews and 7258’ Acceptance Parade Recognition Exemplar Dinner and Ceremony Commitment Dinner and Ceremony Ring Dining Out and Ceremony 100th Night and First Air Force Assignments Graduation Week 15% Discount at AOG Store (Doolittle Hall and online)

Dues The Class Club Full Access dues will be collected monthly by credit card in the amount of $20.18. This is a 4-year membership. A minimum 12-month commitment is required.

See usafawebguy.com for details. Exclusions may apply.

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Parent Member Plus

The ultimate Parent Membership includes all of the Class Club benefits PLUS: Benefits for Parents to enjoy while enrolled until Graduation: Free Admission for two to the WebGuy Social (on Parents’ Weekend) Eligible for exclusive “WebGuy Giveaways”* Personalized ID Cards for you and your cadet! Flash Sales up to 50% off merchandise four times a year

Benefits for Parents to enjoy for a lifetime: Electronic Life Member after graduation for Parent/Guardian** Checkpoints, ZoomiEnews, and 7258’ Unlimited WebGuy access with no fee 15% discount at AOG Store (Doolittle Hall and online)

Benefits for Graduates to enjoy for a lifetime: Checkpoints, ZoomiEnews, and 7258’ Graduate Directory Career Services Valuable networking opportunities Reunion Discount Discounted Travel Options 15% discount at AOG Store (Doolittle Hall and online) ... and much more!

*See usafawebguy.com for details. Exclusions may apply. **Limit one membership per household. 19 s t ay co nne c ted

Academy Phone Guide

Note: The Academy’s area code is 719 Peak Performance Center...... 333-2107 Admissions Office...... (800) 443-9266 Airman and Family Readiness Flight...... 333-3444/3445 Aero Club...... 333-4423/4542 Aeronautics/DFAN...... 333-4010 Air Academy Federal Credit Union...... 593-8600 Armed Forces Bank...... 472-1090 Association of Graduates...... 472-0300 Astronautics/DFAS...... 333-4110 Athletic Ticket Office & Information Center...... (800) 666-8723 Barber Shop Cadet (Sijan Hall)...... 333-4625 Beauty/Barber Shop Cadet (Vandenberg Hall)...... 333-4563 Behavioral Science & Leadership...... 333-2514 Biology/DFB...... 333-2720 Cadet Book Store (Vandenberg Hall)...... 472-6100 Cadet Chapel Tourism & Events...... 333-4515 Cadet Clinic...... 333-5180 Cadet Command Center...... 333-2910 Cadet Dental Clinic...... 333-5190 Cadet Optometry Clinic...... 333-5189 Cadet Pay...... 333-3160 20 St ay co nne c ted

Cadet Personnel...... 333-3244 Cadet Wing Media...... 333-4644 Cadet Staff Group 1...... 333-4390 Cadet Staff Group 2...... 333-4572 Cadet Staff Group 3...... 333-4312 Cadet Staff Group 4...... 333-4681 Cadet Scheduling...... 333-9216 Cadet Transcripts...... 333-3970 Chaplain’s Office...... 333-4694 Chaplains & Programs...... 333-2636 Chemistry/DFC...... 333-2960 Civil & Environmental Engineering/DFCE...... 333-3150 Computer Science/DFCS...... 333-3590 Economics and Geography/DFEG...... 333-3080 Electrical Engineering/DFEE...... 333-3190 Engineering Mechanics/DFEM...... 333-2531 English and Fine Arts/DFENG...... 333-3930 Foreign Language/DFF...... 333-3820 Golf Course Reservations...... 333-2606 History/DFH...... 333-3230 Intramural Program...... 333-2766 Language Learning Center...... 333-2103 Law/DFL...... 333-3680 Library...... 333-2590 Management/DFM...... 333-4130 Mathematical Science/DFMS...... 333-4470 Mental Health Center...... 333-5177 Outdoor Rec/Supply(Vandenburg)...... 333-3138 Parents Club Liaison (Marie Nikovits) Toll Free:...... 333-3828 PE Dept...... 333-2798 Philosophy/DFPY...... 333-4070 Physics/DFP...... 333-3510 Political Science/DFPS...... 333-2270 Postal Service Cadet Station...... 472-1198 Registrar’s Office...... 333-2106/3970 Law Enforcement Desk (Non-Emergency)...... 333-2000 Sexual Assault Hotline...... 333-7272 Sponsor Program...... 333-2727 USAFA Equestrian Center...... 333-4607

21 Cadet Squadron Phone Guide

1st Group

Mighty Mach One Eagle Eight CQ: 333-4534 s t ay co nne c ted CQ: 333-4491 AOC: 333-4543 AOC: 333-4550

Delta Tau Deuce Viking Nine CQ: 333-4533 CQ: 333-4574 AOC: 333-4537 AOC: 333-4552

Cerberus Three CQ: 333-4640 Tiger Ten AOC: 333-4548 CQ: 333-4500 AOC: 333-4569

Fightin’ Fourth CQ: 333-4612 2nd Group AOC: 333-4541

Reb Eleven Wolfpack CQ: 333-4581 CQ: 333-4535 AOC: 333-4539 AOC: 333-4524

Dirty Dozen Raging Bull Six CQ: 333-4448 CQ: 333-4551 AOC: 333-4608 AOC: 333-4532

Shadow Seven Bulldawgs CQ: 333-4492 CQ: 333-4757 AOC: 333-4518 AOC: 333-4758

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3rd Group

Cobras Blackjacks CQ: 333-4759 CQ: 333-4666 AOC: 333-4767 AOC: 333-4456

War Eagles Raptors CQ: 333-4669 CQ: 333-4659 AOC: 333-4668 AOC: 333-4594

Proud Chicken Barnstormers Hawks CQ: 333-4529 CQ: 333-4675 AOC: 333-4457 AOC: 333-4671

Stalag 17 Phantoms CQ: 333-4501 CQ: 333-4447 AOC: 333-4785 AOC: 333-4559

Knightriders Rock Hard Redeye CQ: 333-4777 CQ: 333-4695 AOC: 333-4768 AOC: 333-4798

Wolverines Barons CQ: 333-4741 CQ: 333-6842 AOC: 333-4751 AOC: 333-4766

Thunderbirds Tough Twenty CQ: 333-4660 Trolls AOC: 333-4424 CQ: 333-4712 AOC: 333-4702 Blackbirds CQ: 333-4748 AOC: 333-4408

23 Black Panthers Proud Pink Panthers CQ: 333-4717 AOC: 333-4488 CQ: 333-4306 AOC: 333-4476

Knights CQ: 333-4711 Hardbody Sky s t ay co nne c ted AOC: 333-4465 Raiders CQ: 333-0667 AOC: 333-0337

4th Group All Stars CQ: 333-0668 AOC: 333-0338 Grim Reapers CQ: 333-3050 AOC: 333-4474 Jedi Knights CQ: 333-0669 AOC: 333-0339 Roadrunners CQ: 333-3052 AOC: 333-4451 Warhawks CQ: 333-0670 AOC: 333-0340 Ratz CQ: 333-4300 AOC: 333-4604

Loose Hawgs CQ: 333-4304 AOC: 333-3444

Huge Wild Weasels CQ: 333-4311 AOC: 333-3406

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Colorado Springs Overview and Area Highlights*

Colorado Springs is located at the foot of Pikes Peak, 70 miles south of Denver. With a land area of 194.87 square miles and a 2014 estimated population of 446,439, Colorado Springs is Colorado’s largest city in terms of area and second only to Denver in population. The Air Force Academy is the 2nd largest undergraduate school in the city, trailing only the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) in enrollment. Source: Colorado Springs Regional Business Alliance (Fall 2012) Throughout its history, Colorado Springs has been a popular tourist destination due to its surrounding natural beauty and magnificent climate. Aside from the Air Force Academy, some of the more visited attractions in and around Colorado Springs include:

• The Broadmoor Hotel • Cheyenne Mountain Zoo • Garden of the Gods • Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain • Cave of the Winds • Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame & American Cowboy Museum • United States Olympic Headquarters and Training Center

Average Days of Sunshine: 257 Average Annual Precipitation: 16.2 inches Elevation: 6,035 feet Elevation at USAFA: 7,258 feet *Source: City of Colorado Springs, 2014

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Visitors Guide

To help plan your trip to visit your cadet at the Academy, we offer an online Visitors Guide (www.usafa.org/visitorsguide). There, you will find local businesses who are proud to support your Air Force Academy! In addition to the abbreviated visitor guide in our Parent Handbook, the online Visitors Guide offers suggestions on dining, lodging, recreation, and much more!

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Tri Lakes

Texas Roadhouse 16196 Jackson Creek Pkwy Monument, CO 80132 719.481.9980 texasroadhouse.com 3.6 Miles from North Gate

Tri Lakes Visitor Center 300 Hwy 105, Monument, CO 80132 719.481.3282 trilakesvisitorcenter.com 5.9 miles from North gate

Rosie’s Diner 411 Colorado 105 Monument, CO 80132 719.481.3287 eatatrosies.com 6.0 Miles from North Gate

1492 Chocolates 174 Washington St Monument, CO 80132 855.700.1492 1492chocolates.com 6.3 Miles from North Gate

Monument Hill Country Club 18945 Pebble Beach Way Monument, CO 80132 719.481.2272 monumenthillcc.com 8.1 Miles from North Gate

your cadet’s home away from home.

27 Mention you saw us in the Parent Handbook and receive 20% off the Regular Rate*

trueblue BUSINESS THE ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES

Fairfield Inn & Suites Air Force Academy North Gate I-25 Exit 158 Monument 15275 Struthers Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921 www.fairfieldinn.com/cossm 719.488.4644 *Discounts cannot be combined. Not valid USAFA Parent’s Weekend or Graduation Week.

Exclusive Parent Offer

28 ROLL INTO XL FUN AT

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29 North Gate

Bourbon Brothers Southern Kitchen Bass Pro Dr. Colo. Spgs, CO 80921 719.219.1830 bourbonbrotherssouthernkitchen.com 0.2 Miles from North Gate

Apple Retail Store

V isi t you r ca det 1685 Briargate Pkwy, Colo. Spgs, CO 80920 719.522.4460 apple.com 6.0 Miles from North Gate

Bird Dog BBQ 1645 Briargate Pkwy #243, Colo. Spgs, CO 80920 719.599.4655 birddogbbq.com 6.0 Miles from North Gate

California Pizza Kitchen 1645 Briargate Pkwy #203, Colo. Spgs, CO 80920 719.260.8054 cpk.com 6.0 Miles from North Gate

Back East Bar & Grill 9475 Briar Village Point #168, Colo. Spgs, CO 80920 719.264.6161 backeastbarandgrill.com 6.1 Miles from North Gate

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South Gate – Garden of the Gods

Jimmy John’s – Chapel Hills 1590 Briargate Blvd Colo. Spgs, CO 80920 719.203.3278 jimmyjohns.com 1.9 Miles from South Gate

*P.B. & Jellies – Chapel Hills mall 1710 Briargate Blvd Colo. Spgs, CO 80920 719.465.2686 pbandjellies.com 1.9 Miles from South Gate

Peak Vista Inn & Suites 7265 Commerce Center Dr. Colo. Spgs, CO 80919 719.598.7500 bestwesterncolorado.com Plus 2.0 miles from South gate

Embassy Suites 7290 Commerce Center Dr. Colo. Spgs, CO 80919 719.599.9100 coloradosprings.embassysuites.com 2.0 miles from South gate

Marriott-Colorado Springs 5580 Tech Center Drive Colo. Spgs, CO 80919 719.260.1800 marriott.com 3.5 miles from South gate

Hyatt Place 503 W. Garden of the Gods Rd. Colo. Spgs, CO 80907 719.265.9385 coloradosprings.place.hyatt.com 4.6 miles from South gate

*Grad owned business

Serving Cadets since 1985 “Because every grad should have one”

Saber Cases (designed by ‘86 Grad) Personalized gifts for every cadet, from doolie to firstie...for AOCs, AMTs, family and sponsors

Letter openers (All Services) Ornaments Pistol Case [email protected] 800-984-2160 4434 Douglas Road, Millstadt, IL 62260 www.randrwoodcrafts.com Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter, @randrwoodcrafts

32 10 25 12 10 20 OUTDOOR ART SHOPS & ReSTAURANTS GALLeRieS BOUTiQUeS & WiNe BARS PATiOS FRee PARKiNG LOTS

HiSTORiC OCC. THe PLACe TO Be .

AIR FORCE 2South Food + Wine Bar ACADEMY 2 S. 25th St | 719.351.2806 (9 mi. north) 2southwinebar.com EXIT Arati Gallery Uintah 143 2425 W. Colorado Ave | 719.636.1901 Colorado aratiartists.com Hwy 24 Bon Ton’s Café 31st St I-25

2601 W. Colorado Ave | 719.634.1007 26th St bontonscafe.com

21st St EXIT Front Range BBQ 141 8th St 2330 W. Colorado Ave | 719.632.2596 frbbq.com Jake & Telly’s Greek Taverna Old Town GuestHouse 2616 W. Colorado Ave | 719.633.0406 115 S. 26th St | 719.632.9194 jakeandtellys.com oldtown-guesthouse.com The Loft Music Venue & Theater Pizzeria Rustica (USAF veterAn-owned) 2506 W. Colorado Ave | 719.445.9278 2527 W. Colorado Ave | 719.632.8121 loftmusicvenue.com pizzeriarustica.com Mason Jar Restaurant TAPAteria (USAF veterAn-owned) 2925 W. Colorado Ave | 719.632.4820 2607 W. Colorado Ave | 719.471.8272 masonjarcolorado.com tapateria.com Mountain Moppets Children’s Clothing & Gift Boutique Thunder & Buttons 2532 W. Colorado Ave | 719.633.5544 2415 W. Colorado Ave | 719.447.9888 mountainmoppets.com thunderandbuttons.com Ask about Military Discounts | VisitOldColoradoCity.com |

33 Downtown Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center 30 W. Dale Street, Colo. Spgs, CO 80903 719.634.5581 csfineartscenter.org 8.6 miles from South gate

*Rasta Pasta 405 N. Tejon Street Colo. Spgs, CO 80903

V isi t you r ca det 719.481.6888 rastapastacs.com 9.0 miles from South gate

Colorado Expressions 122 E. Kiowa Street, Colo. Spgs, CO 80903 719.630.7723 coexpressions.com 9.1 miles from South gate

*Jack Quinn Irish Alehouse & Pub 21 S. Tejon Street, Colo. Spgs, CO 80903 719.385.0766 jackquinnspub.com 9.3 miles from South gate

Best Western Executive Inn and Suites 1440 Harrison Road, Colo. Spgs, CO 80905 719.576.2371 book.bestwestern.com 9.4 miles from South gate

The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel 8 S. Nevada Ave Colo. Spgs, CO 80903 719.323.2000 wyndham.com 10.5 Miles from South Gate

Double Tree by Hilton 1775 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. Colo. Spgs, CO 80906 719.576.8900 doubletreecosprings.com 14.7 Miles from South Gate *Grad owned business

To see other local merchants you can visit in the Downtown area, visit downtown80903.com!

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Insurance, Banking, Investments, Retirement, Advice. USAA. We know what it means to serve. usaa.com/aog 1

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USAA Car Buying Service makes finding your next car easy and fun. Start searching at usaa.com/carbuying USAA Car Buying Service provided by TrueCar, Inc.

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seattle classic

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webguy social parents’ weekend parents’ weekend (open to all parents)

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at georgia state Commandant’s Training Day M10 10 T10 11 No Classes 12 13

Falcon Heritage Forum Falcon Heritage Forum Falcon Heritage Forum M12 17 T12 18 M13 19 20

vs. boise state

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USAA Bank used the values that drive our military to build a better bank. See how we’re different at usaa.com/aog Plus Bank products provided by USAA Federal Peak Vista Inn & Suites Savings Bank, Member FDIC. 719-598-7500 Calendar accurate as of May 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday

Insurance, Banking, Investments, Retirement, Advice. USAA. We know what it means to serve. Plus usaa.com/aog Peak Vista Inn & Suites 719-598-7500

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columbus day

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19 M23 20 T23 21 octo b er 2014 26 T25 27 M26 28 Photo by 2nd Lt. Joseph Cole ’14 Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

vs. navy

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aog fan fest d.c. classic

at utah state

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san antonio classic

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Get the credit card that lets you earn more, save more and support AOG. Learn more at usaa.com/aog Credit cards provided by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC.

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novem b er Returns 1900 Leave Begins LMD 2014 30 M35 24 T35 25 Photo by 2nd Lt. Joseph Cole ’14 Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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at unlv

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USAA Car Buying Service makes finding your next car easy and fun. Start searching at Plus usaa.com/carbuying Peak Vista Inn & Suites USAA Car Buying Service 31 719-598-7500 provided by TrueCar, Inc. Calendar accurate as of May 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday USAA Bank used the values that drive our military to build a better bank. See how we’re Plus different at usaa.com/aog Bank products provided by USAA Peak Vista Inn & Suites Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC. 719-598-7500

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fe b ruary Peak Vista Inn & Suites 2015 719-598-7500 Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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Get the credit card that lets you earn more, save more and support AOG. Learn more at usaa.com/aog This credit card program is issued by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC.

Calendar accurate as of May 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday

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Insurance, Banking, Investments, Retirement, Advice. USAA. We know what it means Plus to serve. usaa.com/aog Peak Vista Inn & Suites 719-598-7500 Calendar accurate as of May 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday

USAA Bank used the values that drive our military to build a better bank. See how we’re different at usaa.com/aog Bank products provided by USAA Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC.

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19 T33 20 M34 21 april 2015 26 M36 27 T36 28 Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday usafa founders day aog founders day (official) dinner

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Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites M37 29 T37 30 719-598-7500 Calendar accurate as of May 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday

USAA Car Buying Service makes finding your next car easy and fun. Start searching at usaa.com/carbuying USAA Car Buying Service provided by TrueCar, Inc.

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Save time and money when you buy or sell your home with USAA Home Circle. Learn more at Plus usaa.com/homecircle Peak Vista Inn & Suites 719-598-7500 Calendar accurate as of May 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday

Insurance, Banking, Investments, Retirement, Advice. USAA. We know Plus what it means to serve. Peak Vista Inn & Suites usaa.com/aog 719-598-7500

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29 30 31 Calendar accurate as of May 2014 My Cadet’s Info Your Cadet’s Year at–a–Glan c e

My Cadet’s Information Class Color______Class Exemplar______Squadron Name and Number______

Contacts Squadron Commander Name______Phone______Email______

My local Parents Club President______Phone______Email______

Important Dates Academic First Day ______Acceptance Day and Parade ______Recognition ______Exemplar Dinner ______Commitment Dinner ______Ring Dance ______100th Night ______Graduation ______

Deadlines Class Ring Order ______Graduation Announcements and Invitations Orders ______

64 Your Cadet’s Year Your Cadet’s Year

Planning for the Year Regardless of what year your cadet may be, there are standard “to-do’s” that apply to all parents. We have compiled a list of those we feel will be most helpful. at–a–Glan c e

c Book flight for Parents’ Weekend c Book lodging for Parents’ Weekend (area hotels typically fill up quickly; sometimes up to a year in advance) c Plan activities for Parents’ Weekend c Assist your cadet with booking holiday plane tickets c Ensure your cadet has coordinated travel to and from the airport for Winter Break c Join your local Parents Club c Attend the WebGuy Social during Parents’ Weekend c Select a Recognition gift or symbol of congratulations Ship by ______(Fourth-class only) c Speak with your cadet over Winter Break to encourage them in their cadet career

Notes

Follow us on social media for announcements and other information Facebook http://www.facebook.com/AirForceGrads Twitter http://www.twitter.com/AirForceGrads Linked In http://bit.ly/linkedinaog

65 Milestones and Legacy Events

Fourth-class, CLASS OF 2018 August Acceptance Parade The Acceptance Parade takes place after the Basics complete Basic Cadet Training (BCT). At this parade, they are “accepted” into the Cadet Wing and they become fourth-class cadets. The Legacy Class (Class of 1968) is invited to view the parade and present Contrails to the outstanding Basic from each of the eight squadrons. This parade is open to the public. Cadet families who choose to attend are able to view the parade and pin-on ceremonies, and spend Your Cadet’s Year at–a–Glan c e approximately two hours with their cadet. Speak with your local Parents Club for more details on this event.

March Recognition Recognition is the formal finale of the fourth-class year when the fourth-class cadets are “recognized” as upperclass cadets and are allowed to wear the Prop and Wings insignia on their flight caps. It is a vital and traditional segment of the Academy experience and is a ceremonial acknowledgement that the fourth-class has successfully met the military training requirements and is prepared to continue the rigorous Academy journey. Source: academyadmissions.com.

Third-class, CLASS OF 2017 October Exemplar Dinner Since the Class of 2000, each class has chosen someone who exemplifies the type of person the class wishes to emulate. The third-class cadets celebrate this selection at a formal dinner, which Legacy Class (Class of 1967) members are invited to attend. The 2017 exemplar is Col. George E. “Bud” Day, Vietnam POW fighter pilot.

Second-class, CLASS OF 2016 August Commitment Dinner Once the cadets return to the Academy for their second-class year, they incur the financial or active duty “commitment” for their education if they depart the Academy prior to Graduation. This profound commitment is celebrated with a formal dinner.

66 Your Cadet’s Year Your Cadet’s Year

December Class Ring Selection The class ring vendor will visit the Cadet Library to allow cadets to view at–a–Glan c e and reserve genuine stones for their rings. An AOG representative will be onsite to facilitate the event and oversee the “stone show,” ensuring your cadet is well-informed about their selection.

January Class Ring Ordering The class ring vendor will visit the Cadet Library to take orders over three days. At this time, your cadet will choose their ring metal and place their order. An AOG representative will be onsite to facilitate the event, ensuring your cadet is well-informed about their purchase.

May Ring Dining Out and Dance This formal dinner will be one of the most exciting moments of your cadet’s time at the Academy. Cadets will enjoy dinner and receive their class rings at Mitchell Hall, then attend the Ring Dance at Arnold Hall. Significant others are welcome and encouraged to attend this event. Ring Dining Out is also the event at which the official Class Painting is unveiled and presented to the entire class.

First-class, CLASS OF 2015 February 100th Night Approximately 100 nights before graduation, first-class cadets join with their Legacy Class (Class of 1975) to celebrate 100 days to graduation and their commission as second lieutenants. Cadets also receive their base assignments and are given liberty for the weekend to celebrate.

May Graduation Graduation for the USAFA Class of 2015, the 57th Graduating Class and the Wright Brothers Class will take place in Falcon Stadium on 28 May 2015, culminating with an exciting demonstration from the USAF Thunderbirds in the skies over Falcon Stadium. This capstone event will launch new lieutenants into careers of service to their nation and mark the significant achievement that is your cadet’s journey through the U.S. Air Force Academy!

67 Clubs It may seem like the schedule is too rigid to accommodate personal interests, but most find time to enjoy the Academy’s clubs. More than 80 active clubs are offered to develop talents and satisfy hobbies. Not only do the clubs serve to gratify one’s interests, they also foster friendships, personal development and character development. Clubs fall into three categories: mission, competitive, and recreational. For a more comprehensive list, visit academyadmissions.com.

Mission Clubs Support – Chorale, Drum and Bugle, Falconry, Flying Team, Honor

Your Cadet’s Year at–a–Glan c e Guard, Soaring, Wings of Blue Affinity & Culture – Hispanic/Latino, Native American Heritage Club, Way of Life Academic/Professional – Astronomy and Physics, Cyber Warfare, Forensics, Mock Trial, Space Society

Competitive Clubs Cycling, Women’s Fast Pitch Softball, Marathon, Men’s & Women’s Rugby, Ski Racing, Triathlon

Recreational Clubs Bluebards, Car Club, Chess, Equestrian, Karate, Model Engineering, Paintball

68 Celebrate the le g a cy

Graduation Checklist and Tips Before Graduation It is never too early to start planning this event! – Involve your cadet with all of your plans, from the beginning, for the time you and your group of family and friends are in Colora- do Springs. Tip: Use last year’s graduation information, if the current graduation page is not yet available. The information will be fairly similar from year to year. – Book flight and lodging for Graduation Week (Area hotels typically fill up quickly; sometimes up to a year in advance) Tip: When you book your hotel, get the rate in writing and keep it with your other travel documents. – Book a location for your post-graduation party – Order official graduation announcements and diploma frame from CB Graduation Announcements (www.cbgrad.com) – Order graduation invitations and send them as soon as possible, so your guests can make travel arrangements – Purchase a graduation gift for your cadet and a “thank you” gift for your cadet’s sponsor family Tip: Watch for the flags that are flown over the Academy on the day of Graduation to become available on the AOG website (shop.usafa.org).

69 –Ensure when your cadet orders graduation tickets, they add a few extra for unexpected guests. – Arrive early to Commissioning to ensure you get a seat. Tip: Whoever is removing the cadet boards from your cadet’s shoulders should be sure to return them to the cadet, as they will need them the next morning for the Graduation ceremony.

Graduation Day – Dress comfortably and casually! You will be outside in the direct sun most of the afternoon, so leave the suits and dresses for the Commis- sioning ceremonies. Tip: Dress in layers and bring comfortable shoes for all parades and the big day. – Drink water until you can’t drink anymore, then drink another bottle … Dehydration and altitude sickness can ruin Celebrate the le g a cy your time in Colorado Springs, so it’s best to stay hydrated to stave off illness. – Leaving Graduation is a LONG process–up to an hour–so, plan accordingly.

After Graduation Your cadet will usually get 60 days off before they go to their first duty station. If they plan to travel, especially abroad, be sure to help them plan their trip early–as soon as January. Tip: Set up international calling on their cell phone and make a list of all emergency contacts and Consulates in each country they plan to visit.

Most importantly, enjoy every minute with your cadet, friends and family as you celebrate this momentous occasion!

This list was written with the help of 2014 parent and former President of the Colorado Parents Club, Jerri Dexter. This is not an exhaustive list, rather parent-to-parent advice to help make Graduation day more enjoyable!

70 Celebrate your Cadet’s career at the Air Force Academy with a Commemorative Paver

Order online at usafa.org/Heritage/OrderPaver Order by March 1, 2015 to be installed by Class of 2015 graduation!

71 USAFA Distinguished Graduate Award Winners

2001 General Ronald R. Fogleman, ’63 Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64 2002 General Robert C. Oaks, ’59 Dr. Paul G. Kaminski, ’64 2003 Lieutenant General Bradley C. Hosmer, ’59 Mr. Richard T. Schlosberg III, ’65 2004 General Ronald W. Yates, ’60 Honorable Frederick D. Gregory, ’64 2005 General Hansford T. Johnson, ’59 General Michael E. Ryan, ’65 2006 Lieutenant General Robert D. Beckel, ‘59 Major General Edward J. Mechenbier, ‘64 2007 Lieutenant General Ervin J. Rokke, ’62 Mr. Gregg Popovich, ’70 2008 Major General Donald W. Shepperd, ’62 Mr. John H. Martinson, ’70 2009 General Michael Loh, ’60 Honorable Heather Wilson, ’82 2010 Mr. Max James, ’64 General Ralph E. Eberhart, ’68 2011 Brigadier General Ruben A. Cubero, ’61 Mr. Richard D. McConn, ’66 2012 Lieutenant General Marcus A. Anderson, ’61 Mr. Edward E. “Ted” Legasey, ’67 2013 Mr. Bart Holaday, ’65 General William R. Looney III, ’72

72 73 AOG Gift Shop store hours: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 74 Monday–Friday For every season, for every occasion…

Shop today!

Shop 24/7 online! AOG shop.usafa.org75 Graduation Parties v meetings v weddings

Celebrate at Doolittle Hall!

For more information, call 719.472.0300 No military affiliation required

events.usafa.org AOG

76 learn the l i n g o

USAFA Terms/Locations

Acronyms AMT – Academy Military Trainer AOC – Air Officer Commanding AOG – Association of Graduates ARC – Academic Review Committee BCT – Basic Cadet Training BCG – Basic Cadet Glasses BDU – Battle Dress Uniform BX – Base Exchange CC – Cadet Commander/Command Center CE or Cmsng ED – Commissioning Education CIC – Cadet in Charge COB – Close of Business CONUS – Continental United States CS – Cadet Squadron C-Store – Cadet Store CW – Cadet Wing DDT – Directed Development Time DI – Dorm Inspection GR – Graded Review HR – Human Relations IC or ICA – Intercollegiate Athlete IG – Inspector General LMD – Last Military Duty LOS – Limited on Season (Varsity) Status MAJCOM – Major Command MCQ – Military Call to Quarters MFR – Memorandum for Record MWR – Morale, Welfare, and Recreation NCO – Noncommissioned Officer NMF – Noon Meal Formation (an abbreviated parade before lunch) OD – Officer of the Day ODS – Officer Development System OTS – Officer Training School PDT – Personal Development Time

77 POV – Privately Owned Vehicle PQ – Pilot Qualified RECONDO – (physical) reconditioning program SAMI – Saturday Morning Inspection SCA – Scheduling Committee Action SCRB – Squadron Commander Review Board SF – Security Forces SMACK – Soldier Minus Aptitude, Coordination, and Knowledge learn the l i n g o SOD – Senior Officer of the Day SQ – Squadron SSS – Staff Summary Sheet T-Zo – Terrazzo, the heart of the Cadet Area TDY – Temporary Duty UCMJ – Uniform Code of Military Justice UPT – Undergraduate Pilot Training WG – Wing

Air Force/USAFA Vocabulary ABORT – (v.) to discontinue or abandon; (n.) an abandoned take-off (ground abort) or mission. BANDIT – (n.) bogey identified as unfriendly. BASE – (n.) installation owned and/or operated by the Air Force. BASE LEG – (n.) next to last leg of traffic pattern flown perpendicularly to runway. BENT WING – (n.) swept-back wing; (adj.) having bent wings, as a bent wing aircraft. BIRD – (n.) flying machine, usually an aircraft, but sometimes a missile. BLAST – (n.) shock effect of nuclear explosion; also upper-class get-together characterized by its informality. BLUE MAGNET – (n.) a bed comforter made especially for cadets that emits a magnetic pull. BOGEY – (n.) unidentified flying object or radar blip. BOMB – (v.) do extremely poorly, as to “bomb a GR.” BOOM – (v.) that part of a gas-passer that provides fuel. BRAIN BUCKET – (n.) crash helmet. BRAT – (n.) son or daughter of a military family. BREAK – (v. or n.) steep turn either from a formation or in a traffic pattern. BUY THE FARM – (v.) to crash. CANOE U – (n.) a small school which forms a suburb of the capital of Maryland with a campus partly on land and partly in the Severn River.

78 learn the l i n g o

CEILING – (n.) the altitude where the sky becomes more than one-half obscured by clouds as seen by an observer on the ground. COMM SHOP – (n.) the organization that falls under the control of the Commandant and consists of those departments directly affecting the cadet wing. CONTRAILS – (n.) [condensation trails] a visible trail of water droplets or ice crystals formed in the wake of an aircraft flying at high altitude. CONVERTER – (n.) the T-37, since it converts JP-4 fuel directly to noise. CRASH – (n.) a landing in which the vertical velocity is so great and the time spent reducing it to zero is so brief that the acceleration and hence the forces acting become so great as to result in structural failure. CRETIN – (n.) a person lacking in ability to perform acts of nominal coordination or acts requiring minimal thought. CREW CHIEF – (n.) enlisted person or NCO in charge of maintenance of a certain aircraft. DOOLIE – (n.) that insignificant whose rank is measured in negative units; one whose potential for learning is unlimited; one whose days until graduation approach infinity; a fourth class cadet. DOWNWIND – (n.) the leg in a traffic pattern which is parallel to the runway and with the wind. DRAG – (n.) a resistant force exerted in a direction opposite to the direction of motion. ESCAPE VELOCITY – (n.) the initial velocity needed by an object to overcome the pull of gravity. FIGMO – (adj.) that state of being which sometimes occurs when some one has orders from one assignment to another; an attitude of graduating cadets that tends to prevail at the end of spring semester. FINAL – (n.) the last leg of the traffic pattern, the aircraft approaching the runway in the direction of landing (correctly called FINAL APPROACH). FIRSTIE – (n.) that immortal having superhuman powers and disposed to acts of great wonder and cunning; a first class cadet. FLAMEOUT – (n.) engine failure in a jet engine when combustion no longer takes place. FULL BORE – (adv.) throttle full open. GARBAGE – (n.) hardware on an aircraft which can be retracted, usually including flaps, landing gear, and speed brakes. GLASS CAGES – (n.) cadet in charge of quarters complex (Sijan and Vandenberg Halls). GROUND POUNDER – (n.) non-flying officer. HACK – (n.) a time synchronization. (v.) to do; to get through, as in “hack the course;” ability to cope with a situation, as in “he can’t hack it.”

79 HEAD SHED – (n.) those organizations and departments on or falling under the jurisdiction of the Superintendent and their staff. HUDSON HIGH – (n.) a little school on the Hudson River having 205 years of tradition unhampered by progress. HYPERSONIC – (adj.) speed in excess of Mach 5. HYPOXIA – (n.) oxygen lack. INITIAL – (n.) entry leg into a traffic pattern. INTERDICTION – (n.) bombing of points on the enemy’s supply route in attempt to cut off their supply line.

learn the l i n g o INTRAMURDER – (n.) athletic competition between squadrons. JETSTREAM – (n.) a high velocity wind usually occurring just below the tropopause in temperate zones. JOCK – (n.) that individual performing superhuman feats of physical dexterity; an athlete. LIFT – (n.) the force upon an aircraft that acts in an upward direction opposing the pull of gravity. LOX (n.) Liquid Oxygen – a widely used oxidizing agent in missile and rocket fuels, also used in some aircraft oxygen systems. MACH – (n.) the speed of sound; unit of measurement of speed in relation to the local speed of sound, such as “.9 Mach or Mach 1.” MAX – (n. or adj.) the maximum: 100%; (v.) to achieve the maximum, as in to “max a quiz.” NINO BALDACCI – (n.) that individual having entered with the Class of ’59 and remaining until the present time never having been off academic probation and never having taken a privilege. He is a perpetual throwback near and dear to all cadets. OPS – (n.) abbreviation for “operations,” as in Base Ops. ORBIT – (v.) to circle. POST – (v.) an order signifying to a subordinate that their presence is no longer desired. PITCH – (n.) rotation about the lateral axis of an aircraft. PORT – (adj.) to the left of the front, or bow, of a ship. PRO – (adj.) short for “probation.” RACK – (n.) that piece of furniture in a cadet room with magical luring powers, (v.) to rack. ROLL – (n.) rotation about the horizontal axis of an aircraft. SANDBAG – (v.) to participate in a flight without performing the duties of a crew member; to go along for the ride. SCRAMBLE – (v.) to get an aircraft or missile in the air, ready for combat, in the shortest possible time; (n.) the act of scrambling. STARBOARD – (adj.) to the right of the front, or bow, of a ship.

80 learn the l i n g o

SUPER DOOLIE – (n.) one of those who are given authority without the responsibility to fulfill their mission. THRUST – (n.) a propelling force exerted on an aircraft or missile. TOWER – (n.) control tower; the level in the dining hall where wing staff eats (usually STAFF TOWER). TRUCK DRIVER – (n.) pilot of an aircraft with more than one engine. TWO – (n.) [see also POST] a command relating to the subordinate to return to whatever they were occupied with before being interrupted. VATOR – (n.) an ingenious device designed to fail when the wing returns from holidays or is in the process of moving rooms; as in “hold the ...” VERTIGO – (n.) a condition in which one has the false sensation of turning or falling, usually accompanied by a loss of spatial orientation; uncertainty of the attitude of the aircraft. VISIBILITY – (n.) the maximum distance at which objects can be clearly distinguished. YAW – (n.) rotation about the vertical axis of an aircraft. ZILCH – (n.) opposite of max; nothing. ZOOMIE – (n.) that term by which a cadet is commonly known among jealous civilians.

Seven Basic Responses

During Basic Cadet Training (BCT) and Basic Military Training (BMT), there are only seven basic responses allowed of a Cadet, or Cadet Candi- date attending the Prep School. They will use only these responses at all times unless directed otherwise by a staff member. When asked, they will introduce themselves as “Basic Cadet [Candidate] ______.” They will also use appropriate titles when addressing superiors and rise when they are addressed by them.

• Yes, Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant. • No, Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant. • No excuse, Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant. • Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant, may I make a statement? • Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant, may I ask a question? • Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant, I do not understand. • Sir/Ma’am/Sergeant, I do not know.

81 82 Photo by C2C Santos D. Bonilla learn the l i n g o Cadet Rank Insigna

First-Class Cadet

Team Captain Examples

Cadet Honor Committee

Team captain designated by lightning bolt over any insignia.

83 Second-Class Cadet learn the l i n g o

Fourth-Class Third-Class Cadet Cadets

Upper Class Cap Insignia Silver Prop and Wings are worn on the flight cap after the near-completion of cadets’ fourth-class year. Cadets who are direct descendants of members of the Army Air Corps, Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASPs), or USAFA graduates who honorably served are authorized to wear the Gold Prop and Wings.

84 learn the l i n g o Air Force Rank and Insignia

Enlisted Officer

Airman Basic (E-1 Airman No rank insignia (E-2)

Airman First Class Senior Airman Second Lieutenant First Lieutenant (E-3) (E-4) (O-1) (O-2)

Staff Sergeant Technical Sergeant (E-5) (E-6)

Captain Major (O-3) (O-4)

Master Sergeant First Sergeant (E-7)

Lieutenant Colonel Colonel (O-5) (O-6)

Senior Master Sergeant First Sergeant (E-8)

Brigadier General Major General (O-7) (O-8) Chief Master Sergeant First Sergeant (E-9)

Lieutenant General General Command Chief Master Chief Master (O-9) (O-10) Sergeant Sergeant of the Air Force 85 Pre p s c hool

Prep School Overview

USAFA Preparatory School Mission To motivate, prepare, and evaluate selected candidates in an educational, military, moral, and physical environment to perform successfully and enhance diversity at USAFA.

Your Prep’s Chain of Command • Commander-in-Chief • Secretary of Defense • Secretary of the Air Force • USAF Chief of Staff • USAFA Superintendent • Commander, USAFA Prep School • Commandant • Vice Commandant • Air Officer Commanding • Military Training Officer • Academy Military Trainer • Your Cadet Candidate

86 Cadet Candidate Rank Structure Group Staff Pre p s c hool Title rank Insignia CC C/C Lt Col 4 diamonds Deputy CC C/C Maj 3 diamonds First Sergeant C/C SMSgt 4 circles Honor Officer C/C Capt 2 diamonds Stan/Eval Officer C/C Capt 2 diamonds D&C Officer C/C 1Lt 1 diamond

Squadron Staff Title rank Insignia CC C/C Maj 3 diamonds Director of Ops C/C Capt 2 diamonds First Sergeant C/C MSgt 3 circles Flight CC C/C 1Lt 1 diamond Element Leader C/C TSgt 2 circles Stan/Eval NCO C/C TSgt 2 circles D&C NCO C/C SSgt 1 diamond

CC = Commander Stan/Eval = Standards & Evaluation D&C = Drill & Ceremonies

Acronyms/Terms Commonly Used at the Prep School

ACQ ...... Academic Call to Quarter AFI...... Air Force Instruction AMT...... Academy Military Trainer ARC...... Academic Review Committee BMT...... Basic Military Training BX...... Base Exchange CAB...... Commander’s Action Board CAMIS...... Cadet Administrative/Management Info System CCRI...... Cadet Candidate Room Inspection COB...... Close of Business CoC...... Chain of Command

87 CQ...... Charge of Quarters EI...... Extra Instruction (Academics) FMD...... First Military Duty FSS...... Force Support Squadron HQ...... Headquarters (Building 5220) LMD...... Last Military Duty MPA...... Military Performance Appraisal MTO...... Military Training Officer

Pre p s c hool MRC...... Military Review Committee MWR...... Morale, Welfare, and Recreation NCO...... Non-Commissioned Officer OD...... Officer of the Day ORI...... Open Ranks Inspection OTF...... Over the Fence (An unauthorized absence) PL...... Prep School and Prep School Commander PLA...... Prep School Athletic Department PLC...... Prep School Character Department PLD...... Prep School Academic Department PLI...... Preparatory School Instruction PLT...... Prep School Military Training PT...... Physical Training PTU...... Physical Training Uniform SDO...... Squadron Duty Officer (C/C sitting CQ for Group) SQ...... Squadron TAPS...... End of Day/Lights Out TX...... Transition Exercise UCMJ...... Uniform Code of Military Justice UOD...... Uniform of the Day USAFA...... United States Air Force Academy

Performance Ropes Commander’s List Gold Rope Vice Commander’s List Silver Rope Dean’s List Navy Blue Rope Military Excellence Black Rope Athletic Excellence Navy Blue/Silver Rope

88 Pre p s c hool

Photo by C2C G. Kane Franklin

Prep School Calendar Last Day of BCT...... August 1 Parent’s Weekend...... August 29 – September 31 PL Finals...... October 6 – 7 Thanksgiving Break...... November 26 – 30 Winter Finals...... December 15 – 19 Winter Break...... December20 – January 4 National Character and Leadership Symposium...... February 25 – 27 PL Finals...... March 9 – 10 Recognition...... March 12 – 14 Spring Break...... March 21 – 29 Spring Finals...... May 11 – 15 Dean’s Challenge...... May 11 - 12 PL Grad Parade...... May 18 Graduation...... May 19

Calendar accurate as of May 2014

89 Squadrons N

Ac Bld Black (5216) Parade Field Dining Facility Pre p s c hool HQ Bld (5220)

Atl Hall (5224) Gym

Husky Practice Field Field

Turf Field

90 Pre p s c hool

Prep School Class Club

Prep School Class Club members will enjoy the following benefits: WebGuy Coverage – full access to www.usafawebguy.com, including but not limited to: Dedicated Prep Portal with Prep Blogs & Photo Galleries 18 days of BMT Coverage Free Downloads of videos and high–resolution photos Parent Forums

10 months of Academic Year Coverage, including but not limited to: Birthday Dinners Parents’ Weekend Prep Athletics (fall/winter/spring sports) Parades Graduation Week

15% Discount at the AOG Store (Doolittle Hall and online)

Dues The Prep Full Access dues will be collected monthly by credit card in the amount of $20.19. This is a 12-month membership.

91 Notes

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94 Notes

95 Thanks to the generosity of our True Blue Business sponsors, your Association of Graduates has help in sustaining Academy traditions through the development of cadet and graduate programs. These businesses work closely with us to show their support of our Air Force Academy and military communities.

Support our supporters!

See a current list of sponsors at www.usafa.org/truebluebusiness.

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