CONGER BROTHERS EARN AIRMAN FIRST CLASS

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. (Feb. 4, 2020) -- Zach Conger (left) and older brother Nathaniel Conger (right) received their new Airman First Class stripes pinned from their mother and Harford Composite Squadron Commander Maj. Sam Thomas at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, Feb. 3, 2020.

Promotion to this grade indicates completion of the second of 16 achievements in the program. Some differences though are that at this level, Cadets must pass an aerospace program along with a leadership, drill and an attempt at a physical fitness test. Cadets also must attend at least one Moral Leadership session. Along with this, Cadets sometimes begin serving as element leaders or begin working towards the experience of being flight sergeants while polishing their skills in learning how to be effective followers. The design is similar to that of a Cadet Airman with a second stripe.

The grade accompanies the General H. H. "Hap" Arnold Achievement.

Cadet airmen first class are to be referred to as "Airman" or by their last name by other cadets and "Cadet" by Senior Members.