Defending Our Nation: Defending the Skies: The Air Force (PDF)

This book introduces readers to the best-equipped, most elite air force in the world and its unflagging mission to protect the citizens and interests of the United States.The U.S. Air Force (USAF) was only established in 1947—44 years after the Wright Brothers first flight; yet its aircraft, equipment, and power are unrivalled. Air National Guard squadrons monitor the skies over the United States. The USAF Space Command puts surveillance satellites into orbit around the Earth. And USAF Pacific Air Forces patrol 44 countries and over 100 million square miles of territory. Such roles demand elite personnel, and the USAF training programs for pilots and ground crew alike are among the most advanced in the world.Defending the Skies explores the USAF's origin, roles, and operations. See some of the USAF's most technologically advanced aircraft, and surveillance technology. Learn how USAF pilots train for combat and defense what it takes to join the Air Force.PUBLISHER'S NOTE: Each title in this series contains a foreword from a noted security and antiterrorism expert who has served in the FBI, Marines, and police force, color photos throughout, and back matter that includes an index, chronology, and further resource lists of books and Internet resources. Key Icons appear throughout the books in this series, encouraging library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content-rich nonfiction books. Key Icons in this series are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are set in boldfaced type in that chapter, so that readers can reference back to the definitions—building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text-Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. Educational Videos provide links via QR codes to online video content that gives a multimedia dimension to the topics. And a Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter containing terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the reader's knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.