Air Force defeats Navy 14-9 in Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy opener

The Air Force Falcons defeated the Navy Midshipmen 14-9 in the opening game of the 2026 Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy competition. Liam Szarka led the Falcons with two rushing touchdowns and 82 passing yards.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth attended the game at the Air Force Academy in Colorado. Prior to the matchup, Hegseth addressed approximately 3,500 cadets as part of his ‘Send Me Tour,’ a military outreach initiative. During his remarks, he discussed strategic military initiatives, including the Autonomous Warfare Command and Project Meridian, while emphasizing the importance of service and the ‘warrior ethos.’

Hegseth also addressed recent media coverage regarding the conflict with Iran, characterizing certain reporting on troop conditions and deployment lengths as ‘national betrayal’ and ‘treason.’ This follows reports concerning the USS Abraham Lincoln’s extended deployment. Additionally, the Department of War announced the ‘Corps of Cadets’ program, designating institutions like Tuskegee University, Louisiana State University, Liberty University, Mississippi State University, and Hillsdale College as ‘Distinguished Military Colleges’ to prioritize officer commissioning.