U.S. Air Force Birthday

The U.S. Air Force Birthday on September 18 marks the National Security Act of 1947, which established the Air Force as a separate service. It is a service birthday, not a federal paid holiday.

Air ForceSeptembermilitaryUnited States

U.S. Air Force Birthday - The U.S. Air Force Birthday on September 18 marks the National Security Act of 1947, which established the Air Force as a separate service. It is a service birthday, not a federal paid holiday.

About U.S. Air Force Birthday

History & origins

The National Security Act of 1947 created the United States Air Force as an independent service. The Air Force marks September 18 as its birthday. POW/MIA Day can fall the same week; they remain different observances.

Why it matters

The date is institutional history for one service branch.

How to celebrate

If you have an Air Force connection, mark the birthday quietly. Civilians can read 1947 service history. It is not an air-show requirement.

Facts

The U.S. Air Force dates its origin to September 18, 1947
It became independent from the Army Air Forces
The birthday is not a federal day off

Upcoming dates

Friday, September 18, 2026
Saturday, September 18, 2027
Monday, September 18, 2028
Tuesday, September 18, 2029
Wednesday, September 18, 2030

Frequently asked questions

When is U.S. Air Force Birthday in 2026?

U.S. Air Force Birthday in 2026 falls on Friday, September 18, 2026.

What happened in 1947?

The Air Force became a separate service.

Is it a federal holiday?

No.

How do you mark it?

Service birthday customs, not a public festival requirement.

Help others discover this day by sharing it.

Explore more

Full calendar More Holiday days All categories Home

Related days

Labor Day

Celebrate the contributions of workers and the labor movement on Labor Day! This federal holiday honors the achievements of American workers and their role in building the nation's strength and prosperity. From its origins in the labor movement to modern celebrations, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and recognizes the dignity of work.

Independence Day

Celebrate America's birthday on Independence Day! This patriotic federal holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, marking the birth of the United States of America. From fireworks and parades to barbecues and family gatherings, join in celebrating freedom, democracy, and the American spirit.

National Gold Star Mother's Day

Honor the mothers who have lost children serving in the US military on National Gold Star Mother's Day. This solemn observance recognizes their sacrifice and provides support to families who have given so much for our country.

National V-J Day

National V-J Day on September 2 marks Japan’s formal surrender in 1945, ending World War II. The United States also remembers August 14, 1945, when the surrender was announced; this page follows the September 2 formal-surrender date used in the fill list.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday in September — September 18 in 2026 — for prisoners of war and those still missing. The black-and-white flag is the usual symbol. It is not a paid federal holiday.