Just days before the Class of 2026 commissioned as second lieutenants into the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, Checkpoints asked then-first-degree cadets at the Association & Foundation-hosted Firstie Departure information fair what it means to enter service as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday.

Find essays sharing insights on the same topic in the June issue of Checkpoints.

Cadet Squadron 23

Major: Geospatial Science, minor in Future Conflict

I'm extremely proud and excited. America is celebrating its 250th birthday and we're the class of 2026. When I did the math freshman year, I got super-excited. It makes me proud to continue the legacy built by the forefathers and the military leaders who came before me, and to step into their shoes as part of the world's greatest fighting force.

Cadet Squadron 19

Major: Philosophy, minor in Spanish

It means honoring the same values our nation has stood for since the beginning, which are honor and service at its core. It is the highest honor to be able to commission into that service and to serve the same country that has provided me with those freedoms that I hope to help provide to others in the future.

Cadet Squadron 5

Major: Biology

I feel like it's such a full-circle moment of gratitude. My family and I immigrated to the United States from Germany in 2006, and since then this country has given us so many opportunities. My sister graduated from the United States Naval Academy and paved this path for me, so with her on active duty and me about to be on active duty myself, this is my way of giving thanks to the nation for all it has done for my family and for the opportunities it continues to provide.

Cadet Squadron 39

Major: Management

It's very special to me and my family. My uncle is a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force, so it's a family tradition for us. The 250th birthday represents a quarter of a millennium of service, and being able to join the Long Blue Line at that moment is important to me and my family. I'm excited to give back to my nation for how much it has given to me.