Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) Headquarters has announced the recipients of scholarships for attendance in an accredited private pilot license training program during the summer of 2024 at aviation universities nationwide.

Among the over 1,100 cadets from units globally who applied, 171 were awarded scholarships, each valued at approximately $26,500. This comprehensive scholarship covers transportation, room and board, academic expenses, and the flight hours required to potentially earn a private pilot license.

The Flight Academy Scholarship Program, a U.S. Air Force initiative in collaboration with the commercial aviation industry, addresses both national military and civilian pilot shortages. It offers a challenging yet impactful eight-week summer course at partner universities, enabling aspiring aviators to earn their private pilot's certification at no cost. Participants receive a college transcript, with no military commitment to the Air Force or any other branch of service. Completion of the program does not guarantee acceptance into military commissioning programs but aligns with the core principles of AFJROTC, fostering citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community.

With more than 120,000 high school students enrolled in Air Force Junior ROTC at nearly 875 high schools in the U.S. and overseas, the Flight Academy caters to those who aspire to soar both figuratively and literally.
For additional information on AFJROTC and the Flight Academy, visit www.airuniversity.af.edu/holm-center/afjrotc.

Daphne High School's AFJROTC program experienced success in the latest cycle with two cadets selected and one designated as an alternate. Spanish Fort AFJROTC Junior cadets Landon Ward and Arthur Zamprogno received notifications of their selections on December 12. Additionally, on the same date, Daphne Junior cadet Grace Godwin was notified of her selection as an alternate.

These accomplished cadets are enrolled in an Honors Ground School class instructed by Daphne Senior Aerospace Science Instructor and retired Lt. Col. Doug Goodlin, a former military helicopter and fixed-wing pilot. “These cadets have excelled in this class, learning all aspects of aviation, from ground training, aerodynamics, communications and weather and navigation, “Goodlin said. “I have been impressed with this whole class and their passion for learning about flying.

In the upcoming summer, these cadets will attend an 8-week flight program at a college to earn their private pilot's license. The comprehensive scholarship, valued at over $26,500, covers transportation, room and board, daily academics, and flying lessons. Upon their return, they will be eligible for monthly flying practice with the local Civil Air Patrol unit.

The AFJROTC program at Daphne High School continues to nurture aspiring aviators, providing them with valuable knowledge and opportunities in the field of aviation.