Brothers of Alpha East:
Today, we celebrate the 78th birthday of the United States Air Force and the Air National Guard—enduring symbols of strength, innovation, and supremacy in defense of America.
For 78 years, the Air Force has ruled the skies and space with courage, technological mastery, and excellence. We honor the 422,000 Airmen serving today, including Alpha men who rise through the ranks, pioneer in their fields, and lead with discipline and distinction.
This proud tradition reaches back to Captain Wendell O. Pruitt, an Alpha Brother and Tuskegee Airman, who flew 70 combat missions and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, and Brigadier General Charles E. McGee, Tau Chapter, who flew over 400 missions in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.
Today’s leaders continue that legacy: General Charles Q. Brown Jr., Eta Upsilon, the first African American Chief of Staff of the Air Force and now Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and General Anthony J. Cotton, Eta Omicron, Commander of U.S. Strategic Command.
They embody the courage, intellect, and leadership of both Alpha Phi Alpha and the Air Force. These Brothers, and countless others, fought tyranny abroad and prejudice at home, carrying not just firepower but the banner of freedom. As we mark this milestone, let us honor their sacrifice and stand taller as Alpha men lifting communities, leading with courage, and carrying forward their legacy with pride.
Happy 78th Birthday to the United States Air Force: Aim High, Fly, Fight, Win!
Bro. Rasheen Smith
Eastern Regional Vice President
