South Georgia AFA Honors AFROTC Cadet of the Year

Ian Bittinger, an Air Force ROTC cadet at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Ga., was named AFA’s South Georgia Chapter Cadet of the Year. The award was presented May 1, 2025, at Moody Air Force Base by Chapter President Senior Master Sgt. Jacoby Madden and Chapter Vice President Senior Master Sergeant Patrice Welton.

Bittinger is an AS300 cadet in AFROTC Detachment 172, at Valdosta State University. Det 172 is one of only three AFROTC detachments in Georgia and currently trains 82 cadets. This hidden gem in the Southeast is located 10 miles from Moody, where cadets benefit from mentorship and interaction with Airmen stationed there. These connections provide unique opportunities such as C-130 flights and training exercises with the Base Defense Group. Additionally, the detachment sponsors an annual study abroad program in Normandy, France, further broadening cadets’ professional and cultural experiences.

“Cadet Bittinger has consistently exemplified the determination, dedication, and persistence required to excel in our program,” said Capt. Ryan Wallace, Operations Flight Commander, AFROTC Detachment 172. “From the moment he arrived at our detachment, Ian has led from the front, demonstrated through his active involvement in the Honor Guard, Arnold Air Society, Air-Ground School, and steadfast commitment to volunteerism.”