The United States Air Force Academy Cemetery stands as a solemn and dignified testament to the Academy’s enduring commitment to those who have served with honor. Established in September 1958 — shortly after the Cadet Wing transitioned from Lowry Air Force Base in Denver to its permanent home north of Colorado Springs — the cemetery has become a revered final resting place for many of the Air Force's most distinguished leaders and heroes.

Fittingly, the first person laid to rest here was Lt. Gen. Hubert Harmon, the Academy’s founding superintendent. Since then, a remarkable roster of Air Force and Academy figures has joined him, their presence reflecting the cemetery’s stature and significance.

Among those interred here are Gen. Carl Spaatz, the first chief of staff of the Air Force, along with three others who held that esteemed position: Generals Curtis LeMay, John McConnell and John Ryan. Eight Academy superintendents rest here as well, including the first six to hold the post.

Capt. Valmore Bourque, Class of 1960 and the first Academy graduate killed in combat, is also buried on these grounds. He is joined by dozens of fellow graduates who gave their lives in defense of the United States.

One of the most inspiring figures buried here is Master Sgt. William Crawford, a Medal of Honor recipient from the U.S. Army and the first enlisted person interred in the cemetery. Once a janitor in Sijan Hall, a cadet dormitory, Crawford’s heroic story was uncovered by Cadet Jim Moschgat while reading about World War II.

Other notable individuals include:

• Lt. Col. Theodore Harris, a Korean War POW who spent 14 months in solitary confinement and authored the enduring Contrails quote: “Many of us learned as doolies, if I can't go back with my self-respect, I won't go back at all.”

• Col. Lee Black, the first commander of the Air Force Academy Preparatory School.

• Capt. Charles Bush, Class of 1963, the Academy’s first Black graduate.

• Brig. Gen. Robin Olds, triple ace pilot and legendary commandant of cadets.

Spanning 100 acres, the cemetery offers not just a place of rest, but a place of remembrance — ensuring that the legacy of these heroes, and many more to come, will be honored for generations.