MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala -- Air University’s Officer Training School commissioned its first two U.S. Space Force officers Oct. 16, 2020, on Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama.
The OTS mission has historically been to properly educate and train Air Force officers to be prepared for the field, that mission has now been expanded to accommodate space professionals as well.
Second Lieutenants Amy Coba & Elizabeth Kowal, members of OTS class 20-08, are the first Space Force officers commissioned through OTS.
“It was a unique and memorable experience to be amongst the entire 20-08 class,” Coba said. “I had the full support of my flight and I became well known amongst the Spartan squadron. Everyone I encountered was excited and proud of me for making history.”
“I feel like a pioneer going into a new realm of the military,” Kowal said. “This is literally the adventure of a lifetime and I can't wait to jump in with everything that I have. I look forward to the challenge of contributing to a more diverse and inclusive branch of professionals from industry and military alike. I'm eager to further my knowledge of space while protecting my country.”
Alongside their counterparts from the Air Force Academy, Coba and Kowal are now among the select few who have commissioned directly into the new branch, joining the more than 16,000 military and civilian personnel who transferred from the Air Force Space Command.
“Every time someone discovered that I was commissioning directly into the Space Force their eyes would light up and I was instantly met with support and encouragement from my peers,” Kowal said.
Coba and Kowal have paved the way for a new generation of U.S. Space Force officers, marking a significant milestone for the DoD as a whole.
“I am thrilled to be part of the journey in establishing the foundations of the Space Force and to lead the United States in space exploration,” Coba said. “It is an honor and privilege to serve my country and pave the way for future generations of space professionals.”