The Air Force Song
Origin in the Late 1930s
1930s Air Corps Search
In the late 1930s, the Air Corps sought an official song to reflect its unique identity.
700 Compositions Reviewed
700+ Compositions
After reviewing over 700 compositions, music instructor Robert Crawford's song was a unanimous winner.
First Recording
1939 First Recording
The U.S. Army band made the first recordings of the song in 1939, titled "The U.S. Air Force".
Protocol When Played
When the AF Song Plays
According to DAFI 90-1202, when the Air Force song is played:
- Airmen will stand at attention
- Are allowed to sing the lyrics of the song
Official Events Departure Rule
Departure After First Verse
During official events, the official party may move to depart after the playing of the first verse.
Reference
Lyrics Reference
See Attachment 8, *The U.S. Air Force lyrics*, for all four verses of the song.