Heritage, Image and Identity

The heritage, image and identity of the United States Air Force (USAF) was cultivated from the heroic exploits of American aces born forged from aerial dog fights of World War I (WWI). This celebrated pilot heritage and image became ingrained as pilot exploits were heralded in the US media and the identity of the fledgling air service reached new heights. Not to be outdone, strategic bombing advocates such as General "Billy" Mitchell and "Hap" Arnold further developed USAF's identity in the quest for its independence. American pilots were held in great esteem by an admiring public, and were equally successful in dominating US military aviation leadership positions, as exemplified by General Henry "Hap" Arnold, the first Chief of the Army Air Forces and its Commanding General during World War II.