“The United States Air Force will be a trusted and reliable joint partner with our sister services known for integrity in all of our activities, including supporting the joint mission first and foremost. We will provide compelling air, space, and cyber capabilities for use by the combatant commanders. We will excel as stewards of all Air Force resources in service to the American people, while~United States Air Force Vision providing precise and reliable Global Vigilance, Reach and Power for the nation.”

~United States Air Force Vision

Sixty-seven years ago today, and thanks to the strokes of President Harry S. Truman‘s pen, the United States Air Force was born.

Previously a subordinate unit to the United States Army, the National Security Act of 1947 gave the Air Force its wings. Since then, this proud branch of service has evolved into the most technologically-advanced, most feared Air Force on the planet.

Under the superb leadership of Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James and Chief of Staff General Mark A. Welsh III, the Air Force continues to look ahead, pioneering new and innovative ways to achieve battlespace dominance across four domains– Air, Land, Space, and Cyberspace.

Be proud of what your Air Force has accomplished in its rich history, America. Respect its rich traditions, support is goals and missions, and most importantly, honor the more than 500,000 people spread across the active duty, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserves, who have the privilege to call themselves American Airmen.