Hey Mark its Chewie from Lackland AFB! I graduated today and boy what an experience! I wanted to let you know that out of all the training I've had the past 6 weeks what helped prepare me the most for Basic Military Training were the months of vigorous training I shared this past summer with the Academy Drum and Bugle corps.

What separated the boys from the men was who was prepared the most before BMT (Basic Military Training). A summer of DBC, in my opinion, is a perfect environment to prepare for the challenges and how to cope with the stress. I found myself going back to tons of things we did in rehearsals such as the breathing and marching techniques but especially applying the discipline I learned in those grueling rehearsals in 114 degree heat.

Thank you, Mark, for taking the steps necessary to provide Arizona with one of the best organizations that provide young adults a foundation of values that is essential in life; discipline, respect, honor, pride, and excellence in all we do. For dreaming of the Arizona Academy because to me, its provided me my dreams for my future, and I pray, will do the same for others. I miss you all, God bless.

A1C Michael Rivera


(The photo here is Michael opening his brand new Academy trumpet for the first time)