Air Force Historical Research Agency Welcome to the Department of the Air Force (DAF) Legacy Vault

DAF Legacy Vault

We are excited to announce the development of a new digital space dedicated to showcasing the Department of the Air Force's (DAF) official archival records. This project highlights the rich and storied history of both the Air Force and Space Force, featuring historical records, artifacts, photographs, audio recordings, video documentation, and archival finding aids.

Although the page is currently under construction, our team is actively working to ensure it becomes a comprehensive and accessible resource for historians, researchers, veterans, and enthusiasts. We aim to make these valuable materials readily discoverable for those seeking insights into the DAF's contributions to our nation's history.

This initiative underscores our commitment to preserving and sharing the official ephemera of the Airmen and Guardians who have shaped the legacy of the skies and beyond. Updates will follow as the project progresses, and we look forward to unveiling more resources soon!

DAF History Publications

Airpower and the Airlift Evacuation of Kham Duc
Airpower and the Airlift Evacuation of Kham Duc is an analysis of the dramatic evacuation of Kham Duc during the Vietnam War on May 12, 1968. The book examines the coordination of airpower across multiple branches, detailing how American aircraft—including Air Force transports, helicopters, and fighter support—conducted a high-risk rescue mission under intense enemy fire. It highlights command and control challenges, heroic actions by aviators, and the strategic role of air mobility in battlefield survival. The monograph serves as a case study in the effectiveness and limitations of airpower in crisis situations, offering valuable lessons for military operations.

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Photo by: Lieutenant Colonel Alan L. Gropman |  VIRIN: EVAC_KHAMDOC.PDF