Falcons soaring - USAFA Department of Aeronautics contributions to aerospace power during a century of manned flight

Abstract

The Department of Aeronautics (DFAN), in existence since the organization of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in 1955, has offered an accredited Aeronautical Engineering degree since 1967. DFAN has remained dedicated first and foremost to USAFA's unique and primary mission statement: To inspire and develop outstanding young men and women to become Air Force officers with knowledge, character, and discipline; motivated to lead our Air Force and nation. In the course of fulfilling this mission, cadets and faculty serving in DFAN have consistently achieved exemplary results in their military service, academic scholarship, and research during and after their USAFA attendance. This invited paper will present noteworthy contributions made by DFAN to the military and civilian aerospace community during the latter part of the century since the Wright Brother's flight in December 1903, emphasizing the current state of the department.