Distinguished Graduate Award
The Distinguished Graduate Award recognizes exceptional graduates who have set themselves apart ...
April 23, 1966 -- Capt. Robert Blake, Class of '59, becomes the first graduate to shoot down an enemy aircraft in aerial combat. He destroys a MiG-17 while flying an F-4C north of Hanoi. April 23, 1979 -- Former President Gerald R. Ford begins a four-day visit to the Academy, during which he teaches political science classes and addresses the entire Cadet Wing in the Field House as part of the Academy's 25-year commemorative activities. The topic of his address was "The Role of the Military Officer in our Government System."
Research for this date in USAFA historical achievements was provided by Steven Simon '77. Read about other USAFA grad accomplishments.
One key mission of the Association of Graduates is to highlight some of those things that make the Academy the special place that it is. As a result, the AOG has launched a series of “Heritage Minute” videos that will be available weekly from our website, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram TV. Each episode of the “Heritage Minute” will feature a historic site or display found somewhere on the Academy campus.
The Association of Graduates uncovers, records, displays and honors the heritage, history and legacy of the U.S. Air Force Academy and its graduates.
Select a year below to learn more about the USAFA class, read Polaris yearbooks, link to class websites, and more!
The AOG facilitates the Class Ring program, from working with cadets on ring decisions to helping grads with lost class rings.
Since 1975 the United States Air Force Academy's graduating classes have been given a special painting pertaining to their graduating class year.
The Distinguished Graduate Award recognizes exceptional graduates who have set themselves apart ...
Learn more about the Policies and Procedures of the Heritage and Traditions Committee.