WATCH: 2023 Air Force Academy Graduation
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The 2023 Air Force Academy Graduation happened Thursday, June 1, 2023.
The ceremony began right on time. The Academy Graduation frequently features high-profile speakers. This year, the commencement speaker was the Commander in Chief himself, President Joe Biden.
After making a few jokes about the Air Force Academy being superior to Annapolis and West Point, President Biden focused on several world challenges.
President Biden acknowledged that graduating from the Air Force Academy is a remarkable accomplishment. And one that has prepared the cadets for the modern world - one that will clearly need their leadership and resilience.
“Class of 2023, you’ve been trained to lead,” exclaimed Biden.
“Your airmen and guardians are going to look to you for guidance and inspiration because the world is going to get more confusing,” he said.
Over 900 cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants today. Biden noted this class will be part of a historic shift, expected to lead the world by example. And That this year’s historically large minority class is part of our strength in pursuing that world guidance.
“All men and women are created equal. Endowed with certain inalienable rights. Life, liberty, the pursuit of [happiness]… that’s the organizing principle of America,” he said to a cheering crowd at Falcon Stadium.
Biden also spoke about how the global pandemic and recent world conflict have only prepared this year’s class to be confident to tackle any challenge.
“No matter what changes or challenges come, your character, your moral clarity, your capabilities, must never waiver….the nation needs you,” said Biden.
Biden did not make any mention regarding the future location of space command, a hot topic of conversation recently and a decision that both sides of the aisle in Colorado hope is reversed.
"I give you my word as a Biden, I have never been more optimistic. Never been more optimistic about the future of this country and no small part because of you. I mean it sincerely."
Biden did have a little fall at the end of the ceremony. But he appeared okay and was able to walk back to his seat and continue the ceremony on his own accord.
Rewatch the full 2023 Air Force Academy Graduation above.
