‘Your Future Awaits You’ 

Class of 2025 completes Basic Cadet Training, joins Cadet Wing

In front of an appreciative and supportive crowd of family, friends and permanent party, the USAFA Class of 2025 was accepted into the Cadet Wing this morning (Friday, Aug. 6) and will officially begin its educational and military journey.

The day’s ceremony included the presentation of Distinguished Graduate medals to nine accomplished Academy graduates; the presentation of the first Legacy Saber by the Class of 1970; the presentation of Contrails to the top basic cadets by the Class of 1975; and a change of command within the Cadet Wing.

Then, the basic cadets joined their various squadrons as full members of the wing, placing shoulder board on their uniforms to signify the completion of Basic Cadet Training.

A member of the Class of 2025’s Legacy Class — the Class of 1975 — offered words of encouragement to the newest members of the USAFA family.

Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Duane Lodrige ’75 suggested the new Doolies take advantage of every opportunity afforded to them at the Academy and in the Air Force.

“Over the past 50 years, many things have changed here,” Lodrige said. “What was the new dorm is now Sijan Hall. You’re issued a laptop instead of a slide rule. The warbirds are still on the Terrazzo, but now they’re chained down, so they don’t end up at the North Gate. And the Air Gardens once again have water. An all-male Academy with a “Bring Me Men” sign at the base of the ramp is now much more inclusive and representative of our national diversity.

“What hasn’t changed are the opportunities available to your class. Aim high in everything you do. Always strive for excellence in all endeavors no matter how mundane or unreasonable they might seem.”

He implored the cadets to always look out for each other and work toward mission success as a team.

“No matter how gifted you are, there will be times you’re overwhelmed,” Lodrige said. “But there’s never a time here that you should feel alone. Remember that, even when an upperclass cadet is screaming at you, they are invested in helping you succeed.”

On behalf of his class, Lodrige welcomed the Class of 2025 to the Long Blue Line.

“Your future awaits you,” he said.

Following the ceremony, family and friends in attendance were able to spend a brief time with the newly accepted cadets.