Global Vigilance
By Michael T, Period 5
Top of the Chain
The United States of America, the world's most powerful country. Have you ever pondered why or how the U.S. remains at the top? Two words; military, and innovation.
Taking a more narrow look at the military, you might think of the Marines as the greatest and strongest branch. Yes, they are, but today we are going to take a look at the most underestimated branch: The U.S. Air Force.
Enlisting
Now, notice how I said underestimated, The Air Force is actually the hardest branch to enlist in. To become an officer, you need to take at least four of the following tests: 1) Arithmetic Reasoning, 2) General Science, 3) Word Knowledge, 4) Paragraph Comprehension, 5) Mathematics Knowledge, 6) Electronics Comprehension, 7) Auto Shop & Information, or 8) Mechanical Comprehension. This shows that the U.S. Air Force only accepts the most willing to strive for dominance and success.
History
The Air Force began as a subdivision of the Army and wasn't official until 1920. It wasn't until after WWII that the Air Force was recognized as a military branch.
Technology
"The United States does not reveal all of it's technology from it's military forces, but there are exceptions. The Air Force owns some next-generation weaponry and technology, one of which is the F-22 Raptor. The Aircraft combines stealth design with the supersonic, highly maneuverable, dual engine, long range requirements of an air-to-air fighter and will have and inherent air-to-ground capability. The F-22's integrated avionics gives it first-shot first-kill capability that will guarantee the United States Air Dominance for the next forty years." -Air Force
Ranks
There are twelve ranks of officer in the Air Force. The third rank, Captain, can be achieved by spending at least four years in the AFA (Air Force Academy). The first rank is Second Lieutenant. As you make your way up the scale, your salary increases. The ultimate rank, General of the Air Force, is only achieved through hard work and dedication.
Basic Training
Now, before you dedicate your life to the military, you must not forget one important obstacle; boot camp, the infamous training of our country's greatest men and women. You are going to find that basic training is both physically and mentally demanding, Cadets spend eight and a half weeks at boot camp, and each week covers different skills. The Lackland Air Force Base is located in San Antonio, Texas, which will be a shock to those who are not familiar with high temperatures. Basic Military Training will help those people acclimate to the "rough" climate. During graduation week (the last week of training), you will be able to enjoy the attractions that San Antonio has to offer.
Technology
"The United States does not reveal all of it's technology from it's military forces, but there are exceptions. The Air Force owns some next-generation weaponry and technology, one of which is the F-22 Raptor. The Aircraft combines stealth design with the supersonic, highly maneuverable, dual engine, long range requirements of an air-to-air fighter and will have and inherent air-to-ground capability. The F-22's integrated avionics gives it first-shot first-kill capability that will guarantee the United States Air Dominance for the next forty years." -Air Force
Today, the Air Force focuses on three things: Global Vigilance, Reach, and Power.
Bibliography
Works Cited
"F-22 Raptor." F-22 Raptor. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Nov. 2014.
"United States Air Force - Airforce.com." United States Air Force - Airforce.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2014.