A crowd watches aerial demonstrations during the Arctic Thunder Open House at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 8, 2026. Held biennially by JBER, ATOH is the largest two-day event in the state and features multiple aerial demonstration teams. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Keola Vischi)
CAMERA
ILCE-7M3
LENS
FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS
APERTURE
32
SHUTTERSPEED
1/30
ISO
50
No camera details available.
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These images tell the story of a force forged in the pursuit of freedom. Across the decades captured here, Airmen have carried the nation's cause through open skies, into orbit, and across the digital frontier. Each frame is a glimpse of the dedication, courage, and skill that have defined the Department of the Air Force, from the propeller-driven pioneers of the Army Air Corps to the fifth-generation fighters and space capabilities of today. As America turns 250, this gallery honors the people and moments that have kept the promise of freedom flying.