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

Development and Employment of Fixed-Wing Gunships, 1962-1972
Lt. Col. Jack S. Ballard examines the evolution of the U.S. Air Force gunship program during the Vietnam War, tracing its development from early conceptions in the 1960s to its deployment in combat operations through 1973. The study highlights how the Air Force adapted existing aircraft to meet the unique demands of unconventional warfare, using side-mounted guns in pylon turns to provide sustained firepower for troop support, interdiction, and outpost defense. The book explores the challenges of implementation, tactical adjustments, and the role of junior officers in shaping decisions, demonstrating how theory and combat experience refined the gunship’s effectiveness. Drawing from archival research and firsthand interviews, Ballard presents a detailed analysis of one of the most innovative aerial weapons of the era.

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Photo by: Jack S. Ballard |  VIRIN: FIXEDWINGGUNSHIPS.PDF