KAFA, the Academy's cadet-run radio station began broadcasting at 6:57 p.m., under the direction of Cadet John Severski ’71.  ----more----

In early 1971, singer-songwriter Don McLean wrote and recorded one of the most iconic songs in history, “American Pie.” The song addressed the Feb. 3, 1959, death of singer Buddy Holly, describing it as “The Day the Music Died.” While McLean was working on his masterpiece, the Air Force Academy experienced “The Day the Music Was Born.” At 6:57 p.m. on Sunday evening, Jan. 17, 1971, KAFA went on the air for the first time.

- Copy credit, Steve Simon ’77

The Heritage Minute Channel is a production of the Long Blue Line Podcast Network and presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation