Today marks the 65th birthday of the United States Air Force (USAF), the aerial warfare service branch of the United States armed forces.
USAF was originally part of the United States Army and was created as a military branch in its own right on Sept. 18, 1947. It is the most recent branch of the U.S. military to be formed, and is the largest and most technologically advanced air force in the world.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy issued a message to members of the USAF.
"We salute all of the dedicated Airmen who serve or have served in our Nation's youngest and most innovative Service," the message said in part. "The challenges confronting our country are great; but our active duty, Guard, Reserve, and civilian Airmen have never failed to answer our nation's call. Working together in common purpose as one Air Force, we will keep America secure today and for all the years to come."
MFRI joins Americans everywhere in honoring the USAF service members and their families who serve alongside them.