The Spaatz Award may be awarded to cadets who "successfully complete all phases of the CAP cadet program and the General Carl A. Spaatz Award examination" consisting of a comprehensive leadership and aerospace education written examination, a graded essay and a physical fitness test. To attain the rank of Cadet Colonel, cadets must devote an average of 5 years of service, complete 19 successive rank examinations, pass three promotion boards, a timed 60-question comprehensive exam on leadership theory and CAP regulations, a timed, 60-question comprehensive aerospace exam, pass a timed essay on a question of perennial moral debate where you must argue for/against an issue on moral grounds/making appeals to reason, and pass the United States Air Force Academy Candidate Fitness Assessment. Only three attempts are authorized.The Spaatz Award is arguably the most difficult honor to earn in the CAP cadet program.