2008-2009 Catalog - United States Air Force Academy

why is the falcon the academy mascot?
The falcon possesses characteristics, that typify the U.S. Air Force: speed, graceful flight, courage, alertness, and noble carriage.
Several prairie falcons, which are native to Colorado, and one white gyrfalcon are housed at the Academy. Cadet falconers
who teach them to perform demonstrations during half-time activities at football games train the falcons. The Academy’s
intercollegiate athletic teams are known as “The Falcons.”
will i be able to travel into town or abroad?
The Academy refers to passes as permission for cadets to leave the Academy during off-duty periods. Your individual passes
on Friday evening and Saturday will depend on your class and on your overall squadron performance. As a basic cadet, you’ll
not be permitted to have visitors except for a scheduled cadet function. You’ll also be permitted to dine out in the homes of
Academy personnel on certain occasions and to attend home athletic events and other scheduled activities of the cadet wing.
Authorizations and liberties are gradually increased by class in recognition of added maturity and responsibility.
what leave periods do cadets have?
Cadets have a leave period over Thanksgiving, two-and-a-half weeks for winter break, and one week in the spring semester.
During the summer cadets take required leadership programs, which are held at the Academy or other installations. Either
before or after a leadership program, most cadets in the upper three classes have approximately three weeks of leave. There
are exceptions for cadets who volunteer or who are required to attend summer school; in these cases leave periods must be
forfeited.
are cadets permitted to wear civilian clothes away from the academy?
Fourth-class cadets may wear civilian clothes during leave periods, such as Thanksgiving and winter break, and when authorized
by the Commandant of Cadets. This authorization usually occurs during the spring semester. Cadets who are representing the
Academy on special programs, such as speaking appearances in their hometowns, must wear their uniforms.
where do cadets go on weekends?
Colorado Springs is the nearest city, approximately eight miles south, and has a population of more than 300,000. Denver,
fifty-five miles to the north, has over one million population. Both cities are located in the heart of the Rocky Mountain tourist
area, known as “Ski Country, USA.” Because of their tourist attractions, these cities have many advantages and recreational
facilities including a variety of restaurants, museums, theaters, nightclubs, shopping centers, athletic facilities and sporting
events. Colorado Springs is an important training site for athletes who practice yearly for the Olympics. Denver is the primary
access city leading to many mountain resorts, ski areas, and scenic drives. The cities of Boulder and Fort Collins also offer
many cadets the opportunity to “get away from it all.” Many cadets go to ski resorts for a day or weekend of skiing and fun. The
Cadet Ski Club provides free transportation and inexpensive ski equipment for these outings. River rafting, mountain climbing
and horseback riding are some of the other popular recreational activities available in the area. After BCT Air Force families,
participating in the sponsor program, host one or more cadets for periods of relaxation—an opportunity to enjoy a home-cooked
meal and telephone your parents.
what type of recreation is available to cadets?
The Academy provides opportunities for you to enjoy a change of pace through participation in cadet activities and social
functions. This participation comes as a welcome break from the military activities, academic requirements, and athletic
participation of the busy school week. You’ll find the Arnold Hall social center a relaxing place to enjoy dancing, games, movies,
entertainers, and television. The snack bar in the Richter Lounge is popular with cadets. The cadet-wing social committees
arrange coed dances, both formal and informal.
182 United States Air Force Academy Catalog