Class of 2008 arrives at academy

  • Published
  • By Eddie Kovsky
  • U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (AFPN) --  More than 1,300 cadet appointees said goodbye to their families July 1 and entered the academy to begin their careers in the Air Force.

Inprocessing was a long one-day event filled with medical and dental evaluations, haircuts, clothing and equipment issue, and squadron and dormitory room assignments.

The day marked the beginning of Basic Cadet Training which runs through Aug. 7. During the first 22 days, most of the training is conducted within the cadet area. The new cadets then march to Jacks Valley on July 23 for 14 days of field training.

The Class of 2008 has the largest number of females, and the highest percentage of minorities, in academy history. The new class has about 1,085 men and 250 women, including 270 of minority descent.

“We’re excited because this is the most diverse class that we have had in our 50-year history,” said Lt. Gen. John Rosa, academy superintendent. “They will have to perform while they are here, the standards are tough, and we are looking forward to bringing them on as a part of our team.”

“This class showed a lot of interest in the academy,” said Col. William Carpenter, director of admissions. “They all are highly qualified in academics, extracurricular activities, character and athletics. Their credentials show great potential. The level of their training is going to be much more professional than previous years.”

Some families were stoically proud as they said farewell; while for others, the occasion opened a floodgate of emotions.

Christopher and Joanne Weger were tearful after saying goodbye to their son, Jeffrey.

“We’re very proud,” Mr. Weger said of his son.

“He’s never been away from us. It’s what he wants to do though, so we’ll stand behind him,” said his mother.

The anticipation of arriving at the academy is a thrilling prospect for the people who have been accepted.

“I wanted to go to a school that wouldn’t give me the typical college experience,” said Kasey Wilson, from Cincinnati. “I wanted a place that would challenge me. The academy’s mission, ‘integrity first,’ appealed to the lifestyle that I wanted to lead my life by.”

Several international students joined the Class of 2008. They represent 14 countries including Colombia, Jamaica, Jordan, South Korea, Pakistan, Peru, Taiwan, Thailand and Tunisia.

This year, 12,430 people applied for admission. The incoming class has a SAT verbal average score of 647.36, and a math average score of 668.46. (Tamara Wright of the U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs contributed to this story)