Embry-Riddle Celebrates Air Force Cadets at Junior ROTC Graduation Ceremony

For the fifth consecutive year, the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) Flight Academy concluded its eight-week intensive aviation training program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. The program culminated with a graduation ceremony on July 26 to recognize the cadets’ accomplishments in completing ground school, their first solo flights and earning their private pilot certificates.

“I would like to congratulate you all,” said Parker Northrup, Embry-Riddle Flight Department chair. “When you get a moment, look at the signatures on your certificate. You have received the best flight training in the United States. When I sign your certificate, I say you have achieved that standard. You are now and are forever an Embry-Riddle Eagle.”

The Air Force JROTC Flight Academy encourages high school youth to pursue careers in aviation, specifically with the United States Air Force. The program’s rigorous curriculum, combined with the expertise of Embry-Riddle’s experienced instructors, equips cadets with the knowledge and background necessary to excel in the continuation of their training as future pilots for the United States Armed Forces.

In addition to congratulating the 15 cadets, the ceremony also included awarding cadet Ainsley Frye, from Woodlands, Texas, with the Air Force JROTC Flight Academy Aviation Leadership Award. The honor recognizes one cadet’s exemplary attitude during the program, aptitude for learning and desire to make the most of the opportunity to train at the nation’s largest and most recognized aeronautical universities.

Dr. Kenneth Witcher, Embry-Riddle Prescott Campus chancellor and guest speaker during the graduation luncheon, asked the graduating cadets to maintain their attitude and aptitude to be ready when the opportunity arises.

“When do you want to fly? As soon as possible, right? If that doesn’t happen, don’t worry. You will have the opportunity,” said Witcher. “Keep the attitude, stay up on your aptitude and the opportunity will come to you. If you do that, I promise you, you will have success.”

Dr. Witcher also echoed the Air Force’s three core values.

“Integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. Do you think those only apply to the Air Force? No,” Witcher added. “If you possess those core values, opportunities will come your way.”

Embry-Riddle’s partnership with the Air Force JROTC Flight Academy helps to address the nation's critical pilot shortage. Programs like the Air Force Academy are essential to train the next generation of aviation professionals and meet the annual need for over 6,000 civilian pilots and military aviators.

“It’s our honor to be here,” said Bruce Kenney, director of the flight academy, referring to the program’s installation at Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus. “This is a great opportunity for our cadets, who are the best of the best in our nation.”

Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus offers both Air Force and Army ROTC programs, offering students the opportunity to develop skills for success in the military. Embry-Riddle’s AFROTC Detachment 028 aims to be the nation’s top AFROTC Detachment by exhibiting an organizational culture that radiates pride, teamwork and professionalism. To learn more about Embry-Riddle’s AFROTC program, visit their website.

Posted In: Aviation | Institutional News