Douglas High School Air Force JROTC Awarded $36,100 Ray Foundation Grant to Upgrade Flight Simulator to Full-Motion Platform
Douglas High School Air Force JROTC (Unit SD-061) received a $36,100 grant from the Ray Foundation, Inc. to upgrade its stationary Redbird flight simulator to a state-of-the-art full-motion training platform.
The funding allows Unit SD-061, which serves a 60-cadet corps directly adjacent to Ellsworth Air Force Base, to bring advanced, true-to-life vestibular flight training to students at no out-of-pocket cost to families.
The upgraded Redbird platform adds pitch, roll, and realistic control feedback. This motion cueing teaches muscle memory, crosswind landing techniques, instrument response, and spatial orientation before cadets ever step into an actual aircraft cockpit, providing essential preparation for future flight training.
"This generous investment from the Ray Foundation bridges the gap between ground school theory and real-world aviation," said MSgt Chester N. Stewart Jr., USAF (Ret.), Aerospace Science Instructor at Douglas High School. "For many of our cadets, real-world flight lessons are financially out of reach. Giving them hands-on access to a full-motion simulator builds confidence, sharpens spatial judgment, and significantly boosts their competitiveness for prestigious flight academy and Ray Aviation scholarships."
Founded in 1971, Unit SD-061 holds a 55-year legacy of excellence in Box Elder, including 18 consecutive Distinguished Unit Awards. The unit's Aviation Honors Ground School has produced 15 graduates over the past three years, with many cadets active in or dual-enrolled with the South Dakota Wing Civil Air Patrol (Rushmore Composite Squadron).
The full-motion upgrade project is scheduled for procurement and installation over the coming months, with full curriculum integration expected in early 2027.
About Air Force JROTC Unit SD-061
Air Force JROTC Unit SD-061 at Douglas High School (Box Elder, SD) develops citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community. Led by USAF veteran instructors, the unit logs over 3,000 hours of community service every two-year cycle and provides structured aerospace and leadership education to high school students.
About the Ray Foundation, Inc.
The Ray Foundation, Inc. seeks to promote technology, life skills, and character development in young people through aviation programs, helping youth develop discipline and leadership skills to reach their full potential.
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