Air Force Academy Adjusts Training Protocols for Muslim Cadets During Ramadan
The Air Force Academy recently permitted Muslim cadets to skip physical training during Ramadan, a decision prompted by external advocacy and addressing earlier denials of such requests. Initially, cadets had to individually request permission from their squadron commanders to bypass the physical demands of a pivotal spring exercise. However, the academy reversed its stance following pressure from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation.
According to an anonymous Muslim cadet, about 50 Muslim cadets, including those from the prep school, are currently enrolled. None reportedly had their requests to skip physical training denied. Nevertheless, the cadet emphasized that the initial lack of accommodation forced them to choose between religious observance and training obligations.
Muslim cadets were granted the opportunity to partake in Iftar and evening prayers, crucial elements of Ramadan observance. They also engaged in non-physical components of the training, such as planning missions and road marches in Jack’s Valley. Despite challenging weather conditions, cadets practiced land navigation, casualty care, and demonstrated their understanding of warfare laws.
“Initially, USAFA failed to provide any remedy, leaving Muslim cadets feeling forced to choose between their faith and their training. Only after external pressure did leadership reactively allow exemptions from physical training and provide transportation for evening meals—steps that should have been taken proactively. Future cadets should not have to fight the same battle,” the cadet stated in an email.
This episode marks the first instance in recent years where such requests were initially declined. The academy’s decision reversal came on March 3, days before the exercise began on March 5, following interventions by the Military Religious Freedom Foundation. While the academy did not issue an official statement regarding the change, it highlighted the accommodation of religious activities during the training.
The school allowed Muslim cadets to break their fast nightly, attend evening prayers, and partake in Friday prayer services at Jack’s Valley. Religious observance was also facilitated for Catholic and Jewish cadets, with Ash Wednesday and Shabbat services respectively.
“The U.S. Air Force Academy recognizes the importance of the holy days of all faiths,” the academy noted. Military guidelines mandate accommodating religious practices when feasible, as per the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which prohibits substantial burdens on religious exercise without a compelling reason.
Michael “Mikey” Weinstein, founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, criticized the academy for neglecting cadets’ needs, describing the process as making them feel like “80th-class citizens.” He expressed his disappointment as a former student of the academy.
The Muslim cadet communicated further concerns via the foundation, revealing that their chaplain had suggested foregoing fasting during training, leaving them to face any resulting consequences alone. This advice, combined with a lack of advocacy from the chaplain, further isolated the cadets.
The academy’s response indicated plans to join Muslim cadets for a meal before Ramadan’s conclusion, continuing an annual tradition.
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