Senior Spotlight: Cadet Ryan Miles Accepted into U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School

Senior Spotlight: Cadet Ryan Miles Accepted into U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School

Missouri Military Academy (MMA) is proud to announce that Cadet Ryan Miles ’25, of Dallas, Texas, has been accepted into the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School.

Established in 1961 under the command of Colonel Lee Charles Black, the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School provides a pathway for a select group of enlisted personnel and civilians to earn potential appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The 10-month program is designed to develop cadet candidates in the areas of academics, leadership and physical fitness, equipping them with the tools to succeed as future officers. While an appointment to the Academy is not guaranteed, candidates who complete the program earn strong consideration and a recommendation from the Preparatory School commander.

Cadet Miles, the son of Dawn Dickey and Lawrence Miles, has been a standout student-athlete at MMA. A dedicated wrestler, he secured 104 career wins, including a trip to the Missouri State High School Activities Association’s state tournament. A three-time team captain, Miles demonstrated leadership and commitment throughout his athletic career.

“As a coach, I could not ask for a better athlete,” said MMA head wrestling coach Levi Iman. “He has seen so much success and has been a huge asset in bringing our wrestling program up to the next step, all done with a quiet humility.”

Cadet Miles will bring his strong work ethic, humility and proven leadership skills to the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School this fall as he continues his journey toward serving as a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force.

Congratulatons, Cadet Miles!

Cadet News

Missouri Military Academy Interim Commandant of Cadets Major Wayne Welander stands in his military uniform against a backdrop of the American and MMA flags.

Missouri Military Academy has designated MAJ Wayne Welander, USA (Ret), to serve as interim commandant of cadets at the college preparatory military boarding school. Currently the senior Army instructor, Welander assumes the commandant’s duties of overseeing residential life, fostering self-discipline, personal responsibility and accountability with the Academy’s middle and high school cadets, guiding them in taking command of their lives. 

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