In pursuit of excellence 30 obtain CCAF degree

  • Published
  • By By Master Sgt. Donna T. Jeffries
  • 514th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  Thirty Reserve members of the 514th Air Mobility Wing earned Community College of the Air Force Associate in Applied Science degrees in the spring 2010 class. The graduates attended one of two commencement ceremonies held May 2 and 23 at the Expeditionary Center located on Fort Dix.

Officially activated in April 1972 at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, CCAF is an accredited educational institution that offers enlisted Airmen the opportunity to attain degrees in their specialized occupations.

In 1979, the college relocated to Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala. Community College of the Air Force gained full accreditation as a member of the Commission of Colleges in January 1980. CCAF programs combine technical, general and management education relevant to the role of the noncommissioned officer.

Wing leadership encourages every enlisted member to pursue his/her degree.

"You are to be commended for your efforts in completing your CCAF," said Col. Giordano B. McMullen, commander, 514th Air Mobility Wing as he addressed the graduates during the ceremony. "Those who are awarded the degree now bring even more to the Reserve mission," he added.

CCAF degrees are transferable to other college programs and today's environment advocates higher learning is two-of-four reasons 514th AMW Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael Ferraro advises all enlisted to pursue their degree.

"Education is a big deal with the civilian and military environment," said Chief Ferraro. When looking to advance, a candidate's education is reviewed in each area, he said.

Those interested in obtaining their CCAF degree can contact Lorraine Byrd at (609) 754-5227 or visit the Education and Training Office in Building 2216, rm 225.

For more information about the program see http://www.au.af.mil/au/ccaf/.