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AFROTC Det 755 earns $160,000 in aviation scholarships

  • Published
  • By Air Force ROTC Detachment 755
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico --  

In a significant achievement for AFROTC Detachment 755 at the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras, seven cadets are the recipients of $20,000 each in scholarship awards to pursue their private pilot license through the AFROTC "You Can Certify" program.

An additional four cadets have each received $5,000 scholarships as part of the AFROTC "You Can Fly" program, marking the largest number of flying scholarships awarded in Detachment 755’s history. These scholarships support the Air Force's goal of fostering a talented and diverse pilot pool.

"Our cadets are incredibly dedicated, and it’s inspiring to see their hard work being recognized in such a meaningful way," Lt. Col. Robby Modad, Detachment 755 commander, said. "This initiative is more than a scholarship—it's an investment in the Air Force's future leaders from all walks of life."

The "You Can Certify" program provides essential funding to help cadets obtain their private pilot license, a fundamental credential for aspiring pilots and a crucial first step in building a career in aviation. Earning the $20,000 "You Can Certify" scholarship award for flight training were Cadets Anniel Flete, Christian Lebron, Jadriel Delgado, Christopher Bauzo, Jansteven Escribano, Diego Rosado and Naiomy Martinez.

"Receiving the ‘You Can Certify’ scholarship means so much more to me than just financial assistance; it represents a pivotal step toward achieving my dreams. This scholarship is a testament to the belief others have in my potential to serve and lead as an Air Force officer and future pilot,” Bauzo said. “It’s a reminder that my hard work, dedication and commitment to my goals are being recognized and valued. This opportunity empowers me to focus even more intently on my studies, training and preparation to one day soar in the skies, protecting and defending our country."

The certification allows cadets to gain practical flight experience and an introduction to the aviation world, preparing them for potential roles as Air Force aviators.

The "You Can Fly" program further supports aspiring pilots, offering scholarships that allow cadets to explore aviation and build foundational skills at a reduced financial burden. Earning the $5,000 “You Can Fly” scholarships were Cadets Jennalys Vila, Alanis Colon, Lara Santiago and Xavier Alvarez.

“It is an honor to be one of the few cadets selected for this opportunity, because this will help me gain the initial experience that I need to become an Air Force pilot one day,” Santiago said. “Having this opportunity also increased my confidence, it demonstrated that I am capable."

The success of these programs at Detachment 755 directly supports the Secretary of the Air Force’s initiatives to increase diversity within the Air Force’s ranks, enhancing the inclusivity and adaptability of the force. By investing in a diverse pool of future pilots, Detachment 755 is actively contributing to a stronger, more capable Air Force, Modad said.

“These scholarship awards underscore Detachment 755’s commitment to excellence, inclusion and innovation,” the detachment commander added. “With these cadets preparing to take to the skies, the future of Air Force aviation is in good hands.”