Air & Space Forces Association

The website www.afa.org serves as the digital home for the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), a key organization dedicated to supporting the United States Air Force (USAF) and United States Space Force (USSF).

Organizational Background and Purpose

• History: Founded on February 4, 1946, initially as the Air Force Association, the organization was established by visionary leaders like General Hap Arnold in the post-World War II era to advocate for robust American airpower. In 2020, reflecting the establishment of the U.S. Space Force, the association expanded its mission and name to become the Air & Space Forces Association, now supporting both Airmen and Guardians.
• Definition: AFA is an independent, non-profit, professional military and aerospace education association.
• Mission: Its stated mission is threefold:
  1. Promote dominant U.S. Air and Space Forces as the foundation of a strong National Defense.
  2. Honor and support Airmen, Guardians, and their families.
  3. Remember and respect the enduring heritage of the services.

Core Activities and Website Features

The website provides access to AFA's primary functions and resources:

• Advocacy: Details AFA's efforts to influence policy and public opinion in support of the USAF and USSF, advocating for necessary resources and modernization.
• News and Information: Features current news related to the Air Force, Space Force, defense industry, and AFA activities.
• Membership: Provides information on joining AFA, member benefits, and ways to get involved through local chapters and national events.
• Events: Lists and provides details about key AFA events, including the prominent Air, Space & Cyber Conference.
• Education and Professional Development: Offers resources aimed at educating the public and members about air and space power.

Distinctive Offerings

• Air & Space Forces Magazine: The website hosts AFA's flagship publication, offering in-depth articles, analysis, interviews, and news covering aerospace power, technology, policy, and personnel issues.
• The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies: This is AFA's in-house think tank, providing independent research and analysis on national security, airpower, and space power issues. The website features its reports, policy papers, and event information.

Value Proposition for Users

The website and AFA membership offer several advantages:

• Access to Exclusive Content: Provides specialized news, analysis from the Air & Space Forces Magazine, and research from the Mitchell Institute.
• Networking Opportunities: Connects members of the Air Force, Space Force, industry partners, and aerospace enthusiasts through events and chapter activities.
• Platform for Support: Enables individuals to actively support Airmen, Guardians, and their families, and advocate for strong national defense.
• Community Connection: Fosters a sense of community among those passionate about or involved with the U.S. Air Force and Space Force.

Social Media Presence

AFA maintains an active presence on several social media platforms:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AFA.ORG
• X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AFA_Air_Space
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/air-space-forces-association/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afa_air_space/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AirSpaceForcesAssociation

Organizational Relationships

• Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies: While part of AFA, it operates as a distinct research arm, providing specialized analysis.
• U.S. Air Force & U.S. Space Force: AFA works closely with but is independent from the Department of the Air Force (which includes both the USAF and USSF). Its primary relationship is one of support, advocacy, and education on their behalf.

Summary

The Air & Space Forces Association website (afa.org) is the central online hub for an independent, non-profit organization committed to advocating for, educating about, and supporting the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, their personnel, and their families. Through its magazine, research institute (Mitchell Institute), events, and membership programs, the site serves as a vital resource for news, analysis, community engagement, and advocacy related to American air and space power.