AFA Cadets visit Ellsworth Published June 21, 2011 By Tech. Sgt. Nathan Gallahan 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Five U.S. Air Force Academy cadets will receive a firsthand look at their possible active-duty career fields June 19 through July 7 as part of "Operation Air Force." The cadets arrived at Ellsworth Air Force Base to participate in the program, which allows them to see the "Real Air Force" and gain as much information as possible before choosing a career path. Nineteen cadets will be visiting Ellsworth throughout the summer during three independent visits. "This is meant to show us the operational Air Force and how everyone interacts," said Cadet 2nd Class Irene Joyce, Air Force Academy cadet. She explained how each Air Force Academy junior is assigned to a specific base, subsequently traveling to that base to shadow officers in various career fields. The experience provides cadets with a better understanding of their future service in the Air Force. "Operation Air Force gives us an opportunity to help these future leaders better understand the wide array of careers available to them," said Col. Steven Hiss, 28th BW Vice Commander. "Our goal is to provide them with information to strengthen their understanding of the Air Force and help them lay a solid foundation on which to build their future careers" In addition to talking with Airmen about their day-to-day activities, the cadets will also visit facilities on Ellsworth to learn about each of their functions.