From the First Class to the Front Door

Celebratory Opening in May 2026

The United States Air Force Academy

General Bradley and Zita Hosmer Welcome Center

The Class of 1959 holds a unique place in the history of the Long Blue Line. As the Academy’s inaugural class, they did more than just graduate; they shouldered the responsibility of defining the traditions, standards, and spirit of a new American institution. In May 2026, this foundational legacy will be honored with the formal dedication of the General Bradley and Zita Hosmer Welcome Center.

First Class: USAFA Class of 1959

Serving as the new "front door" to the Academy, the 32,000-square-foot Hosmer Welcome Center will greet an anticipated one million annual visitors. Its walls tell a story that began in 1955 with a group of young men who accepted the challenge of being the "First Class."

These pioneers did not just follow a path—they cleared it. They were the first to live by the Cadet Honor Code, the first to select the Falcon as the mascot, and the first to lead the Cadet Wing. From their final miles marched from Lowry Air Force Base to the permanent site in 1958, to fielding an undefeated football team and achieving national accreditation, their focus was always on the future of the Air Force. Their successes paved the way for those who followed: the first graduates to fly in space, lead the Thunderbirds, and reach the rank of four-star general. The "Forever First" spirit was never about being at the front of the line, but about ensuring the line was strong enough for all who would follow.

This new facility stands as a testament to the leadership and vision of our very own Brad Hosmer, whose pioneering role remains one of its most consequential distinctions.

General Bradley C. Hosmer as a Class of 1959 Cadet

First of the "First Class"

Brad Hosmer’s journey from the first graduating class to the naming of this visitor center is a story of many "firsts" that define the Class of '59:

• Forever First: As the Academy’s first graduate, he was the very first cadet to officially receive his degree at the Class of 1959 commencement.

• The First Graduate Superintendent: From 1991 to 1994, Brad returned to lead his alma mater, becoming the first Academy graduate to serve as Superintendent.

• The First Rhodes Scholar: He set the academic bar for all future cadets as the first graduate to receive this prestigious honor.

• A Distinguished Graduate: Recognized in 2003 for his lifelong service, his career spanned from flying combat missions as a Forward Air Controller in Vietnam to serving as the Vice Director of the Joint Staff.

In His Own Words

Brad has always viewed the Academy not just as a school, but as a crucible for character. His words reflect the deep responsibility he felt toward the institution and the Class of '59:

On the evolution of leadership and character, he noted:

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The Hosmer Visitor Center will celebrate what it takes to

forge—and become—a leader of character.

The Dedication Event

In May 2026 will be the official dedication event of the Hosmer Welcome Center that will welcome over one million visitors annually. It is designed to inspire the next generation of leaders by telling the story of the Long Blue Line.

DESIGN FEATURES

The Hosmer Welcome Center is designed to be far more than a standard visitor information hub; it is an architectural and experiential tribute to the "Long Blue Line." For the Class of 1959, the space holds special significance as it literally and figuratively honors legacy.

Here are the remarkable design features and details on how the space will be used (Photo Credits: USAFA):

1. Iconic "Wings in Flight" Architecture

• Symbolic Silhouette: Designed by the world-renowned Fentress Architects (the same firm behind Denver International Airport), the building’s sweeping, tiered roof is inspired by the Air Force Thunderbirds and the Lockheed F-117A Nighthawk. The aluminum-skinned "wings" are designed to look like an aircraft taking off.

• The Grand Atrium: The center’s heart is an 80-to-108-foot-tall south-facing glass atrium. This space provides panoramic views of the Academy’s campus and the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.

• The Suspended Glider: Hanging within the atrium is a Sabre 1 (TG-10C glider), frozen in the middle of an aerobatic loop. It will be illuminated at night, making it visible to travelers passing by on Interstate 25.

The Hosmer Visitors Welcome Center Hanging Glider Located in the Atrium (Photo Credit: USAFA)

2. The Seven-Gallery Experience

The interior is divided into seven themed galleries that use state-of-the-art technology to tell the Academy story:

• The Cadet Journey: Visitors follow a chronological path of the "47-month journey," from the first day of Basic Cadet Training (BCT) to graduation.

• Interactive Core Values: One gallery features a mirrored "reflection wall" where visitors can see themselves while listening to the core values of the Air Force and Space Force.

• The Polaris Star: A centerpiece interactive display called the "Polaris Star" allows guests to explore various career paths within the Air Force and Space Force, illustrating the global impact of Academy graduates.

• Class Legacy: High-tech exhibits highlighting class crests and the histories of the "Long Blue Line," including a special focus on the Class of 1959.

3. Remarkable Features & Amenities

• The Flight Simulators: A pedestrian bridge connects the center to Hotel Polaris, which houses three professional-grade flight simulators (one 737 and two F-16s). These are the only in-hotel simulators in North America, allowing families and visitors to experience the "feel" of flight.

• Official Colorado Welcome Center: As an official state welcome center, it will be the "front door" for over one million visitors annually, giving Gen. Hosmer’s name and the Class of '59 incredible national exposure.

• Theatre & Multimedia: A theater within the center will show high-definition films about the Academy experience, designed to inspire the next generation of potential cadets.

• Retail Space: A 3,000-square-foot gift shop and team store will offer exclusive Academy and "Class of" memorabilia.

4. Community & Legacy Use

• Bridging the Gap: The center is located outside the North Gate, making it accessible to the public without the need for base security clearance. This allows it to serve as a bridge between the civilian community and the Academy.

• The Pedestrian Bridge: The "Falcon Bridge" connects the center to the TrueNorth Commons development, creating a unified campus for alumni reunions, parents' weekends, and graduation celebrations.

For the Class of 1959, this center is a permanent tribute to their foundational role. By naming the center after Brad and Zita Hosmer, the Academy ensures that the story of the pioneering class serves as the first chapter of inspiration for every visitor who walks through these doors.