Air & Space Forces Association

The Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), previously known as the Air Force Association, is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, professional military organization dedicated to supporting the United States Air Force and United States Space Force. Founded on February 4, 1946, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the association plays a pivotal role in promoting public understanding and advocacy for aerospace power.

Mission and Objectives

AFA's mission is to educate the public about the critical role of aerospace power in national defense, advocate for strong aerospace forces, and support airmen, guardians, and their families. The organization aims to ensure a dominant U.S. Air and Space Force as the foundation of a strong national defense.

Programs and Initiatives

AFA publishes Air & Space Forces, a magazine that was previously titled Air Force Magazine until its name change in September 2022. It also issues the Daily Report, an online news briefing. The association is home to the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, which serves as a public policy and research arm focused on airpower studies.

AFA organizes national conferences and symposia, where key Air Force and national defense leaders share insights on current aerospace and defense issues. It sponsors professional development seminars, offers national awards recognizing excellence in the aerospace field, and provides scholarships and grants to Air Force members and their dependents. Additionally, AFA supports initiatives promoting science and math education at the elementary and secondary school levels.

One of AFA's notable educational initiatives is the CyberPatriot program, a national youth cyber education program aimed at fostering interest in cybersecurity and STEM fields among students. The association also hosts events and educational programs through its university-level arm, the Arnold Air Society, embedded in college and university Air Force ROTC units.

Structure and Leadership

AFA is led by volunteer leaders at the national, state, and local levels. The organization has more than 230 chapters across the United States, each conducting programs to increase public awareness of national security issues. AFA's national policies are adopted at its annual convention, where delegates from chapters and states gather to vote on initiatives.

History

AFA was established in response to the growing need for an advocacy group for airpower veterans following World War II. The organization's heritage is rooted in the legacy of General Billy Mitchell, a pioneer in airpower advocacy. Over the years, AFA has evolved to address changing technological and human demands, consistently supporting Air Force personnel and strengthening American aerospace power.

In April 2022, the Air Force Association officially renamed itself the Air & Space Forces Association to reflect its expanded mission supporting both the Air Force and the newly established Space Force, while maintaining its AFA abbreviation.