A longtime Air Force Academy tradition that ended in the wake of the sexual-assault scandal three years ago is being reinstated this spring for the class of 2009.
Recognition, a right of passage that marks the transition of freshmen cadets to upper classes, begins Thursday.
“We’re bringing back a tradition,” said Johnny Whitaker, spokesman for the academy. “It has been professionally designed and, if they follow the plan, will be professionally executed. It will involve all of the classes.”
Recognition was halted in 2003. Air Force officials believed hazing that sometimes accompanied Recognition – and the emphasis on making life miserable for freshmen – could result in an abuse of power by upperclassmen.
“The people at the time didn’t feel it was as professionally planned and conducted as it should have been,” Whitaker said. “It was still tied to a focus on the fourth classmen, making life tough on them. It was a little bit out of control.”
This year’s Recognition events include leadership and assault-awareness courses and events that measure military knowledge and physical fitness. There will be mandatory meal formations, a motivational speaker, and a “Run to the Rock.”
On Saturday, at a dinner celebrating the end of Recognition, freshmen will receive “prop and wings” insignia symbolizing full status in the 4,300-student cadet wing.
Lt. Gen. John Regni, academy superintendent, plans a news conference at 2 p.m. today to discuss why the academy has reinstated the tradition, which is designed to instill pride in freshmen and test the leadership skills of older students.
The Association of Graduates applauded the return of Recognition.
“We think it’s great,” said Dick Rauschkolb, vice president of communications for the association. “It’s an important tradition in the history of the academy. The alumni thought it was an important tradition, and they expressed their feelings that it was an important tradition.”
In the wake of the scandal, the academy moved to make the four-year institution more in line with the operational Air Force. In the process, traditions like Recognition and a “Bring Me Men” sign that hung over a ramp welcoming cadets were removed.
Erin Emery can be reached at 719-522-1360 or eemery@denverpost.com.
