U.S. Air Force Veteran
Branch
U.S. Air Force
Service Years
1976 - 1982
3rd Air Force
U.S. Air Force
The 3rd Air Force (3 AF) is a numbered air force of the United States Air Force, currently headquartered at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Activated in 1942, it originally trained aircrews and provided air defense for the southeastern United States during World War II. After the war, the 3rd Air Force was reactivated in Europe, where it played a vital role in supporting U.S. and NATO operations during the Cold War and beyond. Today, the 3 AF oversees U.S. Air Force operations across Europe and Africa, ensuring rapid response and readiness in support of U.S. and allied interests.

USAF
U.S. Air Force
The United States Air Force (USAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the United States Armed Forces. It is responsible for air defense, air support, and aerospace operations. The USAF was officially established as a separate branch of the military in 1947, but its roots can be traced back to the formation of the Aeronautical Division of the U.S. Signal Corps in 1907. The USAF has a global presence, with bases and operations in countries around the world to protect U.S. interests and provide support to allies.