Kenneth Douglas Wilkins, a 2005 graduate of Santa Ynez
Valley Union High School, graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy May 27,
earning a bachelor’s degree in legal studies and a commission of second
lieutenant in the United States Air Force.
There was an entire week of activities including
Baccalaureate, Superintendant’s Reception, Organizational Awards Parade,
Graduation Parade, Commissioning and Graduation.
Wilkins’ Commissioning Ceremony was held at the Lawrence
Paul Pavilion on the grounds of the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Air Officer Commander Major Snodgrass administered the
officer’s oath to Wilkins, in which he pledged to defend our country’s
Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
Graduation day was warm and sunny. Vice President Joe
Biden spoke to the graduating second lieutenants about their commitment. He
saluted and shook the hands of all 1,046 graduating cadets.
The Thunderbirds perfectly timed their fly over with the
tossing of the hats, and then performed an outstanding show for the graduates
and guests.
Following a 60-day leave, Wilkins will report to Vance
Air Force Base in Enid, Okla. where he will begin pilot training. In exchange
for his four-year education and pilot training, he will serve in the Air Force
for 10 years.
Wilkins is the son of Doug and Susan Wilkins of Los Olivos, grandson of the late Lawrence and Estelle Wilkins
of Santa Barbara, and maternal grandson of Dolores and the late Jack O’Neill of
Garden Grove, Calif. He is the third generation Santa Barbara County resident.