We have driven through Colorado Springs more times than I can remember, and have visited many interesting places here, but this was our first time to visit the Air Force Academy. It is impressive!
The guard at the gate checked all of our driver's licenses plus the back of our truck. Guess we passed the test, and we were allowed to drive to the visitor center.
The first class from the academy graduated in 1959. The video that we watched after first entering the building showed the year in a life of a cadet, stressing integrity above all. Sadly, recent news revealed that criminal charges have been filed (a precedent) against two seniors relating to hazing and freshmen cadets. Until now, infractions have been handled within the academy itself. Sad times for everyone involved.
The Cadet Chapel was located a third mile from the visitor center, and we walked the path just in time to get there to watch thousands of cadets lining up for lunch. Recent incoming classes have averaged around 1200, with 1000 graduating each year.
On the other side, there were just as many cadets standing at attention. I would have loved to see that cafeteria! It must be huge to serve everyone at essentially at the same time.
While they were eating lunch, we toured the Cadet Chapel. On the main floor is the Protestant chapel, directly underneath that is the Catholic chapel, and towards the back and down the stairs is the Jewish chapel and and very small room for the Buddhist worshipers.
These are views of the Protestant Chapel. Absolutely beautiful!
During our walk around this chapel, we were treated to music from the absolutely huge pipe organ in the back. Reminded me to go back to Organ Stop Pizza when we get home!
The altar for the Catholic chapel was gorgeous!
Below is where services are held for the Jewish cadets.
And this is what the Buddhist worship center looks like.
One of the views of the airplane tail structure. The plaza was huge and basically empty as we ambled around. I imagine it would be packed for special events and graduation.
Looks like Don and Patty are ahead of me. Guess I dawdled too long taking pictures! Don has become accustomed to me stopping to take a photo if it is halfway interesting. He just continues on (just like when we are shopping). Eventually, he either finds me or I catch up to him.
Good news! This time we had taken a map of the campus along with us and it wasn't hard finding our way back to the truck. We may be slow at times, but at least we still learn from our mistakes! LOL
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