History

The nearly 150,000-member Air Force Association (AFA), formed after World War II, is an independent, nonprofit, civilian organization primarily concerned with public understanding and acceptance of the pivotal role a well-manned, well-equipped and well-trained Air Force plays in the security of the nation and its allies and the relevance of overall American military strength to global peace.

National structure

AFA is led by volunteer leaders at the national, state and local levels. AFA's 47 state organizations and over 200 chapters hold their own elections and conduct programs to increase public understanding of key national security issues in their communities. Programs range from luncheon and dinner activities to symposia and legislative roundtables with Congressional leaders.

Election practice

National officers and directors are elected by convention delegates attending the annual national convention in September. Delegates are chosen at the state and chapter levels to represent AFA's varied membership in electing the national leadership and voting on AFA policies. When finally adopted at the convention, AFA policy takes the form of an overall "Statement of Policy" and Position Papers on "Force Capabilities" and "Personnel Issues."