Happy 76th Birthday, Air Force!

Happy 76th birthday to our great United States Air Force, and all Airmen, past and present.

I’ve served in the Air Force for more than 16 years. I understand how critical our Air Force personnel are in safeguarding our nation. Whether currently serving or retired, we are all part of a unified force that stands ready to provide America with the necessary air power to deter our adversaries, ensure peace for our allies, and negotiate from a position of strength.

We owe much of the Air Force's success to those who have paved the way before us. The Airmen who fearlessly ventured into new territory and pushed the boundaries of what was possible have set the stage for the capable Airmen of today. These individuals remain pivotal to our accomplishments and competitive edge over our opponents.

During my tenure in the Air Force, I have witnessed the rapid technological developments that allow us to keep up with the demands of our five primary missions: air superiority, global strike, rapid global mobility, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and command and control. From the advent of unmanned aerial vehicles to the creation of state-of-the-art satellite systems, the Air Force has consistently been at the forefront of technological progress.

Benjamin W. Stratton, circa 2008

Overall, my time in the Air Force has taught me the significance of teamwork, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. I am honored to have served alongside some of the most gifted and devoted individuals on the planet, and I am confident that the Air Force will continue to lead the way in safeguarding our nation for many years to come.