Upcoming AFA Mitchell Institute Forum to feature 18th USAF Chief of Staff General T. Michael Moseley (Ret)

The Mitchell Institute and the American Enterprise Institute’s Marilyn Ware Center for Security Studies will discuss airpower’s role in an increasingly uncertain world.

• WHO: 18th USAF Chief of Staff General T. Michael Moseley (Ret) (bio).
• WHAT: Airpower’s unique role in an uncertain world.
• WHY: Whether considering the impact of sequestration, demands associated with sustaining combat operations and challenges involved with building the future force—the men and women of the US Air Force face an exceedingly difficult set of circumstances. General Moseley will discuss these variables in the strategic context of airpower’s role in empowering America’s global priorities in an effective, sustainable fashion. 
• WHEN: Thursday, December 5, 2013 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 
• WHERE: Sheraton Pentagon City, 900 S Orme St, Arlington, Va, 22204

All Mitchell Hours are free to the public. To register for this event, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mitchell-hour-december-5th-tickets-9531847011. For additional information, contact Doug Birkey at dbirkey@afa.org.


ABOUT THE MITCHELL INSTITUTE FOR AIRPOWER STUDIES:
The Mitchell Institute for Airpower Studies is an independent, non-profit research, studies, and analysis organization founded by the Air Force Association. It takes its name from America’s most famous and arguably greatest airman, Brig. Gen. William Mitchell. The Institute seeks to carry on, in the modern day, General Mitchell’s tireless and dedicated effort to expand airpower thinking and increase public awareness of the need for this unique military instrument. For more information, visit http://www.afa.org/mitchellinstitute.

AFA Sends Letter to Senate Armed Services Committee over Military Justice Improvement Act

The Air Force Association has joined fellow military organizations in opposition of the provisions of S.967, “The Military Justice Improvement Act of 2013”. A letter was sent to the offices of the Honorable Carl Levin (MI), Chairman, Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC); the Honorable James Inhofe (OK), Ranking Member, SASC and the members of the SASC earlier this week.

AFA and its peer organizations believe that the proposed changes to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) will negatively affect a commanding officer’s ability to protect their Airmen. This proposed change poses a threat to our national security by compromising a commander’s ability to maintain good order and discipline in his or her command, and could potentially result in fewer prosecutions and convictions of sexual misconduct.

The letter was signed by AFA’s Chairman of the Board George Muellner, a retired Air Force lieutenant general, as well as over 100 general officers and five former Chief Master Sergeants of the USAF.

“The key to stopping sexual assault in the military is holding commanders at all levels accountable for their command climate,” said Muellner. “Stripping away UCMJ authority from commanders would deprive them of the necessary leadership role that accountability demands of leaders.”

The full text of the letter can be found on the AFA website, and will be considered as the Senate debate of the FY14 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) continues, along with similar letters of retired officers gathered by the Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) and the Association of the United States Army (AUSA).

Top 5 Reasons to Attend AFA's Pacific Air & Space Symposium

The Air Force Association's 2013 Pacific Air & Space Symposium is just one week away; it will take place November 21-22, 2013, at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles. The two-day event will feature forums, panels, and plenty of opportunities to network with the Air Force's most influential leaders and experts.

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Attend:

1. Great Speakers: We have invited multiple speakers from around the Air Force, industry, and government. As always, our national symposiums attract the top echelon of USAF senior management and commanders, the aerospace community and academia.
2. Current topics: This annual symposium focuses on the global role of the Air Force in the world today and will cover an array of topics, including Airmen in the Rebalance, Space Command Update, the Future of Air & Space Operations in the Pacific, and Space Resilience Moving Forward. As the national strategy calls for a rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region, this conference will address some of the challenges associated with it.
3. Air Force Ball: The annual ball on November 22nd is a grand night with awards including the Schriever Fellowship and the Thomas D. White Award. The evening's program entertainment includes a band and lots of fun!
4. Free for Military Members: All military members on Active Duty and DoD civilian personnel can attend the symposium free of charge.
5. Supported by the Air Force: The Air Force has given official approval of attendance to the symposium. Please see the full statement below.

It's not too late to register! Register today to avoid the long lines at the symposium.

Conference Approval Statement
"Official Air Force participation in the AFA-hosted Pacific Air and Space Symposium, 21-22 Nov 13, is approved with the following caveats:

Personnel outside the greater Los Angeles area who may be considering spending TDY funds to attend this conference must remember that FY14 Spending Control Actions and AF Sequester Guidance regarding TDY travel remains in effect and that all travel must be assessed and appropriately approved as "mission critical". Invited speakers are authorized to attend at AF expense.

For personnel inside the greater Los Angeles area, supervisors may approve attendance subject to workload and mission requirements, and if approved, attendance should be at no cost to the Air Force."

Air Force Wounded Warrior Office and Air Force Association Announce New Partnership

Air Force senior leaders, Wounded Warriors, and Air Force Association staff met during an AFA-hosted Warrior Mixer in Colorado Springs on October 30, 2013. Daniel Ginsberg, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, and AFA's Executive Vice President retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Richard Newton, presented a joint memorandum of understanding regarding AFA's Wounded Airman Program (WAP). The new agreement gives AFA access to work with the Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) office to directly support Airmen and meet their family needs beyond what the Air Force can currently provide.

WAP will provide specialized equipment, financial aid, and other quality of life assistance to Airmen throughout the various stages of their service. Moving forward, AFA plans to utilize its nation-wide network of chapters and members to raise money and awareness to fulfill the needs of our Wounded Airmen.

The Warrior Mixer was held during an adaptive sports camp at the Air Force Academy, in conjunction with Corona, which is a biannual meeting of 4 star generals. Lt. Col. Susan Black, chief of the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program opened the evening, and was followed by the MOU announcement, as well as testimonials from warriors who have been involved in the program and now serve as mentors. One of these was MSgt Christopher Aguilera, to whom AFA presented a sports-equipped wheelchair for the 2012 Warrior Games.

General Newton addressed the crowd, thanking the local AFA Lance P. Sijan Chapter for their support of the program, recognizing the resilience of the Warriors and their caregivers, and the work of AFW2. “This MOU is an important document—symbolic of our commitment to caring for all Airmen and their families. It is our turn to serve the Airmen who have put themselves in harm’s way to fight and win our Nation’s wars. AFA is here to step up as the Force looks for ways to be more efficient and innovative at a smaller scale, while maintaining airpower superiority. It is our duty to step in and provide services where we can, and we are here for you: the warriors, caretakers, and families.” Newton closed by calling Mrs. Paula Roy, AFA’s Director of Airmen and Family Programs, to the front to surprise SrA August O’Niell with an adapted handcycle to continue his training and recovery at home. 

Lt Gen Newton, Marsha Gonzales, SrA August O'Niell, Paula Roy, Lt Col Susan Black, and Dave Shiller pose after surprising O'Neil with a recumbent handcycle at the MOU announcement.

"What an amazing evening! The Air Force Association announced the signing of the MOU with the Air Force pledging to support ‘care beyond care’ for our Wounded Airmen who have given so much,” said Roy. “I will never forget the look on SrA O'Niell's face when I announced that AFA would be presenting him with an adaptive hand cycle to aid in his rehabilitation. I felt so humbled to be with our Wounded Warriors! They are an inspiration to everyone!"

To learn more about the program, or to donate to the cause, visit: http://www.afa.org/AFA/InformationFor/Military/AFP/WoundedAirmanProgram.

The Air Force Association Honors WWII Doolittle Raiders

The World War II Doolittle Tokyo Raiders were honored this weekend with a final toast at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The ceremony was attended by three of the four living Raiders: retired Lt. Col. Richard “Dick” E. Cole, retired Lt. Col. Edward J. Saylor, and retired Staff Sgt David J. Thatcher. The Air Force Association was privileged to be one of the sponsors of the event.

On April 18, 1942, 80 men led by then-Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle flew 16 B-25 bombers on a secret mission to raid Japan in retaliation for the attack on Pearl Harbor. The group, later dubbed the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders, succeeded in the first air raid strike on the Japanese Home Islands and revitalized American morale by showcasing Japanese vulnerabilities.

AFA’s current President, retired Gen. Craig McKinley, and former AFA Chairman of the Board retired Col. Joe Sutter attended the invite-only ceremony, along with Acting Air Force Secretary Eric Fanning and Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh.

“AFA is honored to have had the opportunity to be a part of this monumental moment in airpower history,” said McKinley. “The men on stage were part of an extraordinary mission in the darkest days following Pearl Harbor when U.S. morale was at its lowest. They took the battle to the enemy and gave us hope. They are indeed a part of the greatest generation and we owe them our deepest gratitude.” 

“This final roll call gave a poignant reminder that the decision to do the final toast now was certainly a wise one. We will not have these heroes with us much longer,” said Sutter. “The Tokyo raid was not only a turning point of the war in the Pacific, but also a critical milestone in airpower history, demonstrating the impact of strategic bombing. Jimmy Doolittle went on to found the Air Force Association, ensuring the lessons of airpower are not forgotten. We continue to honor his legacy and the memory of his Raiders.”

In 1947, Jimmy Doolittle became the first elected leader of the Air Force Association, an organization he helped create in order to advocate for a separate United States Air Force service. His statue graces the entrance of the AFA building in Rosslyn, Va. AFA honored the Doolittle Raiders with their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009. 

For more information on this past weekend’s event, read the in more depth article from Air Force Magazine.

The Doolittle Tokyo Raiders after sharing their last and final toast at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Nov. 09, 2013 in Dayton, Ohio.(U.S. Air Force photo/Desiree N. Palacios)

AFA Honors Veterans and Their Legacy of Service

Each year, the nation devotes this day to honoring its Veterans and their service to our country. AFA salutes the heroism of the generations of men and women who’ve sacrificed to protect our freedoms. 

This day was first proclaimed as Armistice Day, commemorating the signing of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year. It was designated to honor those who fought in what was to be the “war to end all wars.” In 1954, Congress changed it to honor all American Veterans, to include those who fought in the wars that followed.

Millions have displayed noble service as part of the U.S. armed forces, maintaining constant vigilance defending America. Our Airmen, along with Soldiers, Sailors and Marines, continue to remain focused on missions around the world. On this day of celebration and reflection, we thank everyone who has worn a U.S. military uniform – past and present – for their honorable commitment.

AFA believes the nation should always make it a priority to recognize and honor its military members for their selfless service, which is why this Association will always advocate on behalf of veterans and the benefits earned through years of sacrifice and service. We commend their display of courage, we value their reliability and allegiance, and we honor their memories. The men and women of the U.S. Military have freely chosen to protect us all, and we are forever indebted. We use this holiday to say "thank you."

AFA EVP Testifies at Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission Hearing

On Tuesday, November 5, 2013, AFA's Executive Vice President Dick Newton testified at a hearing for the Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission. Below is his opening statement:

"Mr. Chairman and Commissioners, it is an honor to be here with you, and with my fellow colleagues. I know we are all committed to the defense of the nation, those who serve and have served, and their supporting loved ones.

"AFA supports work resulting in a compensation package for our all-volunteer force allowing us to recruit and retain the quality of Total Force Airmen our national security demands

"Our Airmen and retirees deserve every dollar they earn. However, military compensation costs continue to climb at unsustainable rates, and, if not addressed, they will consume our warfighting spending over the next few decades. We must find ways to slow the rate of growth in compensation costs."These are challenging times. The force is coming home from thirteen years of war...actually over two decades for the United States Air Force...to a nation that is struggling with pervasive financial crises. And we understand this. Yet...this nation's global national security commitments and obligations continue to increase in scope and complexity. 
"This combined with DoD's ever increasing resource constraints have brought about a new reality.

"Recognizing this environment of change, AFA seeks to join you in your efforts to find the right solutions as we examine retirement and compensation.

"We understand this Commission was formed to address rising personnel costs in a defense budget in which readiness and modernization accounts are under intense pressure. More importantly, we should not break faith with our Active Duty, Air National Guard, Reserves and family members, and grandfather in all who have served.

"We need bold leadership to make tough choices through an informed decision-making process. Timely and accurate data via surveys will be required to discover what today’s service members value, and where we may find innovative ways to meet their needs."AFA urges a whole-of-government approach where an enterprise-level, broad-based, human capital focus is the starting point for reform. Congress should be just as diligent examining the entire federal employment and benefits system as it is focused on our men and women in uniform.

"However, with last year's grounding of 13 combat squadrons, lost opportunities for real-world training and numerous course cancellations, our Air Force is at a crossroads. We are at a place where we must decide what kind of Air Force we need to fight and win our nation’s wars. Do we want to retain an Air Force that continues to be second-to-none? Sending Airmen to battle without the best training and equipment we can give them could imperil the mission and jeopardize lives. This is why our work here today is important. No matter how these issues play out, we at AFA want to be a part of the solution, and we welcome this discussion.

"AFA, its members, stakeholders and, indeed our Airmen, are committed to keeping faith with the American people, by providing them with an Air Force that is capable, ready and resourced appropriately for the future.

"I look forward to your questions."

For more information on AFA's stance on this topic, contact AFA's Director of Government Relations Kristine Robbins at krobbins@afa.org. and visit http://www.mcrmc.gov/.

Registration for CyberPatriot VI Closes With Over 1,500 Teams in All 50 States

The Air Force Association announced today that CyberPatriot, the National Youth Cyber Defense Competition, has drawn 1,566 teams for its sixth season of competition, representing a nearly 30% growth from last year. This year, teams represent all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, and U.S. Department of Defense Dependent Schools in Germany, Italy, The Republic of Korea, and Japan.

New to the competition this year is a middle school division featuring 69 middle school teams from 23 states. This new pilot track is being offered in response to an increase in interest among younger students in the cybersecurity and STEM fields. 

Teams are now gearing up for the first online round of competition, which will be held November 15-17.This round uses the CyberPatriot Competition System developed by the Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS) at the University of Texas at San Antonio, to allow hundreds of teams to compete at the same time. During the round, teams compete online to identify and solve vulnerabilities in simulated computer networks. Combined scores from this round and a second online round in December will determine which teams advance to the Semifinals where they will have a chance to win all-expenses-paid trips to the National Finals Competition in Washington, D.C. in March 2014.

For teams not advancing to the CyberPatriot National Finals Competition, a state and regional recognition round will be held to determine top teams in each area that were not national finalists. The Regional Recognition Round will be powered by Leidos’ CyberNEXS.

“CyberPatriot is the nation’s largest and fastest growing youth cybersecurity challenge,” said Bernie Skoch, CyberPatriot Commissioner. “Its unique structure allows us to provide a hands-on learning environment that engages students in the curriculum and excites them through the element of competition. We are particularly excited this year to bring personal and professional growth for middle school participants by teaching them technical skills as well as the value of teamwork, leadership, and critical-thinking, right alongside high school students.”

CyberPatriot is presented by the Northrop Grumman Foundation, with founding partners SAIC and the CIAS at the University of Texas-San Antonio. Other sponsors include Cyber Diamond Sponsors AT&T Federal, Cisco, Microsoft, Raytheon, USA Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Office of the Secretary of Defense; Cyber Gold Sponsors URS, Splunk, and Symantec; and Cyber Silver Sponsors Air Force Research Laboratory, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Leidos, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, and University of Maryland University College. 

More information is available at www.uscyberpatriot.org or from the CyberPatriot staff at info@uscyberpatriot.org.

Upcoming AFA Mitchell Institute Forum: The Department of Defense in an Era of Constrained Budgets: Smaller and Less Capable is Not the Only Option

The Mitchell Institute will discuss a concept known as the Macgregor Transformation Model--an approach that promises a reduction in the overall size of the Department of Defense; a substantial reduction in operating costs; and an increase in combat capability.

WHO: Retired Navy Admiral Mark Fitzgerald, retired Air Force Lieutenant General David Deptula, and retired Army Colonel Douglas Macgregor.

WHAT: Discussion of operational innovation in a constrained budget environment. 

WHY: As sequestration erodes military readiness, eliminates weapon systems, and reduces personnel, the Services need to consider organizational change. Preserving the status quo with fewer assets will result in significantly reduced combat capability - a risky proposition given the burgeoning array of challenges America faces around the globe. Our panel will discuss an alternate path forward through the lens of the Macgregor Transformation Model (MTM) - an approach that allows for a reduction in the overall size of the Department of Defense; affords a substantial reduction in operating costs; and yields an increase in combat capability.

WHEN: Tuesday, November 19, 2013 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. 

WHERE: Capitol Hill Club

300 First St SE, Washington, D.C. 20003

All Mitchell Hours are free to the public. To register for this event, go to http://19novembermitchellhour.eventbrite.com/. For additional information, contact Doug Birkey at dbirkey@afa.org. 

ABOUT THE MITCHELL INSTITUTE FOR AIRPOWER STUDIES:
The Mitchell Institute for Airpower Studies is an independent, non-profit research, studies, and analysis organization founded by the Air Force Association. It takes its name from America’s most famous and arguably greatest airman, Brig. Gen. William Mitchell. The Institute seeks to carry on, in the modern day, General Mitchell’s tireless and dedicated effort to expand airpower thinking and increase public awareness of the need for this unique military instrument. For more information, visit http://www.afa.org/mitchellinstitute.

Acting Secretary of the Air Force to Speak at November 18th AFA Air Force Breakfast

The Air Force Association is proud to announce an upcoming AFA Air Force Breakfast featuring guest speaker Eric Fanning, Acting Secretary of the Air Force. The event will be held on Monday, November 18, 2013 at 7:00 a.m. at the Key Bridge Marriott in Arlington, Virginia.

Eric Fanning is the Acting Secretary of the Air Force, Washington, D.C. He was confirmed as the 24th Under Secretary of the Air Force on April 18, 2013, and began to serve in the additional role of Acting Secretary of the Air Force June 21, 2013. He is responsible for the affairs of the Department of the Air Force, including the organizing, training, equipping and providing for the welfare of its more than 333,000 men and women on active duty, 178,000 members of the Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve, 182,000 civilians, and their families. He also oversees the Air Force's annual budget of more than $110 billion. For Mr. Fanning’s full bio, visit the USAF website.

AFA’s AF Breakfast Program is a monthly series that provides a venue for senior Air Force and Department of Defense leaders to communicate directly with the public and the press. Past speakers include Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Mark A. Welsh, former Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley; Dr. Jamie M. Morin, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller; and Gen. William Shelton, Commander, Air Force Space Command.

Please register online at https://afanovbkfstseries.eventbrite.com/. For additional information, contact Mary Ellen Dobrowolski at mdobrowolski@afa.org.

The Key Bridge Marriott is located at 1401 Lee Highway Arlington, Virginia 22201.

Planning Underway for Spirit of '45! Flyover

Planning is underway for a national flyover in the summer of 2015 that will be held in honor of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. AFA is a proud partner in this planning effort, and we look forward to participating in the celebration of our heritage. The official countdown to the event will begin with a press conference on December 20, 2013 at Chennault Aviation & Military Museum in Monroe, La.

For more information on the Spirit of '45! event, please refer to this message to supporters from Jerry Yellin, a pilot during WWII and national spokesman for the cause:

I am writing to invite you and your colleagues to participate in a national flyover to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II that is being planned for the summer of 2015. 

The purpose of the flyover is to remind America of the pivotal role that air-power played in defending democracy and freedom in the world during the most destructive war in history, and to inspire the public to assure that the Warbird’s of WWII continue to be a source of education and inspiration for future generations, especially the youth of our country.

The flyover is scheduled to take place on the weekend of August 15 - 16, 2015, coinciding with the day the world broke into spontaneous celebrations at the news WWII had ended on August 14, 1945, and America began an unprecedented effort to build a better world for its children and their children's children. We are asking every owner to fly locally and show the public some of the airplanes that helped so much to win the war.

I am honored to have been asked by Gen. Chennault's granddaughter, Nell Calloway, to be part of a steering committee that is reaching out to organizations and individuals like you who are dedicated to keeping our WWII Warbirds "alive,” to invite you to help finalize the details for the flyover, and to help spread the word to others who may have a potential interest in participating. Among those who recently joined the committee are Bill Fisher, Executive director of Warbirds at EAA, acclaimed aerial photographer Paul Bowen, military historian and author Robert F. Dorr, Craig McKinley, president of the Air Force Association, and WWII P-51 pilot Jerry Yellin who flew on the last mission over Japan on August 14, 1945.

On December 20, 2013 members of the steering committee will officially begin the countdown to the 2015 flyover during a press conference at the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum in Chennault's hometown of Monroe, LA, a few miles from Selman Army Airfield where more than 14,000 navigators were trained during WWII.

We warmly encourage you to send a representative to be part of this kick off ceremony and, if possible consider having one of your aircraft fly in for the day. For more information or to RSVP please contact Michelle Lancaster with the Chennault Museum. Michelle can be reached by phone at (318) 366-5733 or by email at emichellelancaster@gmail.com.   

In the meantime, thank you for all that you and your team have done to preserve the legacy of American Airpower in WWII and for helping to keep these national treasures airborne.

Let's keep 'em flying into the next century! 

AFA Remembers U.S. Congressman Ike Skelton

The Air Force Association would like to express its sincere condolences on the recent passing of former U.S. congressman Ike Skelton.

Rep. Skelton served 17 terms in Congress, ultimately rising to chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. During his tenure he exhibited unwavering dedication to America’s defense and those who work to protect our nation.

He was well known and highly respected as a bipartisan negotiator and a champion of the Armed Services. He was a valued member in the community and his own profession. Our deepest sympathy is with his family and friends.

“Congressman Skelton was a champion for our men and women in uniform as well as their family members,” said Craig McKinley, AFA President. “He was the key proponent in Congress for the B-2 and the sustainment of long range bombers in general. His service to our country should be an example for all of us.”

Air Force Association’s Upcoming Conference to Offer Insight on Global Role of USAF

Register today for the Air Force Association’s 2013 Pacific Air & Space Symposium to hear from military leaders, senior government officials, expert researchers, and academia as they address the many challenges that the U.S. Air Force faces in its global role. 

The Symposium will be held at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel on Thursday, November 21st from 1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. and on Friday, November 22nd from 8:30 a.m. - 3:40 p.m. The annual Air Force Ball will be held Friday evening at 8:00 p.m. following a reception at 6:30 p.m.

This year’s agenda will highlight the challenges and opportunities of executing air, space, and cyber power in the Pacific and the way ahead for the Air Force. Topics covered will range from the Asian Pivot, USAF Global Posture, Pacific Airpower Resiliency, Air Force Space Command’s challenges, and more.

Confirmed Speakers Include:

• The Honorable Eric Fanning, Acting Secretary of the Air Force 
• General William Shelton, Commander, Air Force Space Command 
• General Hawk Carlisle, Commander, Pacific Air Forces 
• Lt Gen Ellen Pawlikowski, Commander, Space and Missile System Center 
• Lt Gen Andrew Busch, Vice Commander, Air Force Materiel Command 
• Dr. Gordon Chang, China Expert 
• "Panel: The Future of Air & Space Operations in the Pacific" 
• "Panel: Rebuilding Military Power in the Pacific" 
• See the full agenda online

The 2013 Pacific Air & Space Symposium is less than one month away! Please register here. Join the conversation with speakers and attendees by using our hashtag #PASS13.
Note: All military members on Active Duty and DoD civilian personnel can attend the conference free of charge.

Air Force Association and Air Force Sergeants Association to Host Veterans Day Ceremony at the Air Force Memorial

Join the Air Force Association and the Air Force Sergeants Association as they co-host a Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 11, 2013, at the Air Force Memorial.

The guest speaker for the event will be Lt. Gen. Stephen L. Hoog, Assistant Vice Chief of Staff for the USAF. Other remarks will be provided by retired Air Force Gen. John A. Shaud from AFA and retired Master Sgt. Morgan Brown from AFSA. The event is free and open to the public.

The ceremony will be held in honor of the veterans of the United States military with gratitude for their dedication, loyalty, and service to our great nation.

“Millions of men and women of the U.S. military have volunteered from generation to generation in service of our country,” said George Muellner, AFA Chairman of the Board. “We join the nation on this day in showing our appreciation for the sacrifices made in their lives to protect our freedoms.”

Directions to the Air Force Memorial may be found online at http://www.airforcememorial.org/Visit/DrivingDirections11. Parking is very limited, and metro is highly encouraged. Please review our “Special Event Transportation” and parking link at http://www.airforcememorial.org/Visit/SpecialEventTransportation for metro and trolley details.

For more information about this event, contact the Air Force Memorial office at 703.979.0674 or afmf@airforcememorial.org.

Richard Aboulafia to talk Future Aerospace Defense Industry Trends at Upcoming Mitchell Hour

The Air Force Association’s Mitchell Institute for Airpower Studies welcomes Richard Aboulafia from the Teal Group as the guest speaker for an upcoming Mitchell Hour event.

WHO: Richard Aboulafia is the Vice President of Analysis at Teal Group where he advises companies in the commercial and military aircraft fields on defense and aerospace trends. In this role, Mr. Aboulafia also writes and edits Teal Group’s World Military and Civil Aircraft Briefing, a tool that covers over 130 aircraft programs and markets. For his full bio, visit http://www.richardaboulafia.com/bio/.

WHAT: Mr. Aboulafia will be discussing how factors in the domestic and international sectors will impact prospects for the aerospace defense sector. 

WHY: Sequestration-driven budget cuts and instability within the political environment are yielding a unique set of dynamics regarding how the Armed Forces maintain, sustain, and modernize their respective weapons systems. Circumstances are also evolving rapidly in the international arena-with a handful of major acquisition competitions set to shape defense industry prospects for years into the future. These variables are yielding a time of great uncertainty for aerospace firms as they try and posture for future success.

WHEN: Thursday, October 24, 2013 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Key Bridge Marriott 

      1401 Lee Hwy 

                Arlington, Va. 22209 

All Mitchell Hours are free to the public. To register for this event, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/event/8877722507. For additional information, contact Doug Birkey at dbirkey@afa.org. 

ABOUT THE MITCHELL INSTITUTE FOR AIRPOWER STUDIES:The Mitchell Institute for Airpower Studies is an independent, non-profit research, studies, and analysis organization founded by the Air Force Association. It takes its name from America’s most famous and arguably greatest airman, Brig. Gen. William Mitchell. The Institute seeks to carry on, in the modern day, General Mitchell’s tireless and dedicated effort to expand airpower thinking and increase public awareness of the need for this unique military instrument. For more information, visit http://www.afa.org/mitchellinstitute.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the USAF for Energy to Speak at October AFA Air Force Breakfast

The Air Force Association is pleased to announce that with the furloughs over and the government re-opened, it will proceed with its October AFA Air Force Breakfast program featuring Dr. Kevin T. Geiss, USAF Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy. The breakfast will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2013, from 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. at the Key Bridge Marriott in Arlington, Virginia.

Dr. Geiss is responsible for providing oversight and direction for all matters pertaining to the formulation, review, and execution of plans, policies, programs, and budgets for the effective and efficient use of energy to support the global Air Force mission. Prior to this role, Dr. Geiss served as the Program Director for Energy Security with the Department of the Army from 2008-2010 where he addressed power and energy issues for the facilities and installations domain, weapon systems, and contingency operations.

AFA’s Breakfast Program is a monthly series that provides a venue for senior Air Force and Department of Defense leaders to communicate directly with the public and the press. Past speakers include Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Mark A. Welsh, former Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley; Dr. Jamie M. Morin, Acting Under Secretary of the Air Force; and Dr. Mark T. Maybury, former Chief Scientist of the Air Force.

Please register online at http://afaoctbkfstseries.eventbrite.com/. For additional information, contact Mary Ellen Doborowlski at mdoborowski@afa.org.

The Key Bridge Marriott is located at 1401 Lee Highway Arlington, Virginia 22201.

Visit the Official Online Store for AFA, Air Force Memorial, and CyberPatriot Merchandise!

The Hangar is the official online merchandise and apparel store of the Air Force Association, Air Force Memorial, and CyberPatriot. Check out the high quality apparel and accessories featuring your choice of the three organization's logos.

Items in the store range from outerwear, polos, t-shirts, and hats to golf club covers and other accessories. The Hangar is a great place to pick up gifts for friends, family members, or chapter members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Many of the apparel items can be ordered with additional embroidered personalization, such as "National Treasurer" or "Big Sky Chapter President" under the logo. Visit the online store today and show your pride in your AFA membership, the Air Force Memorial, and CyberPatriot.

  

AFA's Pacific Air & Space Symposium Proceeding as Scheduled

The Air Force Association's 2013 Pacific Air & Space Symposium is proceeding as planned. The symposium will be held November 21-22, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, CA.

This year is sure to be another fantastic event with dialog from Air Force senior management and commanders, the aerospace community, and academia.

Confirmed Speakers Include:

• The Honorable Eric Fanning, Acting Secretary of the Air Force
• General William Shelton, Commander, Air Force Space Command
• General Hawk Carlisle, Commander, Pacific Air Forces
• Lt Gen Ellen Pawlikowski, Commander, Space and Missile System Center
• Lt Gen Andrew Busch, Vice Commander, Air Force Materiel Command
• Dr. Gordon Chang, China Expert
• "Panel: The Future of Air & Space Operations in the Pacific"
• "Panel: Rebuilding Military Power in the Pacific"
• See the full agenda online

Please register for the symposium and reserve your hotel room today. To ensure you get AFA's discounted room rate or the government per diem rate for those that qualify, please book your reservation on AFA's registration site by October 28, 2013.

Note: All military members on Active Duty and DoD civilian personnel can attend the symposium free of charge.

AFA Awards the 2013 Capt. Jodi Callahan Memorial Graduate Scholarship

The Air Force Association (AFA) today announced the selection of Air Force Staff Sergeant Rebecca Allard as the recipient of the 2013 Captain Jodi Callahan Memorial Graduate Scholarship.

Sergeant Allard is pursuing her Master’s of Business Administration at Baker University. She graduated from Airman Leadership School (ALS) with the Distinguished Graduate Award for having the highest scores in the class. She also received her Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) as an Airman First Class in 2008 and received her bachelor’s degree in May 2011 as a Senior Airman. Her future plans are to become an ALS instructor. She also plans to apply for the Medical Service Corp.

AFA awards the $1,000 Callahan Memorial Scholarship annually to a deserving Air Force active duty, full time Guard, or Reserve Airman pursuing a non-technical master’s degree.

Captain Jodi Callahan was an AFA National Director and a Trustee of the Aerospace Education Foundation. She had been a life member of AFA. This scholarship is made possible due to the generous donations of her family and friends through the Jodi Callahan Memorial Fund.

“The Air Force Association is proud to support Sergeant Allard as she continues to excel in her academic career,” said George Muellner, AFA Chairman of the Board. “Encouraging Airmen to pursue higher education goals is critical to maintaining the security of our nation in the 21st century.”

“Jodi was extremely focused and dedicated to her studies. We aim to honor Jodi’s legacy by helping support Airmen who share academic goals similar to those she pursued. Sergeant Allard is an exceptional candidate and we are proud to support her,” said the Callahan Family.

“We are proud of Sergeant Allard’s accomplishments thus far, and we look forward to watching her continue to succeed in her professional and academic careers,” said Craig McKinley, AFA President.
AFA offers a number of scholarships to qualified students. For more information on AFA’s scholarship programs, visit the website or contact Lynette Cross at (703) 247 – 5800 or lcross@afa.org.

AFA's CyberPatriot Program Receives Support from the Department of Homeland Security

AFA's CyberPatriot program announced today a new sponsorship from the Department of Homeland Security at the Cyber Diamond level. With the support of DHS, CyberPatriot will continue its growth as the National Youth Cyber Education Program.

Registration for the sixth CyberPatriot competition season closes on October 10, 2013. With over 1,200 teams registered in all fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, and DoD schools in Japan, South Korea, Germany, and Italy, CyberPatriot VI is shaping up to be another season of growth and excitement. This season of the CyberPatriot National Cyber Defense Competition will also serve as a pilot program for 100 middle school teams to test their cyber skills.

“Thanks to the support of the Department of Homeland Security and our other sponsors, CyberPatriot continues to extend the reach of its program to new schools and regions across the country,” said Bernie Skoch, CyberPatriot Commissioner. “We are committed to increasing the diversity of our teams by focusing our recruitment efforts on females and underrepresented minorities. The mission of our program is to inspire our younger generations to explore cybersecurity and STEM fields in their academic and professional careers, and we look forward to working with DHS to continue our efforts.”

"We understand that one of the key security challenges facing leaders now and into the future will be training a robust workforce with the technical skills to protect the nation's infrastructure," said Mr. Robin “Montana” Williams, Branch Chief – Cybersecurity Education & Awareness at US Department of Homeland Security. "DHS is committed to helping students succeed in school, their careers, and in life. With that in mind, we are pleased to provide the assistance to contribute to the excitement and momentum of CyberPatriot as it makes a significant and positive impact on the future of cybersecurity."

CyberPatriot is presented by the Northrop Grumman Foundation, with founding partners SAIC and the CIAS at the University of Texas-San Antonio. Other sponsors include Cyber Diamond Sponsors AT&T Federal, Cisco, Microsoft, Raytheon, and USA Today; Cyber Gold Sponsors URS, Splunk, and Symantec; and Cyber Silver Sponsors Air Force Research Laboratory, Embry-Riddle University, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, and University of Maryland University College.
More information is available at www.uscyberpatriot.org or from the CyberPatriot staff at info@uscyberpatriot.org. Be sure to register your team before the October 10th deadline to be a part of CyberPatriot VI!

Digital Crime Scene Challenge to Return to CyberPatriot VI National Finals Competition

The Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot program announced today the return of the Digital Crime Scene Challenge to its National Finals Competition. This addition to the competition has been made possible by eventPower and the U.S. Cyber Crime Conference.

During the National Finals Competition of CyberPatriot VI, 26 teams will compete in a dynamic forensics exercise that will put competitors’ cyber skills to the test. These students will get experience in the exciting field of cyber forensics through the application of crime scene analysis, evidence gathering, and critical thinking. The cyber crime scene had been a component of CyberPatriot until last year’s sequestration forced its removal from the competition. The U.S. Cyber Crime Conference will be held in the VA/DC/MD area in the spring of 2014.Established by the Air Force Association (AFA), CyberPatriot is the nation's largest and fastest growing high school cybersecurity challenge. Its unique structure provides students with hands-on learning while competing virtually against their peers and introduces many young people to the idea of cybersecurity as a profession. The competition also joins schools across the nation in efforts to bolster student interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) studies.
Teams will begin competing in the competition's preliminary online rounds of competition in October, where they must identify vulnerabilities in simulated computer networks and work to defend those networks from realistic threat scenarios. This year, over 1,000 teams will compete from in all 50states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, and DoD schools in Japan, South Korea, and Germany. The competition consists of three rounds that will ultimately determine the 26 finalist teams who win all-expenses-paid trips to the National Finals Competition in Washington, D.C. in March 2014.

"This competition is about academic growth and teaching beyond the fundamental curriculums found in schools," said Bernie Skoch, CyberPatriot Commissioner. "The addition of cyber forensics adds an exciting element of education to the competition and allows these high school students to get exposure to another fascinating aspect of cybersecurity. We are enormously grateful to Special Agent (Retired) Jim Christy and the U.S. Cyber Crime Conference for their generous support in returning a valued element of our National Finals Competition."

CyberPatriot is presented by the Northrop Grumman Foundation, with founding partners SAIC and the CIAS at the University of Texas-San Antonio. Other sponsors include Cyber Diamond Sponsors AT&T Federal, Cisco, Microsoft, Raytheon, and USA Today; Cyber Gold Sponsors URS, Splunk, and Symantec; and Cyber Silver Sponsors Air Force Research Laboratory, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, University of Maryland University College, and Embry-Riddle University.

More information is available at www.uscyberpatriot.org or from the CyberPatriot staff at info@uscyberpatriot.org. Register your team before the October 10th deadline to be a part of CyberPatriot VI!

The Latest from AFA's Government Relations Department

Kristine Robbins, AFA's Director of Government Relations, recently sent out this update on the latest Air Force news from D.C:

SecAF Nomination Held Up
Senator Kelly Ayotte , R-NH, has placed a hold on Air Force Secretary nominee Deborah James, expressing concern over unofficial news the Air Force may be looking to cut the fleet in the FY15 budget.

Ayotte's husband flew the A-10 in Iraq with the Air National Guard, and has said the hold will stand until she gets answers about Air Force planning for the A-10, and what would replace it.

Government Shutdown?

Congress has yet to approve a FY 2014 budget, is running out of time to pass even a continuing resolution, and if it does not, the government will run out of money and "shutdown" at midnight, Sept 30.

DoD employees who are considered vital to national security, public safety, health and welfare would still be called to work — about 1.3 million civilian employees and 1.4 million in the military.

If a shutdown lasts less than two weeks, these folks will still receive their paychecks on time. If it lasts longer, they will continue to work, but will not receive their pay until Congress acts. Furloughed civilians will not necessarily receive back pay for their missed days, as again, Congress would have to agree to do so. Let's remember almost half of the federal workforce has already been forced to take several furlough days this year due to sequestration, and federal employees are also in the third year of a pay freeze.

TDYs not directly in support of essential activities will be cancelled, and PCSs underway will be completed. Education and training will be limited. On bases, TRICARE, inpatient, acute and ER care will continue in medical/dental facilities, but all other services could be limited or closed.Military retiree and survivors benefits are not dependent on regular appropriations, so monthly checks are not affected by a government shutdown. VA Healthcare and other services will also not be affected.

Make Cuts Smartly…
A new report out from the Stimson Center, a nonpartisan think tank, recommends how DoD should cut the $50 billion per year required by current law. Their recommendations fall into three broad categories:

• $22.4 billion in management reforms, (including reforming military retirement and health benefits.)
• $21.4 billion in changes to force structure.
• $5.7 billion in reduced modernization costs.

The authors, among them a former CSAF, two former vice chairmen of the joint chiefs and a former Navy chief, acknowledge none of these recommendations are easily accomplished, but address the difficult choices. This report will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing dialogue on how to deal with fiscal realities. Click here to view the report.

Air Force Association Announces the 2013 Ferretti Scholarship Recipient

The Air Force Association (AFA) today announced Brianna Bowen of Gilmanton Ironworks, New Hampshire, as the 2013 recipient of the Lt Col (Ret) Romeo and Josephine Bass Ferretti Scholarship.

This year, the scholarship provided Ms. Bowen with $5,000 towards continuing her education at Keene State College in Biology and Pre-med studies. In high school, she participated in Student Council and was a member of the National Honor Society. Ms. Bowen was also the President of the Prom Committee, Editor of the Yearbook Committee, Manager of the Varsity Soccer team, and a New Hampshire State Scholar. This summer she was accepted into St. Paul’s School Advanced Studies Program to study Biomedical Ethics for six weeks at a college level.

“We are excited about Ms. Bowen’s academic future and we are honored to be able to help support her educational pursuits,” said Lew Ferretti, executor of the estate of the late Lt Col Romeo Ferretti and Josephine Bass Ferretti. “She continues to be an example of a motivated student who is dedicated to succeeding in a variety of areas. Her commitment to her education makes her a deserving recipient of this scholarship.”

This scholarship is made possible by a remarkable endowment that was established through a bequest of the late Lt Col Ferretti of Bourne, MA, and a personal gift from the late Mrs. Ferretti. The $250,000 endowment from the Ferretti estate, managed by Amy Mowbray and Col Lew Ferretti, USMCR (Ret), makes possible a yearly scholarship to minor dependents of active duty or retired Air Force, Air Force Reserve, or Air National Guard enlisted Airmen with consideration of both merit and need. The first scholarships were distributed in 2007.

“College expenses continue to increase each year, which can deter students from pursuing higher education goals,” said Amy Mowbray. “Ms. Bowen’s enthusiasm for academic growth proves that this scholarship will truly serve as an investment in a bright student’s future.”

The late Lt Col Ferretti and his late wife were long time supporters of AFA and advocates of education. Lt Col Ferretti served in the Air Force for more than 23 years, beginning in World War II with the Army Air Corps where he volunteered for flight training. He went on to fly in the P-61 Black Widow night-fighter. On Easter Sunday in 1945, he was shot down over enemy territory, but was able to parachute to safety and evade capture. After retirement in 1966, he became a stockbroker and financial planner.

Mrs. Ferretti was a secondary and high school teacher and retired after 30 years of teaching. While she and her husband were stationed at MacDill AFB, Florida, she taught Airmen from the base their General Education Degree program requirements as well as other courses. She said the reason for the scholarship fund is for children of Airmen, noting her husband Romeo did not have the money available to attend college and wanted to see more children have that opportunity. Originally from Opelika, Alabama, Mrs. Ferretti and her late husband had called Tampa, Florida, their home.

“The Ferretti Scholarship is one of the many programs that allows AFA to support students as they continue on the path to academic excellence,” said Jerry White, AFA’s Vice Chairman of the Board for Aerospace Education. “AFA genuinely appreciates the great generosity of the Ferretti’s, and their vision for establishing this longstanding support system for our young people.”
For more information on other AFA scholarship programs, visit http://www.afa.org/AFA/InformationFor/Military/Scholarships, or contact Lynette Cross at 703-247-5800 Ext 4807 or LCross@afa.org.

Air Force Community Gathers for Annual AFA Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition

The Air Force Association (AFA) held their annual National Convention on September 14th and 15th prior to the Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition, the convention included 201 registered delegates from 41 state delegations.

In alignment with its mission to educate, advocate and support, AFA approved a Statement of Policy and Top Issues for 2013.

The following National Officers were elected or reelected for one year terms:

• George K. Muellner (Huntington Beach, CA) – second term Chairman of the Board
• Scott P. Van Cleef (Fincastle, VA) – second term Vice Chairman of the Board, Field Operations
• Jerry E. White (Colorado Springs, CO) – second term Vice Chairman of the Board, Aerospace Education
• Marvin L. “Marv” Tooman (Des Moines, IA) – first term National Secretary
• Leonard R. “Len” Vernamonti (Clinton, MS) – fourth term National Treasurer

The following National Directors were elected for three-year terms

• David Dietsch (Arlington, TX) – Central Area Director 
• Peter Jones (Potomac Falls, VA) – Director At-large
• Dave Warner (Colorado Springs, CO) – Director At-large

The following Region Presidents were elected or reelected by the delegates from their region at the Annual Convention for one year terms:

• Gavin “Mac” MacAloon (Central East)
• Wayne Kaufman (Far West)
• Dann Mattiza (Florida - reelected)
• Kent Owsley (Great Lakes - reelected)
• John Daly (Midwest - reelected)
• Ron Adams (New England)
• Jim Simons (North Central - reelected)
• Maxine Rauch (Northeast)
• Mary Mayer (Northwest - reelected)
• Gayle White (Rocky Mountain - reelected)
• Jim Mungenast (South Central)
• John Allen (Southeast - reelected)
• Ross Lampert (Southwest)
• Riq Baldwin (Texoma)

Parliamentarian: Buck Buckwalter
Credentials Committee: Mark Tarpley, Chair, OK; Geri Sutter, TN; Karel Toohey, NM; and Sharon White, CO.
Inspectors of Election: Buck Buckwalter, Chair, TX; George Castle, AZ; and Bush Hanson, SC.

Following the National Convention, AFA held its annual Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition, which hosted more than 6,000 attendees over the three-day event, 55 speaker sessions, 91 exhibitor booths, and 35,500 square feet of exhibit space.

Speaker highlights from this year’s conference included Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning, Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Welsh, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James Cody, many of the MAJCOM commanders, and a number of other active and retired Air Force officials and civilian industry leaders. Topics discussed ranged from the KC-46 and F-35 programs, to defense budget challenges, cyber defense, and more. To listen to the audio from the speaker sessions and to reference speaker slides, visit our conference website at www.afa.org/airspaceconf.

Over 170 people registered to attend AFA’s Spouse and Family Forum, a day-long event that covered a variety of issues facing our military families today. Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning, Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Welsh, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James Cody, Lt Gen Darrell Jones plus many other Air Force leaders and their spouses supported the event. Keynote speakers from the event included Mrs. Betty Welsh, Mrs. Athena Cody, Mrs. Holly Petraeus, and author Debbie Fink.

Additionally, AFA rolled out their new Corporate Membership Program on Wednesday, September 18th, to over 200 prospective and current corporate member companies. The new program consists of three tiers of membership for businesses of all sizes, and aims to increase partnerships with companies in order to spread the mission of AFA.

“AFA is proud to bring another successful event to a close and grateful for the opportunity to engage with military, government, and industry members in an effort to spread its mission to educate, advocate, and support on behalf of the United States Air Force,” said George Muellner, AFA Chairman of the Board. “The work we do continues to be valued by the Air Force and reaffirms the need for airpower as a part of a strong national defense. We look forward to continuing our efforts in support of our Airmen and their families.”

“We were also honored to be able to recognize our 2013 Outstanding Airmen of the Year at various points throughout the conference,” said Muellner. “These men and women exemplify the best of the best, and we are proud of their dedication to excellence in service.”
The 2014 Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition will be held September 15-17, 2014. For more information on how you can be involved with AFA throughout the year, visit www.afa.org.

“Three Tiers, More Opportunities” - AFA Announces Their New Corporate Membership Program

The Air Force Association is proud to announce a new Corporate Membership program in order to increase partnerships between AFA and companies in support of the Total Air Force Family. This new initiative will offer three levels of membership for large and small businesses that will provide a variety of new benefits for companies and their employees.

Tier 1, the Small Business Program, consists of two levels for companies to qualify, commensurate with their size. In this program, companies receive the benefits of individual AFA memberships, eligibility to exhibit at AFA conferences and symposia, and invitations for one member to attend special events. Tier 2, the Corporate Program, includes the benefits of Tier 1 in addition to eligibility to sponsor AFA programs, a feature profile in Air Force Magazine, logo placement on the AFA website, and the opportunity to distribute company literature at AFA events. Tier 3, the Premium Corporate Program, provides the benefits of Tier 2 plus more visibility opportunities on AFA’s digital outlets, advertising discounts, eligibility to be named Corporate Partner of the Year, and invitations to more exclusive AFA events.

All Corporate Members will receive the Daily Report and AFA updates, as well as first access to reports from AFA’s Mitchell Institute for Airpower Studies. Corporate Members will also be listed on AFA’s website and in AFA’s corporate directory, the Air Force Magazine, and AFA’s annual report. For more of a breakdown on the specific details of the benefits provided in each tier, visit the new Corporate Membership website at www.afa.org/CorporateMember.

“This new tier structure offers smaller businesses the opportunity to engage with AFA, attend its events and network with larger prime contractors. Larger non-defense/aerospace companies have a business to consumer interest with AFA, and in addition to events would also enjoy the benefits of being able to engage with our chapters. Our traditional and current members are offered exclusive incentives, enhanced benefits and more opportunities to deepen their partnership with AFA,” said Larry Dilworth, AFA’s Vice President for Development & Marketing. “We look forward to working with an increasingly broader base of companies in support of the United States Air Force.”

The new AFA Corporate Membership Program will kickoff next Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at AFA’s Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition with a Welcome Session for prospective companies. Welcome Session attendees will attend the conference’s keynote speaker session, tour the exhibit floor, and hear from AFA representatives about the benefits of the new program. 

AFA currently has 109 businesses in its Corporate Member program, with the goal of increasing this number threefold over the next two years. To become an AFA Corporate Member, fill out the secure form online or contact Mary Ellen Dobrowolski, Director of Industry Relations at mdobrowolski@afa.org.

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Acquisition Integration to Speak at Upcoming AFA Air Force Breakfast

The Air Force Association is proud to welcome Mr. Richard W. Lombardi, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Acquisition Integration, as the guest speaker for the September AFA Air Force Breakfast. The breakfast will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2013, from 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. at the Key Bridge Marriott in Arlington, Virginia.

Mr. Lombardi manages the acquisition staff organization charged with planning, managing and analyzing the Air Force's research and development, and acquisition investment budget. In this role, he oversees the integration of research, development, and acquisition budget formulation and execution, and directs streamlined management team activities, including Air Force acquisition reform and reduction in total ownership cost efforts.

In addition, he is a member of the Air Force Board, Air Force Budget Review Group, Defense Acquisition History Team and HQ Resource Allocation Process Integrated Process Team. He serves as Chief of Staff for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition and the Program Executive Officer Organization, and is responsible for operations support for the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition.

AFA’s Breakfast Program is a monthly series that provides a venue for senior Air Force and Department of Defense leaders to communicate directly with the public and the press. Past speakers include Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Mark A. Welsh, former Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley;; Dr. Jamie M. Morin, Acting Under Secretary of the Air Force; and Dr. Mark T. Maybury, former Chief Scientist of the Air Force.

Please register online at http://afaseptbkfstseries.eventbrite.com/. For additional information, contact Mary Ellen Doborowlski at mdoborowski@afa.org.

The Key Bridge Marriott is located at 1401 Lee Highway Arlington, Virginia 22201.

2013 Air & Space Conference Coverage

Our annual Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition was a huge success. Many thanks to our attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and the media for participating in this year's event. Below are links to coverage from the event, concluding with a link to our AFA In the News section on our main website.

• AFA President Craig McKinley  Defense News Interview the week before conference
• Monday morning interviews with conference speakers and Outstanding Airmen of the Year on WTOP's Federal News Radio
• "Enlisted Perspective" - CMSAF James A. Cody
• "Future of Joint Force" - Admiral James A. Winnefeld, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
• "Air Force Update" - General Mark A. Welsh, Chief of Staff of the USAF
• "State of the Air Force" - Acting Secretary of the USAF Eric Fanning 
• Coverage by USAF: http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/AFEvents.aspx

For a full list of media coverage from the event, check out our AFA In the News area on AFA's main website: http://www.afa.org/information/media/afainthenews. Also check out the #ASC13 hashtag on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for posts, and be sure to keep an eye on #ASC14 for next year's event!

It's Not Too Late to Register for Next Week's Air & Space Conference!

It's not too late to register for next week's Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition! Hosted by the Air Force Association, this is a one-of-a-kind event that will provide attendees with access to top ranking Air Force officials, the latest in industry developments, and bestselling authors. Join over 6,500 Air Force and defense industry professionals at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center on September 16-18, 2013.

Register to attend one, two, or all three days of the conference to experience over 80 exhibitors on our 50,000 square feet of exhibit space, attend any of our 55 conference sessions, and network with colleagues at one of our receptions. Visit our website to register today and avoid the long lines next week at the hotel.

Our speakers will cover a variety of hot topics including updates from the KC-46 and F-35 programs; Long-Range Strike; the nuclear enterprise; cyber; defense budget challenges; and a look at international affairs with China, Russia, and the Middle East. Speaker highlights include:

• Acting Secretary of the Air Force, The Honorable Eric Fanning
• Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral James Winnefeld
• Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Mark Welsh
• Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, James A. Cody
• Annual Four Star Forum with the CSAF and many of the MAJCOM Commanders

The full conference agenda can be found here. AFA will also be hosting a Spouse and Family Forum on Monday, September 16, which will feature a full day of speakers, panels, resources, and discussions on issues facing Air Force families today. This event is free and open to the public, and we encourage anyone interested to registeronline in advance.

Official Air Force participation has been approved for the conference. All military members on Active Duty and DoD civilian personnel can attend the conference free of charge. Additionally, the exhibit hall is free and open to the public. Registration is required.

Free shuttles sponsored by Northrop Grumman, are available from the Pentagon, JB Andrews, JB Anacostia-Bolling and the King Street Metro stop.

Go Social! AFA is proud to announce the launch of our new conference app for your mobile devices. Visitwww.afa.org/Conf2013Mobile to access the app. Join the conversation with Air & Space Conference speakers, exhibitors, and attendees by using our hashtag#ASC13!

Conference Approval Statement:
"Official Air Force participation in the Air Force Association's Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition 2013, National Harbor, Maryland, has been approved IAW the most recent AF Sequester Guidance and the 12 Dec 12 Conference Policy Guidance.
Centralized TDY funding will be made available for winners of a limited number of awards and appointed council members. POC for centralized funding is Mr. Doug Benskin, SAF/AARA, Comm 703-695-3254, DSN 225-3254. Travel orders (using centralized funding) must be entered into DTS NLT 31 Aug 2013. Invited speakers and other individual attendees may participate in a funded TDY status only if local funding is determined to be available and appropriate; local travel approval authorities must determine whether individual participation at AF expense is mission critical IAW AF Sequestration Guidance.

For general questions about AF funded participation, call Lt Col Heather Meyer, SAF/AA, Comm 703-693-9503, DSN 223-9503."

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