U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy will celebrate its Class of '16 graduation with a parade and performance by the Thunderbirds, the Air Force’s official aerial demonstration team.
The Thunderbirds cap-off cadet graduation with a 30-minute demonstration June 2 above Falcon Stadium. The performance is scheduled to begin about 12:45 p.m., when nearly 1,000 newly-minted second lieutenants toss their caps in the air.
The Class of ‘16 graduation parade is scheduled to start 8:30 a.m., June 1, at Stillman Parade Field, with aerial, falconry and drill performances. The parade serves as a change of command ceremony for the Class of ‘16 to turn over command of the cadet wing to the Class of ‘17. The parade is free and open to the public.
The Thunderbirds have scheduled two practice flights above Falcon Stadium: 2:30-3:30 p.m., May 30, and 11 a.m.-noon, May 31. Practice could be cancelled due to bad weather.
Some roads around the stadium will close during the Thunderbirds practice and the June 2 performance due to Federal Aviation Administration safety guidelines. Drivers on Interstate 25 should not slow or stop to watch the demonstration.
Visitors can enter the base through the North Gate, at Exit 156 off I-25, and should arrive early due to the large number of expected visitors. Drivers should prepare to show a valid driver’s license, insurance and proof of vehicle registration. All vehicles may be inspected.
Parade parking is at the Cadet Field House parking lot. Shuttle buses will take visitors to the parade field and handicapped shuttles are available throughout the cadet area.
Cameras, video cameras and binoculars are permitted at the parade, but these items may be inspected by security forces personnel. Visitors should not bring large bags and backpacks to the parade but they may bring water. The parade is subject to cancellation in the event of severe weather.
Graduation parking
The north, south and Falcon Stadium gates open at 7 a.m., June 2. Graduation tickets are required for entry to the stadium. Ticket-holders should arrive by 8:30 a.m. due to increased security and heavy traffic. Guests cannot leave the stadium once the ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m. but they will be allowed to leave after the Thunderbirds’ performance.
Due to security restrictions, Falcon Stadium guests pass through metal detectors, and may have their personal items searched.
Visitor parking is in Falcon Stadium parking lots 1, 2 and 5. Handicapped parking is available in Lot 5 of Falcon Stadium via the North Gate. Another handicapped parking area is available in Lot 1 via the South Gate. Visitors can use their state handicapped placards to enter these lots. Visitors without handicapped placards, but with one or more guests who may require transportation assistance, can request to park in the handicapped area from the lot attendant.
Falcon Stadium does not have elevators. Handicapped seating is limited to a first-come, first-served basis.
Boxes; alcohol; weapons; firecrackers; beverage containers; backpacks, large handbags, coolers, thermoses or similar items are not allowed in the stadium. Drinks are not allowed, with the exception of clear, unopened water bottles. Food is allowed but must be carried in a transparent one-gallon Zip lock bag.
Cameras and video cameras are permitted but may be inspected at the stadium gates. Diaper bags and strollers will be allowed if a child is present.
Refreshments are available from vendors throughout the stadium.
Visit www.usafa.edu/superintendent/graduation/data/falcon_stadium_policy.pdf or www.usafa.edu/superintendent/graduation for more information.