New Air Force Academy Leaders Installed

After months of criticism over its handling of a sexual assault scandal, the Air Force Academy installed two new leaders Thursday at a ceremony before thousands of cadets.

“We must ensure an environment that is free of discrimination, harassment, intimidation or assault of any kind,” Brig. Gen. Johnny Weida told an estimated 4,000 cadets gathered outside the academy’s chapel on a warm spring day.

“Enough talking. It’s time for doing. Be proud, walk tall and do your part to make us better.”

Cadets in military dress blue uniforms stood at attention as Lt. Gen. John Dallager, the academy superintendent, transferred the leadership title and duties to Weida from Brig. Gen. Sylvanus Taco Gilbert, the former commandant of cadets. Nearby was Col. Debra Gray, who took over as vice commandant.

Weida also was named acting superintendent until Maj. Gen. John Rosa, the incoming superintendent, arrives. Another new officer assigned as training group commander is due this month.

After the ceremony, Weida and Gray said they planned to rewrite the cadet training program after they talk with cadets and staff to develop an understanding of the school’s culture.

“You’ve got to get a sense of what’s really going on, so we’re going out there and get that true sense,” Weida said.

“I make a personal commitment and promise to anyone that has an unfortunate incident happen to them that I’ll leave no stone unturned to listen.”

Cadet 1st Class Jeff Cameron, wing commander in charge of cadets, said they will welcome the new leaders.

“Change is never an easy thing to accept. With 4,000 people training to be leaders, it’s more difficult. It’s hard to lead leaders,” he said.

The new leadership is part of an overhaul that began after dozens of female cadets said they were reprimanded or ostracized when they reported assaults. The allegations are under investigation by the Air Force and the Defense Department.

Academy officials plan to cluster female cadets’ rooms and establish round-the-clock security. They will also offer amnesty to cadets raising sexual assault allegations and expel cadets for underage drinking.