The U.S. Space Force, established on December 20, 2019, celebrated its 5th birthday with a small event at the Pentagon. Chief of Space Operations, Gen B. Chance Saltzman, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the Space Force in its first five years, highlighting the growth and achievements of the newest military service branch. Since its inception, the Space Force has seen an increase in budget, personnel, and fielded service components to combatant commands. It has also revamped its professional military education and officer training programs with plans to do the same for enlisted personnel.
Operationally, the Space Force has made significant strides in supporting space launches, sharing situational awareness data with foreign nations, and providing position navigation and timing services to GPS users worldwide. The Space Force has connected over 100,000 active satellite communications users, deployed electronic warfare capabilities to multiple nations, and tracked numerous space launches and objects. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, who assumed his role in July 2021, has overseen the Space Force during much of its existence, emphasizing the importance of building a combat force with the capability to dominate in space.
Kendall acknowledged that while other issues have taken precedence during his tenure, the importance of space has always been at the forefront. He commended the Space Force for building a unique culture and developing warfighting capabilities to enable the joint force to carry out its missions effectively. As the Space Force continues to evolve, Kendall expressed confidence in the team of guardians and their ability to be a decisive advantage for the United States in deterring adversaries and, if necessary, defeating them. The Space Force has been working towards creating a new culture that embodies its unique combination of technologies and people.
During the birthday celebration, Saltzman, Space Force Spc. 3 Caden Dedenbach, Kendall, and Space Force Chief Master Sgt. Amber Abramowski cut a Space Force birthday cake to mark the occasion. The event served as a moment of reflection on the accomplishments of the Space Force in its first five years and highlighted the ongoing efforts to further develop and strengthen the newest military service branch. With a focus on building warfighting capabilities, developing a unique culture, and continuing to expand its operations, the Space Force aims to be a significant asset in defending U.S. interests in space and beyond.
