Vice President JD Vance delivered the commencement address at the U.S. Air Force Academy’s graduation ceremony on Thursday (May 28) in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Over 900 former cadets graduated, officially becoming officers in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. During his speech, Vance congratulated the class of 2026 and emphasized the significant responsibility they now hold. He remarked that they should feel proud but also “sobered by the extraordinary responsibility our nation now entrusts you.”
The ceremony, held at Falcon Stadium, marked the Academy’s 68th commencement. The event was open to ticket-holding members of the public, with tickets distributed through local chambers of commerce and partner organizations. The Air Force Thunderbirds performed a flyover at the conclusion of the ceremony, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Vice President Vance, who was sworn into office on January 20, 2025, previously served as a U.S. Senator from Ohio and is a Marine Corps veteran. His speech highlighted the evolving nature of warfare and the critical role the graduates will play in it. “You are graduating at a time of a new era of warfare,” Vance told the new officers.
The commencement was part of a series of events during graduation week, which ran from May 24 to May 28. These events included the Graduation Parade, Space Force Patching Ceremony, and various awards ceremonies. The full schedule and additional details were available on the Academy’s official website.
KOAA News reported that heightened security measures were in place due to the presence of Vice President Vance. The ceremony was also livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.
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