AIR FORCE GAME

A few weeks ago, we had the opportunity to attend a BYU football game in Colorado Springs on the campus of the United States Air Force Academy. The boy scout troop from our ward organized an effort to present the Wounded Warriors Foundation with letters of appreciation from people around the country. During halftime, the boy scouts presented these letters to members of the service academies on the field. As a result, a bunch of members of our ward all got together to go to the game. We tailgated beforehand and then enjoyed the game. Here is a picture of our cute, little family prior to kickoff.


My mom always told me that she really enjoyed going to games at the Academy because of how cool it is to see all the cadets. After going to the game, I would have to agree. I got emotional a few times seeing all the young men and women who serve our country. I can honestly say that the whole atmosphere of the stadium is worth attending a game here, even if you don't even like football.

This picture is of the band that leads all the cadets onto the field. Prior to the game, all the cadets march into the stadium in formation. It is quite a sight to see.


The cadets in formation covered the entire football field.


After being dismissed, the cadets rush to their seats. Following Air Force scores, the first 10 rows or so of cadets storm the field to do push-ups.


Still in the pregame, they had a group of parachuters who carried various flags and banners and landed at midfield. They did all kinds of tricks in the air prior to landing.


What would an Air Force game be without a flyover. These jets were flying in the "missing man" formation in honor of a fallen comrade.


Once the game started, this is how Lily enjoyed it. She was content to just ride around on Dad's chest the entire day.



The boy scouts making their presentation at halftime.


At the conclusion of the game, all the players for the Academy join the other cadets for the singing of the alma matter. I thought it was a good show of support and sportsmanship that the BYU players joined them to show their appreciation for all that these men and women mean to our country.

I would love to go back to the Academy and take a tour. To be honest, even if BYU would have lost, this game would have been well worth the trip. The experience of a game at Falcon Stadium is something everyone should have the opportunity to do at least once in their life. You are all welcome to join us two years from now when BYU comes back to Colorado Springs or anytime you would like prior to that.

T.J.