Former President Harry S. Truman signed the National Security Act, establishing the Air Force as a separate, independent military service, July 26, 1947. On Sept. 18, 1947, the Air Force was officially established.
This year marks the 72nd birthday of the United States Air Force, and the theme, “Frontiers of Blue…This is 72!” focuses on heritage, warfighting capability and innovation.
“Our heritage officially started in 1947, but our roots reach farther back,” said acting Secretary of the Air Force Matthew Donovan. “Our story began with a garage startup, two bicycle mechanics, and an airplane. Today we’re going faster, higher and smarter than ever before in air, space and cyberspace domains.”
Donovan, Gen. David Golfein, Air Force Chief of Staff and Chief Master Sgt. Kaleth O. Wright of the Air Force, said the key to warfighting success is working alongside joint partners and allies in every corner of the world, on every mission, across multi-domain operations.
“Breaking barriers through innovation takes top talent, and Airmen are our most valuable resource,” they said. “The success of our Air Force hinges on the professionalism, dedication, skill and heroism of each of you. To win future conflicts we must be bold, continue to seek out innovators and develop leaders who will deliver the competitive edge we need for tomorrow.”
Paul Aldrich, 50th Space Wing director of small business programs, said celebrating the Air Force’s birthday helps shed light and remembrance of when the Air Force became its own branch of service.
“It’s been over 70 years, and look at all the accomplishments the Air Force has made over these years,” he said.
Aldrich mentioned the impact Schriever Air Force Base and other bases in Colorado have made across the world.
“Here in Colorado we track Santa via our satellites,” he said. “There has also been two presidents who served in the Air Force [Army Air Forces], Reagan and George W. I have been proud to serve over 20 years. The future is so bright for all of us.”
Both Aldrich and Wright emphasized the importance of the younger generation’s part in the bigger picture that is the Air Force.
“You and your families are woven into the fabric of this great heritage and we are honored to serve alongside you,” Donovan, Goldfein and Wright said. “Join us in wishing a happy 72nd birthday to the United States Air Force.”