Nearly 200 cadets graduate from U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School

Approximately 200 cadet candidates graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School Tuesday.

It’s been nearly a year of rigorous work.

“We’ve been through a lot this year. It’s good to finally have it accomplished and finish at a very prestigious place,” said Sidney Tomes, graduate.

Sidney Tomes was recruited to the Air Force Academy to play basketball.

“I’m a basketball recruit and I looked more into it and saw how good of an opportunity it could be in my life. I wanted to give it a shot,” said Tomes.

Tomes comes from a strong military background.

“My dad was career Army and my husband’s father was career Army as well. So, we’re kinda familiar with the military lifestyle,” said Michelle Tomes, mother.

Preparatory school is designed to transition the cadets from a high school academic environment to military.

“We’ve been trained to learn discipline, very hard academics, military and how to march,” said Tomes.

Now a year later, Tomes and 195 other cadets are taking the next step.

“I get to go to the Air Force Academy after a year of prep school, so all the hard work has paid off,” said Luke Nimmo.

Family members and friends filled Arnold Hall Theater for the graduation.

“It’s a very special day. I know it was a challenging year, but a lot of rewards,” said Michelle Tomes.

“I’m feeling great. Me and all my friends we’re all really excited to graduate,” said Tomes.

Each year, approximately 15 percent of those entering the Air Force Academy are preparatory school graduates.