![]() ![]() ![]() Just considering Academy media, the list was seen by approximately 10,000 web visitors each week at thousands of readers every week in the Academy Spirit, and by more than 200,000 Academy Facebook friends. Throughout the year, Academy and Academy-related media outlets, as well as the Air Force Times and local newspapers, covered all that information and more in "This Day in Air Force Academy History" features. In fact, the Academy's pre-history is every bit as long and interesting as its history. They faced daunting challenges in turning the idea of an air academy into reality. While the Academy officially began in 1954, that milestone is preceded by decades of work by visionary and persistent military leaders, such as Generals Billy Mitchell, Hoyt Vandenberg, Hubert Harmon and Hap Arnold, as well as forward-thinking members of Congress and civic leaders. The Academy led - and continues to lead - the way in terms of gender equity, diversity, religious inclusion and character education. Speaking of character, we developed the core values - integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do - so profound they were adopted service wide. Our athletic teams won championships while helping cadet athletes develop character. Graduates fought and died in Southeast Asia and other conflicts. We were the first academy to award academic majors, a practice adopted by the other service academies. The Academy's stellar academic program became the first and only one ever granted accreditation before a single class graduated. Facility growth continues to this day, with the distinctive Center for Character and Leadership Development tower rising from the Honor Court. The permanent Colorado Springs site was selected and the Academy facilities were built and expanded. The Academy opened its doors in July 1955 at a temporary location on Lowry Air Force Base in Denver. Eisenhower signed legislation establishing the Academy on April 1, 1954, much has happened. In the six decades since President Dwight D. At year's end, the online "This Day in Air Force Academy History" listing contains more than 1,700 items and continues to grow - and what a story it tells. To commemorate the historic milestone and highlight the legacy of achievement of our predecessors, I have researched historical documents and identified dates and events that tell the story of the Academy. ![]() Our yearlong celebration of the Air Force Academy's 60th anniversary in 2014 provided a valuable opportunity to correct this shortcoming. ![]()
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