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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman August Pfluger TX-11, Chairman of the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, today announced the appointment of Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) to the Board.

"I am proud to welcome Senator Rounds to the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors," said Chairman Pfluger. "As a dedicated advocate for our service members, Senator Rounds brings the judgment and experience this Board needs as we work to ensure the Academy is developing the next generation of Air and Space Force leaders. I look forward to working alongside him to carry out our mission."

Senator Mike Rounds echoed the importance of the role:

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on the United States Air Force Academy’s Board of Visitors,” said Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD). “One of the most rewarding parts of my work in the Senate is nominating young South Dakotans to attend our military service academies. The students selected to attend the Air Force Academy are some of our nation’s best and brightest, and we must continue to provide them with a quality educational experience that prepares them to defend our country. I look forward to working with my Congressional colleagues, the Department of the Air Force and the cadets to make certain the U.S. Air Force Academy is fully resourced and positioned to prepare future generations to serve our country.”  

Background:

Established by law in 1956, the U.S. Air Force Academy Board provides independent advice and recommendations on matters relating to the Academy, including morale, discipline, social climate, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and any other matters relating to the Academy that the Board decides to consider.

Under Chairman Pfluger's leadership, the Board has taken a clear-eyed, mission-focused approach to carrying out its advisory role. The members have worked diligently to ensure the Academy remains a merit-based institution that continues to develop the world’s finest officers who are prepared to lead and defend our nation in both the Air Force and Space Force.

As part of the President's directive to restore America’s Fighting Force, the Board has continued its comprehensive review of the U.S. Air Force Academy's academic curriculum, military training philosophy, and athletic programs.

With the addition of Senator Mike Rounds, the Board of Visitors is moving full throttle to ensure the U.S. Air Force Academy remains the gold standard for officer development.