President Ronald Reagan raised his hand in a crisp salute to the graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy on May 30, 1984. Looking out at the sea of determined young cadets, he spoke of duty, courage, and what he called the “spirit of adventure” that defined American service. He reminded them that they were entrusted by the American people to keep the peace and safeguard freedom. As caps soared into the Colorado sky, the celebration carried an unspoken promise that these new officers would guard the nation with honor, integrity, and unwavering resolve.
