Prep school welcomes all for Parents' Weekend Published Sept. 4, 2009 By Col. Todd Zachary U.S. Air Force Academy Prepatory School commander U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- On behalf of the United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School staff and faculty, I would like to welcome you to Colorado Springs and your United States Air Force Academy, the premier center of excellence in developing Leaders of Character in service to our nation. Your son or daughter is demonstrating outstanding commitment and determination by attending the USAFA Preparatory School. We appreciate the fact that his or her values, characteristics, and motivation are a reflection of what you have taught them. Today's global environment is exceptionally demanding filled with both challenges and opportunities for our nation. The young men and women who will lead our nation must be prepared to face this global environment with the skills and confidence needed to succeed. Our mission at the Preparatory School is to help develop and hone these skills through a challenging academic, character development, athletic and military training program focused on preparing Cadet Candidates to succeed and lead at the Academy. In turn, your son or daughter will leave the United States Air Force Academy as a leader of character ready to face any challenge in service to our nation. Please accept my sincerest thanks for sending us our nation's finest and for your continued support of the USAFA Preparatory School and the Air Force Academy. Welcome and enjoy your United States Air Force Academy.