Air Force Association conference under way

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Julie Weckerlein
  • Air Force Print News
WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  The top Air Force leaders helped kick off the Air Force Association's annual Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition here with a ceremony honoring the association's history and contributions to the service, as well as remembering those currently serving in today's force.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley attended the conference opening ceremony, with General Moseley providing a few comments to the crowd of more than a thousand Airmen, civilians and family members.

"The Air Force wouldn't be what it is today without the support of the Air Force Association," General Moseley said. He spoke about the association's history, which began in the late 1940s, and its mission to educate the public and political leaders about air power through the Air Force.

"You guys are truly the force behind the force," he said.

Several videos were shown as well, one honoring AFA's past and a viewing of an upcoming "Do Something Amazing" commercial for the Air Force.

For the next several days, participants will be able to listen to 38 speakers representing various components of air power, as well as meet in forums regarding everything from enlisted issues to a four-star general forum. Several awards will be presented throughout the week and a dinner will be held in honor of the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year.

"I look forward to the exchange of ideas here, and to your comments and questions," said General Moseley.