Cadets trade spring break fun for dirt and debris

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Spring break usually conjures thoughts of fun and sun, but scores of cadets will spend their time building or repairing homes and clearing debris as part of the Academy’s Alternate Spring Break Program.

"The cadet-volunteers will team-up with Habitat for Humanity volunteers in nine separate locations," said Maj. Brian Fash, cadet service learning deputy. “Two areas were affected by hurricanes.”

He said the ninety-nine cadets taking part in the program will depart March 23 for the 10 day break.

"So far this academic year, the cadets have completed more than 22,031 hours of community service," Fash said.

The Alternate Spring Break Program began at the Academy in 1999. It’s funded by the Center for Character & Leadership Development and Academy donors.