United States Army Air Forces

The United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) was the aerial warfare service component of the U.S. Army during World War II, existing from 1941 to 1947. It was responsible for all military aviation operations, including combat missions, logistics, and air support. The USAAF played a crucial role in achieving air superiority and supporting ground forces through strategic bombing, reconnaissance, and transportation. In 1947, it was reorganized into the independent United States Air Force, establishing air power as a separate branch of the U.S. military.