April 7, 2006

On a Wing and a Prayer

After accusations of intolerance, the U.S. Air Force Academy preaches religious respect. Critics call the effort a Band-Aid.

By Sara Lipka

Colorado Springs, Colo.

On a February afternoon here at the U.S. Air Force Academy, a few dozen cadets trudge into a small, square room. The blinds are drawn, and at 12:05 p.m. an instructor dims the lights and turns on a video.

The freshmen, gawky in their fatigues and heavy boots, slouch in their seats and stare dutifully at the screen. An image of the academy's superintendent, Lt. Gen. John F. Regni, appears before them. "We must ... recognize and respect the right of all our uniformed and civilian