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

Air War over South Vietnam 1968-1975
This document examines the U.S. Air Force’s air operations over South Vietnam from 1968 to 1975, highlighting how air power was employed against enemy ground and logistical targets amid a complex counterinsurgency environment. It details mission types such as close air support, interdiction, and reconnaissance, illustrating how fighter-bombers and helicopter gunships were tasked with disrupting enemy supply lines and assisting ground troops operating under heavy anti-aircraft and small arms fire. The analysis emphasizes tactical adaptations—for example, the use of precision-guided munitions and improvements in electronic warfare—as well as challenges arising from terrain, weather, and enemy air defenses. Specific case studies and operational after-action reviews reveal insights into command decisions, aircraft performance under stress, and the evolving doctrines of air power that shaped the campaign’s overall effectiveness.

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Photo by: Bernard C. Nalty |  VIRIN: AIR_WAR_OVER_SOUTH_VIETNAM_1968-1975.PDF