Air Force Academy welcomes new cadets excited for opportunity

It’s a day full of emotions as the new cadets arrive at the Air Force Academy. This year, the Academy is welcoming more than 1,100 new faces.

Bright and early, cars started to line up outside the north entrance of the Academy, as parents and families from across the country get ready to drop off their kids.

Once they arrived, the new cadets received a few words from Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen Jay Silveria and then it was time to say goodbye, hop on a bus and head to training.

And even with people screaming in their face, the new cadets were excited to start their future.

Jacob Dunn said he was excited for “the friendships I’m going to form, and all the opportunities”

While Chelsea Taylor added, “A lot of challenges and a lot of personal growth, and that’s what I’m most excited for.”

And Calvin Swafford who is also a part of the Class of 2023 said, “An amazing education, amazing opportunities all around and the perfect, it’s just a perfect setting to be here in Colorado.”

Some parents Thursday were left speechless, but they said they are extremely proud.

Darren Taylor, a parent of one of the cadets, said, “It’s going to be awesome — I’m not sad, I’m happy.”

“I’ve been very, very strong until about 30 seconds ago, so I’m good, I’m super proud, these are happy tears,” said one mom, Julie Jessen.

And although parents hate to say goodbye, they are excited about the future, as their child joins the United States Air Force.