USAFA Graduation

The iconic hat toss from a different angle

The most memorable and happiest time of a cadet's career, graduation is the step into the real Air Force. Earlier today, 1073 Firsties received their diplomas and a handshake from President Obama and officially commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants.

President Obama accepts the class gift; a painting of Air Force One and
an Academy athletic jacket

Graduation is the accumulation of four years of endless work and sacrifice. It represents the transition from a lowly cadet to an officer in the world's finest air force. Over 12,000 young men and women apply for acceptance each year and only a select few receive the opportunity to attend.

Each graduate receives a Bachelor of Science degree in a specific area of study. It certainly is quite an accomplishment that every cadet and family member should be proud of.

The weather started out beautiful in the morning. Warm temperatures and a slight breeze made for a comfortable graduation ceremony. As the day progressed, however, clouds moved in and it became a bit chilly in the upper levels. Thankfully the rain held off until after the Thunderbirds' show.

The family of Michael Paranka cheers as he receives his diploma

The commencement speakers rotate on a four year schedule. This year's speaker was the Honorable Barack Obama. Security was tight and limited movement but he was an excellent speaker and it was really cool to see the Commander in Chief interact with his new officers.

President Obama spoke for about 15 minutes and gave some inspiring words to the young officers. A transcript of the speech can be found here.

After his speech, Brigadier General Dana Born, Dean of Faculty, spoke a few words about the distinguished graduates. Distinguished graduates are the top 10% of the graduating class. Among them are those who finished at the top of their class academically, militarily, and athletically.

The entire ceremony lasts for a couple of hours and is concluded by an aerial demonstration from the Air Force's premiere demonstration team, the Thunderbirds. Photos are after the jump.

This will probably be my last post until Basic Training begins. I have the privilege of photographing second BCT and will be providing updates and photos throughout. Depending on whether anything cool happens while I am in Alaska for Ops, there may be a post or two beforehand.

The Air Force Thunderbirds in a four man formation

The Thunderbirds perform the "Calypso Pass"

The two single Thunderbirds cross each other in a daring move