The mission of the U.S. Air Force is to fly, fight and win – airpower anytime, anywhere. Whether full time, part time, in or out of uniform, everyone who serves plays a critical role in helping us achieve mission success.
WE PURSUE OUR MISSION WITH EXCELLENCE AND INTEGRITY TO BECOME LEADERS, INNOVATORS AND WARRIORS.
IT’S OUR PROMISE TO PROTECT
The U.S. Air Force is the world’s preeminent force in air, space and cyberspace. We maintain that distinction by maintaining our objective of global vigilance, reach and power and remaining true to our vision statement: The World’s Greatest Air Force—Powered by Airmen, Fueled by Innovation. Through shared values, key capabilities and upholding our Airman’s Creed, we continue to achieve our mission and aim high in all we do.
AIRMAN’S CREED
We share an unbreakable trust and the will to never give up. The Airman’s Creed is our promise to country and colleagues.
JOIN THE AIR FORCE OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL
By enlisting in the Air Force, you’re enrolling in the largest community college in America and will simultaneously be able to earn credits toward your degree, learn a job and earn a paycheck.
When you join the United States Air Force with your high school diploma or GED, you’re automatically enrolled in the Community College of the Air Force. So you’ll automatically begin working toward your associate’s degree in applied science in one of five career areas: aircraft and missile maintenance, electronics and telecommunications, allied health, logistics and resources or public and support services. With a unique combination of on-duty and voluntary off-duty courses, you’ll earn college credit just for reporting for duty, learning your job and getting started on your career.
JOIN AIR FORCE ROTC
Available at more than 1,000 colleges and universities across the country, Air Force ROTC can help you study at the college of your choice, earn your degree and prepare you for your role as an Air Force officer upon graduation.
To excel in AFROTC, you’ll need dedication, discipline and drive. Three- to four-year scholarships are available on a competitive basis to students still in high school or already in college who display outstanding academic and leadership qualities. Many colleges offer an additional subsidy for tuition and books to AFROTC cadets. AFROTC members without a scholarship still receive immeasurable benefits, including leadership experience and a guaranteed job as an officer in the Air Force after graduation. It’s a challenge that can prepare you for a lifetime of success. For the most up-to-date information, visit the official Air Force ROTC website.
It takes great determination and advanced preparation to get accepted into the U.S. Air Force Academy. This prestigious institution builds character, creates leaders and offers a world-class education and cost-free tuition in exchange for your commitment to serve as an officer upon graduation.
Don’t just be the best in your class, become one of the best your country has to offer by joining the U.S. Air Force Academy. Admissions are extremely competitive and the process is intensive—in addition to academic and physical screenings, a U.S. Congressman, Senator or the Vice President of the United States must nominate you for appointment. To place yourself a step ahead, you must excel in academic performance, extracurricular leadership and physical fitness. While the process is very comprehensive, The Admissions Office at the Air Force Academy is ready to help walk you through any questions you might have. For the most complete information, visit the official Air Force Academy admissions website.
IT’S OUR PROMISE TO PROTECT
The U.S. Air Force is the world’s preeminent force in air, space and cyberspace. We maintain that distinction by maintaining our objective of global vigilance, reach and power and remaining true to our vision statement: The World’s Greatest Air Force—Powered by Airmen, Fueled by Innovation. Through shared values, key capabilities and upholding our Airman’s Creed, we continue to achieve our mission and aim high in all we do.
GET STARTED ON YOUR JOURNEY
Joining the Air Force is a life-changing decision and opportunity. Airmen fulfill important roles in service to our country, enjoy a close-knit community and embrace a global lifestyle. It’s a journey that’s full of growth and opportunity. Take time to learn about all aspects of Air Force life, make the right preparations, and discover how joining can be a good fit for your future.
THE FIRST STEPS TOWARD YOUR FUTURE
Whether you choose the enlisted or officer route to becoming an Airman, once you’ve made the decision to join the Air Force, the process is simple. We confirm your eligibility and measure your aptitude to discover your best skills and greatest strengths. Familiarize yourself with the application process that best fits your qualifications or explore both of them to find your path and begin to prepare for success.
When you enlist with a High School diploma or GED, you’ll receive hands-on training and start earning college credits while you learn a job integral to our mission. Explore the process and requirements for becoming an enlisted Airman.
PREPARE TO LEAD
When you join the Air Force with a college degree in hand or if you are a healthcare, legal or ministry professional, we’ll provide the training you need to become an effective and responsible leader. If you’re called to lead, explore the process and requirements for becoming an Air Force Officer.
THE SKY WAS NEVER THE LIMIT
For over a century, the U.S. Air Force has defended this country in the air, space and cyberspace through the skill and the bravery of American Airmen.
The dawn of the new century witnessed man take to the air for the first time in a heavier-than-air-powered aircraft conceived and flown by two Ohio bicycle salesmen. Their maiden flight on that cold, windy December day in 1903, and the subsequent decade of innovation that followed, would help put the U.S. on a course to become the most powerful, most advanced country in the world.
The dawn of the new century witnessed man take to the air for the first time in a heavier-than-air-powered aircraft conceived and flown by two Ohio bicycle salesmen. Their maiden flight on that cold, windy December day in 1903, and the subsequent decade of innovation that followed, would help put the U.S. on a course to become the most powerful, most advanced country in the world.
For centuries, war was reserved for the battlefields and the high seas. But when the war to end all wars broke out in Europe on July 28, 1914, the once-peaceful skies would quickly know the ravages of manned conflict. Soon, fixed-wing aircraft would be conducting ground attacks and taking part in aerial dogfights with the U.S. poised to take the lead.
The Second World War would draw over 30 countries and all the world’s superpowers into the deadliest conflict in human history. And there was no battleground more vital to victory than the sky above. Beginning with Japan bombing Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and ending with the U.S. dropping two atomic bombs on Japanese cities almost four years later, the skies became the ultimate high ground.