History of the United States Air Force Academy
The Air Force Academy was established as its own body on April 1, 1954, an idea that had been years in the making. Airpower leader Lieutenant Colonel A.J. Hanlon had the idea as early as 1918 that, “As the Military and Naval Academies are the backbone of the Army and Navy, so must be the Aeronautical Academy the backbone of the Air Service." It wasn’t long after becoming its own body that construction began on the United States Air Force Academy, it was completed on August 29, 1958.
What You Will See at the United States Air Force Academy
Today the United States Air Force Academy serves as both an Air Force installation and a university. Explore the walls of the Barry Goldwater Air Force Academy Visitor Center, the gateway to the Academy, during your two and a half hour tour of the United States Air Force Academy.
History of the Visitor Center
Funds donated by previous Arizona Senator Barry M. Goldwater and borrowed funds made the Barry Goldwater Visitor Center possible. The $4.5 million facility opened its doors in June of 1986 and remains the gateway to the United States Air Force Academy to this day.
The Barry Goldwater Air Force Academy Visitor Center
Serving as the gateway to the Academy, the Visitor Center allows you to discover the history and cadet way of life through 31,600 square feet of exhibits.
The Introductory Film
Start your tour off with a 14-minute video in the center’s 250 seat theater. This introductory film is shown throughout the day and will give you a background of the United States Air Force Academy and how it has evolved over the years.
The Exhibit Area
Displays that explore the cadet way of life can be found throughout the museum. They are specially designed to explain the Academy’s four “pillars of excellence” which are character, development and academic, athletic and military training. From video and static displays to historical displays and maps discover what the United States Air Force Academy is really all about in the exhibit area.
Other Places of Interest
After exploring the Visitor Center other self-guided tours throughout the Academy are available if time permits.
Arnold Hall
See further exhibits about the military and Academy in Arnold Hall. It is also home to a dining area and auditorium where special events are often held.
Honor Court
You can find Honor Court situated between Arnold Hall and Cadet Chapel. Here bronze statues and aircraft memorials stand in remembrance of previous airmen who served in the Air Force.
Field House
With an emphasis on athletics, the Air Force Academy provides cadets with state-of-the-art recreational facilities. The Field House contains an Indoor Athletic Field, Ice Rink, Basketball Court and Snack Bar.
Falcon Athletic Center
Next to the Field House is Falcon Athletic Center. Here athletic achievements can be admired in the Athletic Hall of Excellence. The Athletic Ticket Office can also be found in the Falcon Athletic Center.
Noon Meal Formation
Observe from Honor Court or the wall surrounding Cadet Chapel as the cadet wing marches to lunch. While meal formations are scheduled from Monday until Friday at noon during the academic year, it is important to note they are subject to change without notice.