Niagara reservists gets a shot at AF Academy

Published Jan. 6, 2011
By Senior Airman Andrew Caya
914th Public Affairs Public Affairs

NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. -- A 914th Airlift Wing Airman has been selected to visit the United States Air Force Academy with the prospects of applying and being accepted into the prestigious military school.

Senior Airman Magdalena Torres, a 914th Maintenance Squadron Aerospace Ground Equipment journeyman, has the opportunity to attend the "Leaders Encouraging Airman Development Diversity Visitation Program" January 13 through 15 at the Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The Air Force Academy and its programs really open doors, Airman Torres said. "It's very exciting to be selected for the program."

USAFA LEAD DVP Director 2nd Lt. Amanda Castravet elaborated on the selection process and the opportunities of the program she heads.

We treat all LEAD DVP applicants just like they are applying to the academy, Lieutenant Castravet said. We are looking for stellar Airmen who chose military service before college and who are willing to work hard for their education.

Lieutenant Castravet went on to say that Torres also has the chance to attend the USAFA Prep School, located on the Academy grounds, to brush up on her academics prior to attending the regular academy course work.

Although Torres is going through the same selection process as other cadets, there is something she will face that not many USAFA Cadets have.

"When she enters Cadet Basic Training at the academy, she will be put into a leadership role due to the fact that she is in the operational Air Force," said Lieutenant Castravet. Other cadets will be looking up to her, she added.

Lieutenant Castravet stressed that Air Force leaders need to do more for the sharp troops in their sections.

"Non-commissioned officers, and officers, should be finding these outstanding Airmen and point them in the direction of the Academy, so they can broaden their horizons," Lieutenant Castravet said. "We like to see the Airmen succeed here."

If accepted into the Academy, Torres said she is not sure what academic area she will concentrate in; however, Torres said, "it feels great to be accepted into this program."