Lackland AFB gives airmen a chance to learn more about the LEAD program

Kirk VanHouten

Airmen at Lackland AFB seeking to advance their careers in the service may be in luck this month, as base officials have organized several informational meetings about the Leaders Encouraging Airmen Development (LEAD) program, a fast track to enrollment in the Air Force academy or the academy preparatory school.

The academies are an airman's ticket to an officer's position, and are among the most prestigious educational institutions in the armed forces.

Two preparatory school cadets, both of whom have served as enlisted airmen according to the military press, will be on base to brief eligible soldiers on the particulars of the admissions process and academy life.

"This is a chance to visit with current cadets, get more information and start the application process for 2011-2012," said Master Sergeant Timothy Godfrey, Lackland's career assistance advisor, 802nd Force Support Squadron. "It's an opportunity to ask questions, alleviate any rumors they may have heard and talk to Airmen that have been in their position."

Godfrey recommends that soldiers apply to both the academy and prep school, as the officer training school only takes 4 percent of applicants each year while prep school has a notably higher acceptance rate.

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