Sept. 18 marks the 67th birthday of the United States Air Force.
The armed forces branch was created in 1947 when President Harry S. Truman passed The National Security Act. According to Military.com, the Air Force has become about more than just flight – servicemembers also work in technical and support roles on the ground.
A celebration was held on Friday, Sept. 12, in Arlington, Virginia, reported CNBC. It featured performances by the U.S. Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants and the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team.
On the anniversary, current Air Force Secretary Deborah James reflected on past achievements and looked ahead to future obstacles. According to a piece she penned for The Denver Post, a strategic blueprint for the next 30 years was recently laid out, and a large focus will be placed on staying updated with cutting-edge technology.
James wrote in an op-ed for Air Force Times, "In the next three decades, we'll face declining defense budgets, changes in technology, nations and groups acquiring weapons, changing communications, and geopolitical instability. Our Airmen must prepare for a range of missions, and adapt ahead of the rapid pace of change."