HomeNewsArticle Display


Air Force presence shines at RAGBRAI 2025

  • Published
  • By Jessica Montano
  • 343rd Recruiting Squadron
OUFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, NEBRASKA --  

Orange City, Iowa ---- The event began with a steady flow of visitors to Orange City, Iowa, where the Air Force made a commanding impression. As the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa unfolded on July 19, an estimated crowd of more than 30,000 attendees surged through downtown drawn in by live music, local vendors, and the unmistakable presence of the Air Force.

The Air Force was on full display with recruiters engaging the public, interactive displays turning heads, and a steady stream of conversations about career opportunities. The Air Force booth was a hub of activity throughout the day, culminated by seven future Airmen taking the spotlight during an enlistment ceremony that inspired cheers from the crowd.

“There is a spirit in the air right now where people want to serve,” said Brig. Gen. Craig McPike, AFRS deputy commander. “We have met our fiscal year recruiting goal and along with the seven future Airmen that took the Oath of Enlistment today, we currently have the largest Delayed Entry Program in recent history.”

During his remarks, he spoke about the Air Force’s readiness, its global role in deterrence and defense, and the opportunities available for those considering service.

“It is competitive to join the Air Force today because we are strong, mentally prepared, physically prepared and more resilient than we have ever been,” said McPike. “We are strong, and we are ready. If there is a threat, we are going to handle it.”

The enlistment ceremony, flyover, and public interaction reflected a broader strategy by AFRS to meet Americans where they are. From local parades to cross-state cycling tours, recruiters are increasingly leveraging community-based events to connect with the next generation of Airmen.

“These events give us direct access to the communities we live in, as well as people we may not be able to meet with regularly,” said Staff Sgt. Jason Brown, 343rd Recruiting Squadron enlisted accessions recruiter. “We make sure to provide attendees with vital future-career information and quality Air Force gear they can use and keep for a long time.”

Adding to the excitement, a KC-135 Stratotanker from the Iowa Air National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing roared overhead in a powerful flyover that captured the attention of the entire city and served as a bold reminder of the strength and reach of America’s airpower.

McPike joined the Air Force Cycling Team this year, which marks the 25th anniversary of the AFCT’s participation in RAGBRAI.

“The Air Force Cycling Team is founded and grounded in service,” said Trey Munn, AFCT executive director. “On any road, any place in the world, if you see a member of the Air Force Cycling Team, they will be serving someone. Whether it is fixing a bike, lending a hand to someone who is down, or sharing their inspirational story, service is their foundation. Our core values of integrity, service and excellence serve as our guiding principles and help us always remember we are ‘The Guardian Angels of the Road’.” 

For a quarter-century, the team has pedaled across Iowa’s heartland, building community relationships, promoting wellness, and representing the Total Force. Comprised of servicemembers, civilians, and veterans, the team demonstrates the endurance, teamwork, and commitment that defines the Air Force.

“The Air Force Cycling Team stopped to help us with a rear derailleur that frayed into our chain,” said Doug, RABRAI rider. “We wouldn’t have had such an awesome ride without them getting us back on the road so quickly.”

As the wheels keep turning across Iowa’s winding roads, the Air Force continues to ride alongside the American people—showing up, standing out, and staying ready.

To explore full and part-time opportunities within the Air Force and Space Force, visit www.AirForce.com or www.SpaceForce.com. To speak with a recruiter near you, click here.