Air Force Cadet Chad A. Kuffenkam has graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.

The graduate received a bachelor of science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant.

The academy offers a four-year educational program of instruction and experience designed to provide cadets the knowledge and character essential for air and space leaders, and the motivation to serve as Air Force career officers. The curriculum provides a balanced program of military training, academics, physical training, athletic conditioning, and character and ethical development. The courses of study allow cadets to acquire a broad education in the basic and engineering sciences, social sciences, the humanities, including additional elective courses needed to complete requirements for one of 25 major areas of study.

The new lieutenants go on to serve as pilots, navigators, engineers, maintenance officers, professionals in various management and technical fields, and some attend medical or graduate school with special scholarships, while others go directly to non-rated Air Force-wide assignments.

He is the son of Chris A. and Margaret O. Kuffenkam, International Falls.

Kuffenkam is a 2002 graduate of Falls High School.