COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. —
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. — On November 12, 2024, an inspiring ceremony took place at the Columbus Air Force Base Event Center, where nine dedicated Airmen from the 14th Flying Training Wing proudly received their Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) degrees.
The long-awaited CCAF graduation ceremony marked the first occasion in five years that such an event was held on base, a welcome return after the disruptions caused by the pandemic and subsequent program restructures. To ensure that family and friends could partake in the celebration despite potential travel limitations, the event was also livestreamed online, bringing a sense of community to those unable to attend in person.
“It’s important to have these graduations come back,” remarked Michael D. Schendel, chief of education and training for the 14th Force Support Squadron. He emphasized that the revival of the CCAF graduation ceremonies signifies a critical step towards normalcy, noting, “This year, we are starting to see the school offer these graduations again, and it’s a big deal that we are getting back up to speed and doing these regularly.”
As the only federally chartered institution dedicated to granting Associate of Applied Science degrees specifically for Air Force service members, the CCAF plays a vital role in bridging military training with academic achievement. This unique program artfully blends technical skills acquired during military service with essential general education courses, equipping graduates with competencies that align with both military operations and civilian careers.
Acknowledging the evolving landscape of global military dynamics, service members are actively encouraged to pursue further educational development to prepare for the future of Great Power Competition. To bolster this commitment to continuous learning, the Air Force offers a wealth of educational opportunities; each service member is authorized up to $4,500 annually in tuition assistance, as well as access to additional programs like Air Force credentialing online, which enables Airmen to acquire professional certifications at no cost.
“You are not just graduates; you are leaders and changemakers,” Ms. Nora Miller, president of Mississippi University for Women and guest speaker at the CCAF graduation, passionately conveyed to the graduates. She urged them to carry forward the esteemed values of integrity, service, and excellence that are emblematic of the U.S. Air Force, encouraging them to pursue their passions and leave a positive impact on the world.
CCAF Graduates
Tech. Sgt. Anthony Watson – 14th Comptroller Squadron – Associates of Science in Financial Management
Tech. Sgt. Johnathan Williams – 14th Force Support Squadron – Associates of Science in Human Resource Management
Tech. Sgt. James Biven – 14th Security Forces Squadron – Associates of Science in Criminal Justice
Staff Sgt. Dan Raven – 14th Operations Support Squadron – Associates of Science in Electronic Systems Technology
Staff Sgt. Caleb Smith – Wing Staff Agencies – Associates of Science in Transportation
Senior Airman Alexander Garnica – 14th Communications Squadron – Associates of Science in Information Systems Technology
Senior Airman Serena Horn – 14th Comptroller Squadron – Associates of Science in Information Management
Senior Airman Savannah Howe – 14th Civil Engineer Squadron – Associates of Science in Emergency Management
Airman 1st Class Ian Schindler – 14th Operations Support Squadron – Associates of Science in Meteorology
What role did the pandemic play in the suspension of the CCAF graduation ceremony, and how did its resumption on November 12, 2024, impact the community?
**Interview with Michael D. Schendel, Chief of Education and Training for the 14th Force Support Squadron**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Michael. Can you tell us about the significance of the CCAF graduation ceremony held on November 12, 2024, at Columbus Air Force Base?
**Michael D. Schendel:** Thank you for having me. The CCAF graduation ceremony was truly a momentous occasion. It marked the first time we’ve been able to host such an event in five years, due to the disruptions from the pandemic and program restructures. For many of the graduates, it represented not only the culmination of their hard work but also a return to normalcy for our community.
**Editor:** Why is the CCAF program so important for Airmen?
**Schendel:** The Community College of the Air Force is unique in that it is the only federally chartered institution dedicated specifically to granting Associate of Applied Science degrees for Air Force service members. It plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between military training and academic achievement, helping our Airmen acquire technical skills alongside essential general education. This not only enhances their capabilities within the military but also prepares them for successful civilian careers.
**Editor:** You mentioned the evolving landscape of global military dynamics. How does the Air Force support continuous education for its members?
**Schendel:** Absolutely. In today’s world, ongoing education is vital for our service members. The Air Force actively encourages this development by offering various educational opportunities. Each member is eligible for up to $4,500 per year in tuition assistance, which can be used for a range of programs. Additionally, we provide access to Air Force credentialing online, allowing Airmen to obtain professional certifications at no cost, ensuring they have the skills needed for the future.
**Editor:** During the ceremony, Ms. Nora Miller spoke about the graduates being leaders and changemakers. How do you feel these graduates will embody those values moving forward?
**Schendel:** Ms. Miller’s words resonated deeply with everyone present. The Airmen who graduated are more than just students; they represent the values of integrity, service, and excellence that are the hallmarks of the U.S. Air Force. I believe they will take those values into their future endeavors, inspiring others and making a significant impact in their communities and beyond.
**Editor:** Thank you, Michael, for sharing your insights. It’s encouraging to see the dedication of the Airmen and the support from the Air Force in their educational journeys.
**Schendel:** Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to support our Airmen and celebrate their achievements.
