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

Commemorating U.S. Air Force Service in Major Conflicts: The 50th Anniversary of the End of the Vietnam War (1975)
This historical overview details the final chapters of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia, focusing on the dramatic collapse of South Vietnam and Cambodia in 1975. The text examines the failure of the Paris Peace Accords to sustain a ceasefire, leading to a rapid North Vietnamese offensive that overwhelmed the South’s military forces. Central to the narrative is the logistical complexity of Operations Eagle Pull and Frequent Wind, which utilized Air Force and Marine assets to evacuate thousands under increasingly hostile conditions. The sources highlight the friction between diplomatic officials and military planners, specifically noting how Ambassador Graham Martin’s delays exacerbated the chaos during the fall of Saigon. Beyond the tactical evacuations, the documents chronicle humanitarian efforts like Operation Babylift and the subsequent relocation of over 130,000 refugees to the United States. Ultimately, the material serves as a tragic record of the withdrawal, illustrating the end of a twenty-five-year military commitment.

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Photo by: Kenneth H. Williams |  VIRIN: VIETNAM_WITHDRAWAL_WILLIAMS.PDF