HAPPY 77TH BIRTHDAY TO THE U.S. AIR FORCE

For 77 years, the United States Air Force (USAF) has been an integral part of defending our nation. The branch was established after the National Security Act of 1947, transferring the Army Air Forces (AAF) to the Department of the Air Force. Ever since, the legacies of Airmen continue to evolve, fighting hard to defend our nation through wars, online, in space, and assisting in many other heroic endeavors when needed.

When Is the Air Force Birthday?

The Air Force's birthday is celebrated on September 18th every year. In 1947, this was the date in which Stuart Symington was sworn in as the branch’s first Secretary by Chief Justice Fred Vinson.

On September 26, 1947, General Carl A. Spaatz joined the then-newest branch of the U.S. military as its first Chief of Staff.

Every year, you’ll find a variety of celebrations to honor the history of Airmen and their continued contributions to our world.

U.S. Air Force birthday celebrations typically take place during September, involving ceremonies, flyovers, aerial performances, and more.

Furthermore, there are additional celebrations that may take place during special years.

For example, anniversaries ending in “0” or “5” may include events by organizations, such as sporting events, outside of the month, during that year.

Birthing the USAF

Long before its official establishment, since the miracle of flight became a reality, the origins of the USAF were beginning. 

This was seen when the U.S. Army Signal Corps created its Aeronautical Division in 1907, which focused on balloons and other air machines.

Fast forward to today, and it’s clear that the aerial needs of the military have advanced beyond anything imaginable during these days.

Throughout the history and pre-history of the USAF, such endeavors would grow larger, more complex, and more ingrained in the importance of our national defense.

Technology got better and the AAF would grow in size and its capabilities.

After becoming the U.S. Army Command in 1942, and the role of aerial combat during World War II, it was clear another branch was necessary to meet the military’s needs.

This is why the USAF was born when President Harry Truman signed the National Security Act of 1947, to better operate airborne missions as needed.

Continuing to Reach New Heights

Celebrating the United States Air Force's birthday isn’t just a time to honor Airmen and their origins but to also assess the history that came to be after the branch’s creation.

The Air Force Space Command (AFSC) was created on September 1, 1982, to help better coordinate the military’s operations involving space.

An area that would evolve rapidly during the Cold War as satellites, ballistic missiles, and other endeavors took the eyes of the Earth and pointed them to the heavens.

Eventually, the USAF would find itself doing what it knew well—creating a new branch of the military due to evolving needs.

The U.S. Space Force (USSF) was created on December 20, 2019, as what is now the military’s newest branch.

This came to be as a result of expanding military needs involving space.

The roles that Guardians play are still being forged as Airmen are still heavily tied with many of the same tasks due to size, experience, and organizational factors.

Celebrating the 77th Birthday of the Air Force

Our nation’s aerial abilities are an important part of keeping our nation safe on and off of the battlefield.

If you’re looking for ways to say "Happy Birthday Air Force," here are a few ways you can celebrate:

• Give back to Airmen with donations. You can dedicate time volunteering or make a donation to one of the many organizations supporting the USAF.

• Check in on Air Force families and provide support. A simple gesture, such as their favorite coffee order or a homecooked meal, can go a long way.

• Read up on the history of the Air Force. If you’re not into staring at a Kindle or book for some time, there are documentaries and films you can also enjoy.

• If you’re in the Dayton, Ohio area, visiting the National Museum of the United States Air Force, or any local museum dedicated to the USAF in your area, is a great way to learn more while being entertained.

Celebrating the Air Force’s birthday can be done in many ways and continuing to honor the people serving in these roles is an important part of maintaining pride and support for our nation.

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