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Watch VideoCold, wet weather doesn't dampen cadet's spirits
Story By: Mark Hanrahan
Source: KOAA
1,012 strong, the Air Force Academy’s class of 2008 marched through the fog and drizzle and into Falcon Stadium. Newly commissioned 2nd Lieutenant Kevin Crumrine says, “I can’t believe it, it’s been four years, it’s been fun.”
Despite the cool, wet weather the stands were packed with proud parents. “There’s no feeling like it,” said Steven Crumrine. He and his family flew in from Maryland to watch the graduation. He says, “To see your son salute the President of the United States you couldn’t be more proud, you couldn’t get any better.”
President Bush delivered the Academy’s 50th graduating class. He thanked the cadets for entering into the service during a time of war. During his speech, President Bush said, “I have stood and looked out at the best men and women our nation has to offer and I have stood in awe and I stand in awe again today.”
Then, after four years of grueling classes and a three hour ceremony, came those three words, “you are dismissed” followed by a low level flyover by the Air Force’s Aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds.
“Awesome, I can’t even describe it, just awesome,” Described 2nd Lieutenant Ivonne Maldonado after graduation.
Another 2nd Lieutenant, Gene Strand, described his emotions, “It’s unbelievable, four hard years of work and dedications…the Thunderbirds…words don’t express it, this is awesome.”
The graduates will now enjoy 60 days of leave before going to their Air Force Jobs; more than half will head to pilot training.
