United States Air Force Academy

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), nestled immediately north of Colorado Springs, Colorado, stands as a premier institution dedicated to developing future officers for both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. As the youngest of the nation's five service academies, established in 1954, it holds a unique and vital role in national defense, preparing cadets with the unwavering principles of "Integrity First, Service before self, Excellence in all we do."

The vision for an independent air academy traces back to the dawn of military aviation, with early advocates like Lieutenant Colonel A.J. Hanlon and General Billy Mitchell championing its necessity to build the "backbone of the Air Service." After decades of advocacy, the crucial turning point arrived with the National Security Act of 1947, which created a separate Air Force. Following a recommendation from a board led by then-Columbia University president Dwight D. Eisenhower, President Eisenhower signed the legislation establishing USAFA on April 1, 1954, with Colorado Springs chosen as its scenic, 18,500-acre home.

USAFA offers an unparalleled educational experience, culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission as a second lieutenant. Admission is highly competitive, attracting top talent committed to service, with cadets receiving full tuition, room, board, and a monthly stipend – all paid for by the Air Force. In return, cadets commit to serving eight years as commissioned officers upon entering their third year, embodying the academy's rigorous academic and military training designed to cultivate exceptional leaders ready to defend the nation's skies and beyond.