LEXINGTON, Va. May 6, 2026 — Air Force ROTC Detachment 880 is proud to announce that six AS100 cadets have been awarded prestigious three-year scholarships, recognizing their academic achievement, physical fitness, and leadership potential during their first year in the program.

The recipients Damy Garcia, Allie Hickman, Reily Gabbard, Joshua Kuhl, Luke Burnell, and Wyatt Dollenger were selected following a highly competitive board process. These scholarships cover tuition and fees, provide a monthly living allowance, and include an annual book stipend, allowing these future officers to focus entirely on their development as leaders of character.

A Foundation for Leadership

The transition from a civilian or Rat status to a scholarship contracted cadet is a significant milestone in the Air Force commissioning pipeline. For these AS100s, the award is not just a financial benefit but a formal commitment to serve as officers in the US Air Force or US Space Force upon graduation.

Awarding these scholarships to our freshman class is a testament to the caliber of talent we are attracting at VMI and our partner schools. These six individuals have consistently demonstrated the core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Cadet Maximus Ankrah ‘26
Air Force ROTC Detachment 880
Photos courtesy of VMI Air Force ROTC