Wagner Community School class of 2024 graduate, Vincent Bechen, joined the Air Force after graduation. Bechen attended boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, graduating on October 24, 2024. Bechen’s flight of 54 individuals earned the Commanders Excellence award at graduation. Bechen was also only one of a couple of soldiers who earned three ribbons during bootcamp. He received his completion of bootcamp, academic scoring and marksmanship ribbons.

After bootcamp, Bechen continued his training at Lackland in Security Forces and graduated on March 6, 2025. During the graduation ceremony, one individual was recognized for earning and being Commander and recommended for Top Gun distinction. The class’ Top Gun distinction was awarded to Airman First Class Vincent Bechen. The Top Gun demonstrates excellence in the handling of all weaponry and any related academic scoring.

Bechen was recently back in South Dakota to assist the air force recruiter in Sioux Falls for a couple of weeks. As of April 1, 2025, Bechen will report to Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, NM for his first duty station.

Congratulations Vincent! The Wagner community is very proud of your accomplishments.