Latest news with #U.S.AIRFORCEACADEMY
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Final salute as cadets: USAFA class of 2025
(U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.) — After four years of discipline, determination, and growth, 909 cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) are now commissioned officers, ready to take flight in service to their country. Despite the weather on Thurs. May 29, family and friends packed the stands to celebrate the class of 2025, including graduates from 14 different countries. As the stadium filled with each cadet marching to their seats, loud cheers could be heard from all around, especially from the Meccia family. 'We are happy for Gabriella, ' said Palmina Meccia, Gabriella's mom. 'She was doing gymnastics and military, and her four-year degree, and managed to get it all done and have good grades. We're very proud of her.' FOX21 was able to catch up with Gabriella, shortly after becoming a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force, who was thankful for everyone who showed up to support her. 'It's such a good feeling, and being next to all of my friends, it's just amazing, I can't describe it, especially since the last four years have been so hard, but my family has helped me through it, and I am just so happy,' said Gabrilla. USAFA graduate, Ethan Suman, was also at a loss for words when describing this extraordinary moment. 'I couldn't be prouder,' said 2nd Lt Ethan Suman. 'I'm so happy my family and friends supported me along the way. I'm trying not to tear up, but it's hard not to. Just thank you, everyone, so much. UPDATE: USAFA Thunderbirds Air Show canceled Troy Meink, the 27th Secretary of the Air Force, offered inspiration and encouragement as the new officers began the next chapter in their service. 'There is nothing your class couldn't overcome; it's exactly that tenacity we need,' said Sec. Meink. 'Welcome to the Air Force and Space Force, we are counting on you.' Unfortunately, the Thunderbirds were grounded because of bad weather. Still, families say the weather couldn't dampen the spirit of a milestone day. 'I'm very proud of Gabriella; she persevered after having so many obstacles, like everyone who attends the academy does, but she really persevered and came out on top,' said Gabriella's brother. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
What to know about the Thunderbirds at U.S. Air Force Academy graduation
(U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.) — Looking to see the Thunderbirds? The fighter jets will be performing at the Air Force Academy graduation in Colorado Springs on Thursday, May 29. The graduation ceremony is set to begin at 9 a.m., and the Thunderbirds demonstration is scheduled to occur at the conclusion of graduation. While Thursday morning began cloudy and misty, the Thunderbirds are still set to perform as of 9 a.m. Thursday's weather still calls for rain and even low visibility in some areas due to clouds. U.S. Air Force Academy graduation guide: traffic, entry, Thunderbirds and more According to FOX21 News Storm Team Chief Meteorologist Matt Meister, Thursday will remain cooler than usual for May. Thunderstorms will begin around the middle part of the day and will stick around until 4 p.m. A livestream is available for those who want to watch the U.S. Air Force Academy graduation, Individuals can also check out the Thunderbirds live in the link listed. The community is reminded not to stop along I-25 or any roads on the Academy to watch the Thunderbirds for public safety. Visitors and the Colorado Springs community can expect traffic delays near the Academy on Thursday due to graduation and the fighter jets. Got some good photos of the Thunderbirds? Share them with us here. To watch graduation live, click the link above. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-03-2025
- Yahoo
USAFA Cadet's court-martial ends in acquittal
(U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.) — The U.S. Air Force Academy said a general court-martial for an Air Force Academy cadet has ended in an acquittal. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Cadet set to appear for court-martial on March 3 USAFA said Cadet Everett Smalley elected trial by military judge alone. The trial was four days long, ending on March 6. Cadet Smalley was found not guilty of sexual assault and abusive sexual contact and assault under the articles of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Yahoo
Cadet set to appear for court-martial on March 3
(U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.) — The U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) will begin a general court-martial for Cadet Everett Smalley starting Monday, March 3. According to USAFA, Smalley is accused of attempted abusive sexual contact under Article 80, Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), sexual assault and abusive sexual contact under Article 120, and assault under Article 128. 'At this time, these charges are merely accusations, and Smalley is presumed innocent ofthe charges until, and unless, proven guilty,' USAFA wrote. Court-martials are often multiple days. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Yahoo
Nearly 100 USAFA cadets accused of cheating, violating Honor Code
(U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.) — The U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) said it is currently investigating potential violations of the Honor Code during a weekly knowledge test. USAFA claims nearly 100 cadets have admitted to either cheating or tolerating cheating. The cadets who admitted to violating the Honor Code have received punitive sanctions and rehabilitation actions, and USAFA plans to hold accountable any other cadets identified during the investigation. 'The Honor Code is foundational to the U.S. Air Force Academy and the character necessary of warrior leaders,' said Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent. 'Everyone at our Academy must live and enforce the Honor Code.' According to USAFA, the investigation is ongoing, and it is working to identify whether more cadets cheated on the test or facilitated cheating. USAFA said it is planning to use information found during the investigation to make changes that strengthen enforcement and commitment to the Honor Code. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
