American Forces Network, Europe

• Origins in WWII: The American Forces Network (AFN) Europe traces its roots to 1943, when it was established to entertain and inform U.S. troops in the European Theater during World War II. • First Broadcast: AFN Europe’s very first broadcast was from London on July 4, 1943, with the call sign “The Mighty 7th Army Network.” • “GI Jive” Program: During WWII, AFN’s “GI Jive” program became famous for bringing American swing and jazz music to soldiers—and inadvertently influencing local European music tastes. • Role in Berlin Airlift: AFN played a vital role during the Berlin Airlift (1948–49), providing critical news and morale-boosting entertainment to U.S. and Allied personnel stationed in the divided city. • Cold War Impact: AFN Europe was a cultural lifeline for American families and soldiers stationed throughout Europe during the Cold War, keeping them connected with news from home. • Broadcasting from the Eiffel Tower: For a brief period after WWII, AFN Paris transmitted from the Eiffel Tower, making it one of the most iconic broadcast locations in history. • “Music for the Troops”: AFN introduced countless European listeners to American artists such as Elvis Presley and The Beatles—before the Beatles became widely known in the United States. • AFN DJs as “Goodwill Ambassadors”: Broadcasters from AFN Europe often bridged cultural divides, with famous DJs like Chris Noel and Adrian Cronauer (inspiration for “Good Morning, Vietnam”) becoming household names. • Coverage of Major Events: AFN Europe has covered every major U.S. military operation and event affecting Americans in Europe since WWII, including the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. • Modern Multi-Platform Operation: Today, AFN Europe provides radio, television, and digital content to U.S. personnel and their families across Europe, using cutting-edge technology to reach remote bases and deployed units.