<p>Today’s the graduation parade–it looks cold and cloudy, with a chance of rain. That’s perfect weather for the Class of Spaatz as they “Feel the Fire” of Graduation so near. Tonight we’ll have commissioning ceremonies for all of the firsties that are graduating tomorrow and then the big march-on into Falcon Stadium.</p>
<p>I have the good fortune of being able to attend my UNdaughter’s commissioning tonight as she and the other Stalagians take their oath and receive their 2d Lt shoulder boards. I get to commission one of them that I’ve known for just a few years as well as another cadet in Viking 9.</p>
<p>Best of luck to all. May you have a safe and relaxing 60 days of leave and a great first assignment!</p>
<p>Best of luck also to the incoming class. I get to teach a doolie class next Fall (Engr 100), so some of you lucky campers may actually have me for your instructor. (Stop laughing UN, I know what you’re thinking–I’ll try to be gentle). I’ve NEVER taught fourthclassmen before, so the shock for all parties involved should be substantial.</p>
<p>A final cautionary tale for those of you coming to the Blue Zoo. We have standards here. They are, usually, enforced–sometimes in a manner that may seem severe to many of you. At least two members of the Class of '06 are not graduating tomorrow because of grave mistakes made during their last two weeks at USAFA. They won’t be joining the Long Blue Line. They’ll have a lifetime to think about their errors. I feel terribly for their families–but these folks knew the rules, took an oath, and chose to break their oath for short-term gain. This is serious business. We don’t have room for those that don’t their profession seriously.</p>
<p>Congratulations <b>UN</b>cynical!!!! You've been such a great help, and I had a blast meeting you at orientation! Keep in touch and enjoy the time before flight training next year!</p>
<p>Also looking forward to meeting docfrance!</p>
<p>Congratulations, Uncynical! You've been a fabulous resource to so many.</p>
<p>And, welcome back, docfrance! We missed you!</p>
<p>Thanks. I'm sure I'll see you tonight, DocFrance! I can't believe it's already been 4 years (although it seemed like an eternity at times). ;)</p>
<p>I'll still be around the board, at least for the time being. I'll be traveling for part of 60 Days, but much of that time you all will be <em>enjoying</em> BCT anyway.</p>
<p>Well, with less than 2 hours until commissioning and well under a day until the graduation ceremony, I'm off for now. But I shall return (sooner rather than later).</p>
<p>congrats on comissioning!</p>
<p>Congratulations! :D</p>
<p>Congratulations!!!!</p>
<p>I add my congrats and my thanks for all the help you've given us. And now, I also thank you most sincerely (and we can NEVER say this enough) for your continuing service to our country.</p>
<p>Congrats! Thanks for all the advice.</p>
<p>It's official... I did indeed graduate (somehow) and I am now a second lieutenant. It really has not sunk in yet. I also made it back home to California already (as of about 15 minutes ago). I had intended to post a message when I got back to my room from the stadium Wednesday afternoon, but I was extremely busy moving my stuff and saying bye to people.</p>
<p>Some pictures may come later...</p>
<p>UNcynical:</p>
<p>The thoughts and opinions that you have posted in this forum have been invaluable to me, as I'm sure they have been to others as well. When my son first began talking about the Air Force Academy as an option three years ago, I was largely ignorant of what USAFA entailed. Although he will obviously be making the final decision on his own future, I wanted to be able to assist him in evaluating his options. To do so, I did quite a bit of research into the Academy from a variety of sources. Ive found this forum in general, and your posts in particular, to be one of the better resources available to me.</p>
<p>As much as your posts have taught me about the Academy, they have also told me a little about you. With all the critics and cynics that are quick to voice their opinions, it has been refreshing to hear from someone who appears to enjoy their experience at USAFA. Although I have never met you, I have come to admire you for your thoughtful (and occasionally humorous) outlook on life as a cadet at the Academy.</p>
<p>Congratulations on your recent graduation, and best of luck as you begin your career as an officer in the United States Air Force! I hope that you will continue to find time to keep us updated on your new life as a 2nd Lieutenant.</p>
<p>Thanks, it's been my pleasure. ;)</p>
<p>I'm relaxing at home now. I'll be leaving in about a week to take military hops to/around Europe, but I'll be here until then.</p>